Commanders Eye Draft Picks to Address Critical Team Needs

ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders prepare for Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, holding three remaining selections after addressing some needs in the first two rounds. General Manager Adam Peters has focused on drafting the best players available, rather than prioritizing specific positional needs.

Fans had anticipated the Commanders would target an edge rusher due to the departure of Dante Fowler in free agency. However, analysts argue the team’s most pressing weakness lies in run defense, which struggled significantly last season, ranking near the bottom of the league.

“While edge defenders are crucial for run defense, our defensive tackles need improvement,” said an analyst. “Daron Payne is solid, but he is not enough on his own, and we need run stuffers to improve the interior line.”

Despite these challenges, Peters has a reputation for finding hidden gems on Day 3. His past teams in San Francisco consistently uncovered starters and impact players in the later rounds. The Commanders are hoping to continue this trend with several promising players still on the board.

The potential targets for the Commanders include defensive tackles such as Joshua Farmer from Florida State and J.J. Pegues from Ole Miss, who both possess qualities that could bolster the team’s run defense.

In addition to defensive linemen, there is also a need for depth at running back and wide receiver. Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is known for favoring dynamic players like Kansas running back Devin Neal and Colorado State wide receiver Tory Horton.

Peters may also look to fill a gap in the kicking game, as the team cycled through five kickers last season. Miami’s Andres Borregales is among the draftable prospects being considered for a reliable long-term solution.

As Day 3 of the draft approaches, Commanders fans are eager to see how the team addresses its critical needs while building for the upcoming season.