Commanders rookie sends strong message with steely minicamp focus

It's not about where you get drafted, it's about what happens when you get to the NFL. That phrase hasn't gone unnoticed by a prized Washington Commanders rookie with lofty expectations on his shoulders.

The Commanders ignored other more pressing priorities to take offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. at No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Adam Peters wasn't entirely convinced that the former Oregon standout would be around when Washington went on the clock. He wasn't going to refuse such a gift from the football gods.

Being a first-round pick comes with added pressure. Conerly will be expected to contribute immediately. There's an opportunity to start at the right tackle spot opposite five-time Pro Bowl blindside enforcer Laremy Tunsil. Watching his progress throughout the summer will provide a broader indication of his first-year outlook, but the edge force made a good first impression over the team's recently concluded rookie minicamp.

Josh Conerly Jr. eager to prove himself all over again with Commanders

Conerly was eager to set the tone. He sent a strong message and wasn't taking anything for granted. There was a reflective moment when his dreams came true, but he quickly turned the page to what came next.

Well, the helmet felt great, so I mean it was pretty unreal and it's really just a dream come true, know what I mean? You do have to know your stuff and know it fast, so that's the only way you're going to get out there.Josh Conerly Jr. via SI

This is the right attitude to have. Conerly's outstanding mentality to focus on the next challenge and nothing more should also have a positive ripple-effect on other rookies looking to carve out roles for themselves.

When they see a first-round pick displaying this outstanding work ethic and willingness to improve, they must follow suit. If the most coveted prospects are going above and beyond to establish themselves, those further down the depth chart who don't display similar traits will get left behind quickly.

Conerly knows he hasn't proven anything. What he accomplished in college means almost nothing now in the grand scheme of things. It's given him the momentum to be successful, but thinking the job is already done could provide obvious stumbling blocks.

Thankfully for the Commanders, they were equally impressed with Conerly's characteristics away from the gridiron during their comprehensive pre-draft assessments. He's a high-character individual who emerged as a respected locker room leader with the Ducks. That's the goal he'll be aiming for in the pros, which should slot into Washington's exceptional culture shift under head coach Dan Quinn seamlessly.

Setting the tone for others to follow was Conerly's first completed NFL challenge. And he's just getting started.

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