The Washington Commanders have one overlooked issue that needs Adam Peters' attention during the 2025 NFL Draft. This centers on the backfield options next to quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels.
And their hopes of landing a dream long-term option could be dashed after a notable development elsewhere.
Peters held firm at the running back position this offseason. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler remain on the books in the final year of their respective deals. Jeremy McNichols got a one-year extension after providing veteran assurance when called upon in 2024. The Commanders also slapped an exclusive rights tender on Chris Rodriguez Jr. to prevent him from speaking to other teams in free agency.
This keeps the same quartet from last season. However, the notable over-reliance on Daniels to gain yards on the ground, coupled with the long-term uncertainty with no running back under contract in 2026, means Peters cannot get complacent. He must examine (and pick) one of the prospects emerging from a deep draft class this spring.
Commanders could miss out on TreVeyon Henderson after Broncos show late interest
One name being hotly linked with the Commanders is TreVeyon Henderson. The Ohio State standout is a potential three-down force capable of impacting proceedings from the moment he gets into the building. Some analysts have him as a second-round pick, but an intriguing development could see the prospect go much higher.
According to reports, the Denver Broncos brought Henderson in for a pre-draft visit on the final day teams around the league were permitted to do so. The AFC club also happens to have a glaring need for another running back after Javonte Williams left for the Dallas Cowboys in free agency.
Denver picks at No. 20 overall in the first round. They also hold the No. 51 selection in the second round. That means it's a waiting game for the Commanders if they identify Henderson as a desired option.
Taking him at No. 29 is the most realistic outcome. The Commanders need an edge rusher and perhaps another offensive tackle, depending on what's available at the time. They also have the luxury to select a running back given the moves made this offseason.
Whether Henderson will be around by then is anyone's guess. There's a growing sense that more running backs will go in the first round than initially projected. Ashton Jeanty is a potential top-10 pick. Omarion Hampton's floor is probably in the high teens or low 20s. If the former Buckeyes' standout is deemed the best of the rest, he'll also be in first-round consideration.
Peters has contingency plans in place. The Commanders brought Kaleb Johnson in for a visit, and they'll have several others on the shortlist. Whichever route the team decides to take, fans have complete confidence he'll find the right talent with the characteristics needed to fit into head coach Dan Quinn's culture shift seamlessly.
Looking at the newfound momentum surrounding Henderson, he may no longer be an option. But time will tell on that one.
