Washington commanders’ 2025 NFL Draft Needs: Prioritizing Defense
Following a surprising and successful 2024 season, teh Washington Commanders are looking to solidify their position as NFC contenders in the 2025 NFL Draft. While their offense appears potent, the team’s focus will likely be on bolstering a defense that showed vulnerabilities despite improvements. With five picks in the upcoming draft, including the 29th overall selection, the Commanders aim to address key defensive needs and build a lasting winning formula.
Apr 25, 2024; Detroit, MI, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels is selected as the No. 2 pick in the first round by the washington Commanders during the 2024 NFL Draft at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Commanders’ Draft capital
- First Round Pick: 29th overall
- Total Number of Picks: 5 (29, 61, 128, 205, 245)
Primary Need: Edge Rusher
The departure of Dante Fowler Jr. in free agency creates a pressing need for an impactful edge rusher. Despite recording 10.5 sacks, Fowler’s absence leaves a void in Washington’s pass rush. Although the Commanders had the 5th-best pass defense in 2024, they allowed an average of 23 points per game, indicating room for improvement. the team also struggled against the run, ranking among the league’s worst. Addressing both these issues is crucial for the upcoming season.
Potential targets for the Commanders at pick 29 include Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College and James Pearce Jr. from Tennessee. both players are projected to be selected in the late first round and could immediately contribute to washington’s defensive front.
The commanders have already been active in free agency, adding defensive tackles Javon Kinlaw, Eddie Goldman, and Deatrich Wise to reinforce the defensive line.
Other Potential Needs
While the Commanders’ offense is well-stocked,solidifying the defense remains paramount. Addressing positions such as linebacker, defensive end, cornerback, or safety would be sensible moves for Washington in the draft.
Unlike the defensive line, these positions haven’t seen important additions through free agency. Furthermore, injecting competition and depth at cornerback and safety is crucial to prepare against potential injuries and improve overall performance. Given the depth of defensive talent in the 2025 Draft, the Commanders have an prospect to significantly upgrade their defense.
Looking ahead, the Commanders must also consider the future, especially given the age of key players like linebacker Bobby wagner (34 years old) and several veteran defensive ends. Improving run defense remains a priority for head coach Dan Quinn. To sustain their success, Washington needs to proactively plan for the future and develop their next generation of defensive leaders.
PAA Question 2: What are the potential risks and rewards of focusing heavily on edge rushers in the 2025 draft,given the team’s need for depth at other defensive positions?
Washington Commanders’ 2025 NFL Draft Needs: Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the Commanders’ defense a priority in the 2025 draft,even after a prosperous 2024 season?
A: While the Commanders’ offense looks promising,their defense showed vulnerabilities,especially against the run and in pass rush. They allowed an average of 23 points per game, indicating a need for improvement to compete at the highest level. Addressing these weaknesses is seen as critical for sustained success.
Q: What are the Commanders’ draft picks in 2025?
A: The Commanders have five draft picks:
- First Round: 29th overall
- Second Round: 61st overall
- Fourth Round: 128th overall
- Sixth round: 205th overall
- Seventh Round: 245th overall
Q: What is the Commanders’ biggest need heading into the draft?
A: Edge rusher is the primary need. The departure of Dante fowler Jr. leaves a significant void in their pass rush, despite the team’s strong pass defense ranking. The Commanders are expected to prioritize this position, especially after Dante Fowler Jr.’s departure.
Q: Who are some potential edge rusher targets for the Commanders?
A: Some potential targets include Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College and james Pearce Jr. from Tennessee. Both are projected to be available in the late first round, making them realistic options for the Commanders.
Q: Besides edge rusher, what other defensive positions might the Commanders address?
A: The Commanders may also target a linebacker, defensive end, cornerback, or safety. Reinforcing these positions, and adding competition and depth, is seen as crucial to improve the defense.
Q: How has free agency impacted the Commanders’ defensive needs?
A: The Commanders have signed defensive tackles Javon Kinlaw, eddie goldman, and Deatrich Wise, addressing some needs on the defensive line. Though, other positions, such as linebacker, cornerback, and safety, haven’t seen major additions, highlighting the draft’s importance for filling these gaps.
Q: Why is it significant for the Commanders to think about the future when drafting this year?
A: key players like linebacker Bobby Wagner are aging, and the team needs to develop the next generation of defensive leaders. Improving run defense is a priority for head coach Dan Quinn, necessitating proactive planning and progress.
Q: What is the takeaway from the Commanders’ draft strategy?
A: The Commanders aim to build a lasting winning formula by focusing on defense, particularly edge rushers, while also considering long-term needs.
Intrigued by the Commanders’ draft strategy? Keep an eye on the 2025 NFL Draft to see how they bolster their defense and build on their recent success!
