The 2025 NFL Draft season is officially underway, and for Washington Commanders fans, it’s time to dive deep into the team’s potential selections. While trades could shake things up, this mock draft sticks to the basics—selecting players in each round without any trade maneuvering. Here’s a look at the players who could help shape the future of the Commanders franchise.
Round 1: Josh Conerly Jr. – Offensive Tackle (Oregon)
Offensive tackle remains a high-value position, and securing a dominant presence in the trenches should be a priority for Washington. Conerly, a standout at Oregon, is an elite pass protector with impressive footwork, great athleticism, and strong hand placement. His ability to handle speed rushers makes him an ideal candidate for the Commanders’ offensive line.
What makes Conerly particularly intriguing is his effectiveness in space. With Washington’s offensive coordinator Cliff Kingsbury favoring screen plays, Conerly’s ability to get downfield and block defenders efficiently is a perfect fit for the scheme. However, he does have areas for improvement—he’s slightly undersized at 6’4″, 315 pounds, and his anchor strength needs work. If he can add muscle and refine his strength, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Commanders’ offensive line.
Round 2: Landon Jackson – Edge Rusher (Arkansas)
Building a strong defensive front is crucial, and Arkansas’ Landon Jackson offers an ideal combination of size and power. At 6’7″, 280 pounds, Jackson is a dominant run defender who sets the edge exceptionally well. While he lacks elite pass-rushing explosiveness, his ability to control the line of scrimmage could help Washington shore up their run defense.
Given head coach Dan Quinn’s defensive approach, Jackson’s physicality and motor make him an excellent fit. He may not be the most fluid athlete, but his raw strength and high motor compensate for any lack of quickness. Pairing him with an elite pass rusher like Myles Garrett (if acquired) would provide a formidable one-two punch on the defensive front.
Round 3: Azareyeh Thomas – Cornerback (Florida State)
In the third round, the Commanders address their secondary with Florida State cornerback Azareyeh Thomas. Thomas has the size, length, and physicality needed to thrive in man-to-man coverage. His experience in Florida State’s press-heavy defense translates well to the NFL, making him an ideal fit for Joe Whitt Jr.’s defensive philosophy.
Thomas does have limited experience at the position, as he transitioned from offense earlier in his career. However, his natural athleticism and instincts make him a high-upside pick. If available in the third round, Washington should not hesitate to pull the trigger.
Round 4: Jaylin Noel – Wide Receiver (Iowa State)
Wide receiver depth is always a need, and Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel brings strong route-running ability and playmaking potential. While he lacks elite size, his quickness and hands make him a reliable target in short and intermediate passing situations. If he can refine his game, Noel could develop into a key contributor in Washington’s receiving corps.
Final Thoughts
This mock draft prioritizes trench play, defensive improvements, and adding offensive weapons. While additional moves in free agency could shift Washington’s draft priorities, these selections provide a strong foundation for the team’s future success. Who would you pick for the Commanders in Round 1? Let us know in the comments!
