• Commanders prioritized protecting Jayden Daniels by drafting OT Josh Conerly Jr., despite existing needs at edge rusher.
• Drafted CB Trey Amos in the second round, seen as a potential Day One starter and a significant upgrade to the secondary.
• Team focused on best available talent over specific positional needs, trusting their draft board and valuing competition.

The Washington Commanders approached the 2025 NFL Draft aiming to improve their roster, particularly focusing on protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels and bolstering the defense. Despite a perceived need for an edge rusher, the Commanders prioritized offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round and cornerback Trey Amos in the second, emphasizing best available talent and long-term team building. The draft also included additions to the wide receiver and linebacker positions, indicating a comprehensive approach to roster construction under the new regime.

• What: The Washington Commanders executed their 2025 NFL Draft, selecting players to address both immediate needs and long-term development.
• Who: Key individuals involved include General Manager Adam Peters, Head Coach Dan Quinn, and draft picks Josh Conerly Jr., Trey Amos, Jaylin Lane, Kain Medrano, and Jacorey Croskey-Merritt.
• When: The 2025 NFL Draft took place over three days, concluding on April 30, 2025.
• Where: The draft selections impact the Washington Commanders, a team based in Washington D.C.

The Commanders' draft strategy reflects a commitment to building a well-rounded team. Prioritizing offensive line protection for Jayden Daniels demonstrates an understanding of the importance of quarterback development. The selection of Trey Amos addresses a need in the secondary and adds a physical presence to the defense. Despite not drafting an edge rusher, the team expresses confidence in its existing defensive line and emphasizes the importance of competition. The focus on athleticism and potential in later-round picks like Jaylin Lane and Kain Medrano suggests a forward-thinking approach to roster construction.

"It wasn't, 'We weren't going to address edge at any point.' There were never any conversations of that mindset. It was, 'These players made the most sense for us.'"

"He's a press corner who can be really physical to the line of scrimmage, but he is also a guy who can really play in any scheme you want. And I think that's what separates him from a lot of different guys."

"I had [Trey] Amos as a Round 1 possibility to the Commanders in my final mock draft because of their need for a physical press cornerback. Instead, they were able to get him at the end of Round 2. Amos' ability to win at the line of scrimmage and be physical will allow him to shine opposite Marshon Lattimore."

The Washington Commanders' 2025 NFL Draft focused on building a strong foundation on both sides of the ball. By prioritizing offensive line protection and adding talent to the secondary, the team aims to support Jayden Daniels and improve their overall defensive performance. While the lack of an edge rusher selection may raise concerns, the Commanders express confidence in their existing players and emphasize the importance of competition. The draft reflects a strategic approach to roster construction, prioritizing best available talent and long-term team building.