Washington Commanders Continue To Build The Offensive Line, Take Josh Conerly Jr. With 29th Pick

The Washington Commanders head into the 2025 season with high expectations. They made a surprise run to the NFC Championship Game on the back of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. In the offseason, they made it clear that the priority was to protect their franchise quarterback. They traded for Laremy Tunsil, adding an All-Pro talent to protect Daniels. In the NFL Draft, they continued to build the line. With the 29th pick, the Commanders selected Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr.

Washington Commanders Select OT Josh Conerly Jr.

The Washington Commanders hope they have the tackle positions cemented for 2025. While the offensive line wasn’t horrible last season, it also wasn’t elite. Daniels had to do his share of running around. He is an elite runner, but last year we saw what he can do from the pocket as well. His accuracy was on display last year, and with the addition of Deebo Samuel, there will be plenty of weapons to throw the ball to.

Conerly Jr. was a part of an offensive line that made Dillon Gabriel a Heisman candidate. While the line faltered against the Ohio State line in the playoff, this group was elite all year. He showed elite potential in the running game and passing game, and is a perfect addition to a team that is starting to overflow with talent.

Final Thoughts

Washington Commanders fans have to be happy. For the first time in a long time, they are not dependent on their first-round pick being the savior of their franchise. The Eagles have shown the league that building the trenches is the way to win championships. If the Commanders are going to knock off the defending champs, they have to protect the quarterback. Will this pick help solidify the line for their star quarterback?