Commanders draft Peyton Bowen
- Safety | Oklahoma Sooners
- Round No. 5 | Pick No. 154
While the Washington Commanders have found something in free-agent signing Nick Cross, they could use another safety to mold into a capable performer. Several players in the defensive backfield are either underperforming or out of contract next spring, so this is a problem that must be addressed.
Signing another free agent is feasible, but the Commanders also need to find someone in the draft. And if Adam Peters waits until the mid-rounds, Peyton Bowen is an option to consider.
Bowen is a fluid mover. Even though he doesn't have elite-level explosiveness, it's enough. His tackling technique is sound, but the lack of legitimate size could see his stock fall.
Commanders draft Wendell Gregory
- Edge Rusher | Kansas State Wildcats
- Round No. 5 | Pick No. 178
The Commanders are generating more pressure under Daronte Jones. But as for their long-term plan? They only have Odafe Oweh and Joshua Josephs under contract beyond 2026.
K'Lavon Chaisson could get another deal, but it's still up in the air. Dorance Armstrong Jr. is in a similar situation, so the Commanders may need to explore options in the draft.
They could select an edge rusher higher than this, but if Adam Peters decides to wait, Wendell Gregory could be a late-round gem with the potential to become a key rotational presence with some extra refinement.
Gregory already has 8.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks on the year. He's a little undersized, but he's got the versatility Jones loves, and his motor is relentless.
Commanders draft Mike Matthews
- Wide Receiver | Tennessee Volunteers
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 188
Nothing should prevent the Commanders from double-dipping at receiver during the draft. As mentioned, Washington has future concerns at the position, and Adam Peters won't miss it.
Mike Matthews is an intriguing prospect. The Tennessee standout is once again putting up solid numbers, with his fluid routes and ability after the catch representing a real asset. And even though he is not the most dynamic athlete, he has more than enough to build a successful NFL career.
Expecting miracles right away wouldn't be smart, but Matthews' ceiling is relatively high if he lands in the right fit.
Commanders draft Elijah Paige
- Offensive Tackle | USC Trojans
- Round No. 6 | Pick No. 197
Losing five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil to a torn triceps exposed the Commanders' lack of offensive tackle depth. Brandon Coleman is filling in on the blindside, but he is much better suited to the interior. After that, it's Andrew Wylie, whose struggles are well documented when on an island.
This has to be addressed. Maybe not early in the draft, but certainly at some stage with a strong development project that could become something more.
Elijah Paige is a physically imposing figure at 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds. He's got technical work to do, but the athletic upside is off the charts if he puts it all together.
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