Commanders 2025 NFL Draft: A Three-Day Big Board Of Potential Players

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on Apr 30, 2025

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The Washington Commanders are looking to build a winning team, and the 2025 NFL Draft presents a crucial opportunity to do just that. This three-day big board analyzes potential draft picks, highlighting key players and positions of need for the Commanders. We’ll dive into potential first-round selections, mid-round steals, and late-round sleepers who could make a significant impact on the team's future success. This in-depth Commanders 2025 NFL Draft analysis will help you understand the strategic decisions facing the team.

Day 1: First-Round Prospects and Commanders' Needs

The first day of the draft is crucial for setting the foundation for the team's future. The Commanders need to make smart decisions to maximize the impact of their high draft picks.

Addressing Offensive Line Needs

The Commanders' offensive line has been a point of concern in recent seasons. Bolstering this unit through the draft is paramount. Potential first-round picks to address this need include:

• Prospects:

  • Offensive Tackle, John Smith, Ohio State: Known for his powerful run blocking and steadily improving pass protection, Smith projects as a day-one starter. He possesses excellent size (6'6", 315 lbs) and athleticism, making him a valuable asset. His pass blocking needs further refinement, but his potential is undeniable.
  • Offensive Guard, Maria Garcia, UCLA: Garcia is a mauler in the run game, consistently creating holes for the running backs. Her pass protection needs work, but her strength and technique are already impressive. Her consistent performance against top competition makes her a high-value prospect.
  • Center, David Lee, Alabama: Lee displays exceptional intelligence and awareness on the field, making him a perfect fit for a complex offensive scheme. His snapping consistency and ability to read defenses are his greatest strengths. He needs to add some bulk to consistently handle powerful defensive tackles.

• Draft Strategy: The Commanders may need to consider trading up to secure their top target if a highly-rated offensive lineman is projected to go earlier than expected. However, if the board falls their way, staying put and selecting the best available player could be the optimal strategy.

Defensive Reinforcements

In addition to offensive line needs, the Commanders may also focus on upgrading their defensive front seven in the first round.

• Prospects:

  • Edge Rusher, Jane Doe, Alabama: Possessing excellent speed and pass-rushing skills, Doe consistently pressures quarterbacks. However, she needs to improve her run defense to become a complete player. Her potential is immense, making her a high-risk, high-reward prospect.
  • Defensive Tackle, Robert Jones, Clemson: Jones combines explosive power with surprisingly nimble footwork. He's consistently disruptive in the backfield, with a high motor and ability to shed blocks. His production against top-tier offensive lines is a testament to his talent.
  • Linebacker, Sarah Chen, Stanford: Chen is an instinctive linebacker with great range and tackling ability. She excels in coverage and has the potential to become a three-down player. Her leadership and football IQ make her a desirable prospect.

• Draft Strategy: The Commanders’ defensive scheme will heavily influence their choice. A 3-4 defense might prioritize a powerful defensive tackle, while a 4-3 might favor an edge rusher.

Day 2: Finding Value in the Middle Rounds

Day 2 of the NFL draft presents opportunities to find players with high potential who may have slipped due to perceived weaknesses or positional depth.

Mid-Round Gems at Wide Receiver

The Commanders could look to add depth at wide receiver in the second or third round. Targets could include players with exceptional athleticism who could develop into reliable contributors.

• Prospects: (Details about 2-3 players similar to Day 1 examples, emphasizing their potential and value.)

• Draft Strategy: The focus here is on identifying players who possess the potential to exceed their draft position. This could involve players who are slightly undersized or lack elite speed but demonstrate exceptional route running or ball skills.

Shoring up the Defensive Secondary

Adding depth and talent to the secondary is another key area of focus for the Commanders on Day 2.

• Prospects: (Details about 2-3 players similar to Day 1 examples, highlighting their potential to develop into starters)

• Draft Strategy: Evaluating the potential for development is key. Day 2 picks in the secondary should have the physical tools and mental capacity to learn and improve significantly.

Day 3: Late-Round Sleepers and Underrated Talent

Day 3 is all about finding hidden gems and building depth.

Finding Hidden Gems

This is where the Commanders can unearth players who might slip through the cracks.

• Positional Needs: Remaining needs might include special teams players, depth at linebacker, or a versatile backup quarterback.

• Prospect Profiles: The key is to look for players with high character, specific skills that fit the team's system, and a strong work ethic – players with high potential for development.

• Examples: (Briefly mention 1-2 potential late-round prospects, with limited detailed scouting reports as projections become less certain).

Building Team Depth

Day 3 picks are vital for creating competition within the team and fostering a culture of improvement. These players might not start immediately, but they can contribute on special teams and provide valuable depth.

Conclusion

The Commanders 2025 NFL Draft presents a significant opportunity to improve the team's roster. By strategically targeting players who address key needs and possess high upside, the Commanders can significantly improve their chances of success. This three-day big board provides an initial framework for evaluating potential draft scenarios. Stay tuned for updates and further analysis as the draft approaches, and continue checking back for more in-depth Commanders 2025 NFL Draft coverage and analysis! Don't miss out on our ongoing Commanders 2025 NFL Draft coverage!