Adam Peters put himself in a strong position heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Just as well, because the Washington Commanders don't have many picks to utilize after some frantic trade activity throughout the offseason.
Landmark splashes for prolific left tackle Laremy Tunsil and dynamic wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. signified the Commanders' intent to give quarterback Jayden Daniels everything he needs to thrive further. It's a slight pivot away from Peters' initial ethos, but this project is much further ahead than almost everyone expected.
Peters wants to take the best prospect available regardless of need whenever Washington is on the clock. Some needs are greater than others, but there is enough spare cash to acquire more proven performers from the veteran pool if needed. Once Terry McLaurin's pending contract extension becomes official, this should provide even more financial flexibility on the 2025 cap.
The Commanders got some exceptional returns from Peters' first draft class. It will be more difficult to achieve the same success this time around, but fans have supreme faith in the front office leader. He'll play the board effectively and strike with purpose when opportunities arise with the team's best interests at heart. That's a guarantee regardless of which direction he chooses.
Commanders bolster pass-rush with James Pearce Jr. in 2025 mock draft
Kyle Stackpole from CBS Sports thought another explosive edge rusher should be among Peters' first ports of call during the selection process. And it just so happened that James Pearce Jr. fell into Washington's lap at No. 29 overall in his latest mock draft.
"The Commanders did a great job filling their biggest needs via trades and in free agency and now they address another one with their first draft pick. Over the past two seasons, James Pearce Jr. racked up 28 tackles for loss, 17.5 sacks and two forced fumbles."
Kyle Stackpole
Projections are pretty sketchy for Pearce despite the outstanding athletic gifts he brings to the table. Some analysts have him anywhere from the top 10 to the late 20s, depending on what mock draft you read. His numbers were slightly down at Tennessee last season, but the edge threat's ability to create pressure consistently remained strong.
Pearce has a quick first burst to the initial contact point. He's got violent hands and flexible bend capable of getting low to work his way around opposing offensive tackles. His spin move is nothing short of devastating, which is matched by relentless closing speed in pursuit and strong finishing capabilities against the run.
Improving his strength would be a wise move to smooth his transition. Adding some extra counter moves to his game when he comes up against elite-level competition weekly wouldn't hurt either. But this would be a tremendous place to learn and grow under the watchful eye of Dan Quinn and his exceptional staff team.
The Commanders have an abundance of options. They could target a running back, offensive tackle, wide receiver, safety, cornerback, or even a long-term replacement for Bobby Wagner at the linebacker spot. There's no telling for sure, and Peters is not the sort of guy to tip his hand before the time comes either.
Pearce would be an outstanding addition to the Commanders. Whether he'll be around by the time Washington gets to pick is another matter.
