The Washington Commanders are on a miraculous playoff run this season. The franchise would like to land more talented prospects to their roster for another impressive season next year. Let's look at what PFN predicted in their most recent 7-round mock.
The Denver Broncos finished last season as the No. 1 defense in PFSN’s Defense+ metric and had a strong free agency period, but they just got even better by landing Jahdae Barron at No. 20 overall. The Jim Thorpe Award winner was the 13th-ranked prospect on PFSN’s Big Board, so getting him here was great value. Barron can play safety, nickel, or boundary CB, and his versatility is no accident. It’s a product of his energized athleticism, smooth fluidity, swivel flexibility, elite processing ability, and unhinged two-phase proactivity. While he was a successful playmaker on the outside, Barron projects best as a slot defender due to a lack of length. Nevertheless, Barron can be a dynamic and, at times, dominant slot defender in an era where slot defenders are valued more and more. He should immediately compete with Ja’Quan McMillian for the Broncos’ starting nickelback spot.
Strong is a perfect Quinn cornerback. He’s comfortable in off man and is a wonderful Cover 3 boundary cornerback. He has a knack for sliding around pass-catchers on in-breaking routes to break up passes and he consistently maintains over-the-top leverage, making him a safe player on the boundary.
The Miami Dolphins and Jevon Holland parted ways this offseason, meaning there are some unanswered questions at safety. Jaylen Reed is a versatile player who can operate in multiple roles. He played against top competition, and his combination of physicality and instincts could allow him to see the field in Year 1.
At 6’5″, 260 pounds, Evans has size, play strength, and power as a run blocker. The biggest question he’ll face is if he’s rebounded from a torn ACL and MCL in 2023. He’s not a dynamic athlete, which will cap his ceiling, but he’s fluid enough to separate. Evans is a sound blocker with elite hands and nuanced separating skills as a receiver. This would be a quality addition in the middle rounds.
Jack Nelson is a skilled offensive lineman with excellent footwork . He has refined hand usage in pass protection. Nelson adjusts aiming points effectively, covering targets and fitting blocks. His quickness helps him counter inside moves and secure the backside on outside zone plays. In pass protection, he transitions smoothly into his anchor to neutralize bull rushes.
The Colorado WR had a mediocre 2024 season due to several injuries. In the Week 11 game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, he suffered a lower body injury. It almost kept him out for the game until his regular season technically ended. Despite these setbacks, he recorded 434 yards for 33 receptions and a touchdown. He is eligible for the upcoming draft. If he is medically fit, the former Seminole High standout could be an explosive weapon on offense due to his insane athleticism.
Jahvaree Ritzie is a defensive lineman for the North Carolina Tar Heels. His physicality and leverage at the point of attack allows him to effectively bull-rushes opponents. Ritzie has demonstrated versatility, contributing both as a defensive tackle and defensive end. In the 2024 season opener against Minnesota, he recorded a career-high three sacks, showcasing his pass-rushing capabilities. His consistent performance has garnered attention from NFL scouts, positioning him as a promising prospect for the upcoming draft.
In a more high-volume passing attack, the 6’5″ tight end would likely see more targets going his way. The Irish are no stranger to producing tight ends that make an impact at the next level. Evans logged 43 receptions for 421 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 9.8 yards per catch this past season.
