2024 NFL Mock Draft: Commanders Scenario With Trade Down

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Post on Apr 08, 2025

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2024 NFL Mock Draft: Commanders Scenario with a Trade Down Strategy

The Washington Commanders enter the 2024 NFL Draft facing a crucial decision: address immediate needs or strategically maneuver for long-term gain. With a potential top-10 pick, a trade down presents a compelling option, allowing them to accumulate more draft capital and potentially land multiple impact players. This mock draft explores a scenario where the Commanders leverage their high pick to bolster their roster through shrewd trading and strategic selections.

The Commanders' Needs:

Before diving into the mock draft, let's highlight the Commanders' most pressing needs. Their offensive line requires significant upgrades, and adding a consistent pass rusher is paramount. Depth at cornerback and linebacker also remains a priority. A successful draft will depend on addressing these deficiencies effectively.

Scenario: A Trade Down and Multiple Picks

Let's assume the Commanders are sitting pretty with the #7 overall pick. Instead of selecting a player directly, they engage in trade negotiations with a team desperate for a top quarterback prospect or a franchise-altering defensive talent. In this scenario, we'll imagine the Commanders trade down to the #12 pick with the Houston Texans, receiving an additional second-round pick (#42 overall) and a third-round pick (#74 overall) in return.

Round 1, Pick #12: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

With their newly acquired #12 pick, the Commanders address a critical need at cornerback. Devon Witherspoon is a highly touted prospect known for his physicality and ball skills. He's a lockdown corner who can elevate the Commanders' secondary immediately. His tackling ability and aggressive style perfectly complement their defensive scheme.

Round 2, Pick #42: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

The Commanders double down on offensive line fortification in the second round by selecting Anton Harrison. Harrison possesses the athleticism and technique to protect the quarterback's blind side, solidifying a crucial position for years to come. This pick directly addresses a critical weakness identified earlier.

Round 3, Pick #74: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State

The third-round pick focuses on linebacker depth. Daiyan Henley is a versatile linebacker with impressive instincts and playmaking ability. He provides an immediate upgrade to the linebacking corps and contributes special teams value as well. This pick provides valuable depth and future potential.

Analysis of the Trade Down Strategy:

This mock draft scenario demonstrates the potential benefits of a trade-down strategy. By moving back a few spots, the Commanders acquire additional draft capital, allowing them to address multiple needs with high-quality players. Instead of relying on one potential star player, they build depth and competition across multiple positions.

Other Potential Trade Partners and Picks:

While the Texans are used as an example, several teams could be potential trade partners for the Commanders. Teams needing a quarterback or a high-impact defensive player in the top 10 would be interested in moving up. Other potential trade scenarios could involve the Atlanta Falcons or the Carolina Panthers, leading to different player selections.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL Draft offers the Washington Commanders a significant opportunity to reshape their roster. A trade-down strategy, as demonstrated in this mock draft, can prove highly advantageous, enabling them to acquire multiple talented players and significantly improve their chances of contending in the upcoming season. The success of this strategy hinges on accurate scouting and astute negotiation, but the potential rewards are undeniable. The Commanders' front office will have to carefully weigh all their options to secure the best possible outcome in the draft.