Four first-round offensive options for Commanders
The Commanders' best bet in the NFL Draft's first round is to address the defensive backfield, their most pressing need. Should they go for offense with the 16th overall pick, here are impact players who would fill major needs on that side of the ball:
Michael Mayer, tight end, Notre Dame
Tight end is the biggest skill position need for the Commanders as longtime tight end Logan Thomas has had problems staying healthy. Mayer is widely the best TE in the draft and would fit well in D.C.
Mayer draws comparisons to longtime Cowboys star Jason Witten. Most mocks have him as a late first-rounder, but if Washington can't get one of its desired defensive targets, he's an intriguing option.
Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
Even after signing tackle Andrew Wylie and center Nick Gates in free agency, the Commanders need help on the offensive line. Skoronski is among the best tackles in the draft and could help turn the unit around.
Skoronski, who can play tackle and guard, ranks 10th on Mel Kiper Jr.'s big board. It seems unlikely he'll be available at 16, but if he is, Washington should take him in a heartbeat.
Darnell Wright, offensive tackle, Tennessee
Wright is more likely than Skoronski to be available when the Commanders pick (Kiper has him 24th on his big board).
Wright is praised for his size (6-foot-5 and 333 pounds) and power, and is described by Kiper as the "best pure right tackle in the draft." He may not be ready to start right away, but the potential is there.
Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
The Commanders seem set at RB with Brian Robinson and Antonio Gibson as their 1-2 punch. However, Gibson saw his role decline last season, and in today's NFL, you can't have too many quality running backs -- especially one who's a passing threat such as Gibbs. He's ranked 18th overall by Kiper.
The draft begins Thursday in Kansas City.
More must-reads:
- Which NFL rookies will be difference-makers next season?
- Super Bowl champion coach shares advice for young QBs after Shedeur Sanders' draft slide
- Legendary Hall of Fame athletes who only played for one franchise
- The best selection each NFL team made in the 2025 draft
- Packers Discussing Reconciliation With CB Jaire Alexander To Keep Him In 2025