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The Washington Commanders entered the 2024 NFL Draft after another underwhelming season and a coaching shakeup. They desperately needed a strong draft to build a stronger foundation for the future. They made some interesting choices, some of which raised eyebrows for me, but overall, they managed to add potential talent and quality starters across the board. Here’s a detailed look at their draft picks and how they graded out for me.
Round 1: Jayden Daniels, QB | Grade: C+
Jayden Daniels is a solid quarterback prospect with a lot of potential, but selecting him over Drake Maye is perplexing. Daniels has fun traits and fits well with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s system, but Maye seemed like a safer and more promising bet. This pick could work out, but it’s a risky move that leaves some questions. You can read my full length scouting report on Jayden Daniels here.
Round 2: Johnny Newton, IDL | Grade: A+
Johnny Newton was a top-10 player on my board, and getting him in the second round is an absolute steal. Although the Commanders are already strong on the interior defensive line with Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen, the sheer talent and potential Newton brings makes this pick a home run. He can be a game-changer on their defense.
Round 2: Mike Sainristil, CB | Grade: B-
Mike Sainristil is a good slot corner, and while I like the player, the pick feels a bit early. The Commanders drafted Quan Martin in the second round last year, and he had a solid rookie year. If this means Martin moves to a true safety role, it could work out, but the redundancy here is a concern for me.
Round 2: Ben Sinnott, TE | Grade: B
Ben Sinnott is a high-upside tight end with receiving skills similar to Sam LaPorta. This is a bit early for him based on my board, but it addresses a position of need. Sinnott has the potential to develop into the Commanders’ tight end of the future, making this a solid, if not spectacular, pick.
Round 3: Brandon Coleman, OL | Grade: D-
Brandon Coleman was a reach in the third round. I had a late fifth-round grade on him due to his poor footwork and inconsistent play. The Commanders' offensive line needed help, but Coleman’s selection this early is hard to justify. He’s an elite athlete, but this pick feels like a significant reach.
Round 3: Luke McCaffrey, WR | Grade: A
Luke McCaffrey is a player I really like. He’s explosive with the ball in his hands, has great hands, and can immediately contribute as a slot receiver. He has the potential to develop into a strong WR2 alongside Terry McLaurin, making him a great addition to the Commanders’ receiving corps.
Round 5: Jordan Magee, LB | Grade: A
Jordan Magee was my favorite developmental linebacker in this class. He’s a great athlete and went right around where I had him graded. Magee has a lot of potential and is a pick to keep an eye on. This selection adds much-needed depth and upside to the Commanders' linebacker room.
Round 6: Dominique Hampton, S | Grade: A-
Dominique Hampton is a versatile player who can be a good third or fourth safety and a valuable dime back. He’s a talented athlete, and this is a solid pick for the Commanders in the sixth round. Hampton’s ability to contribute on special teams and in sub-packages makes him a worthwhile selection.
Round 7: Javontae Jean-Baptiste, EDGE | Grade: A-
Javontae Jean-Baptiste is an athletic edge defender who didn’t develop much as a pass rusher in college but is a solid run defender. In the seventh round, this is a great value pick. If the Commanders can tap into his pass-rush potential, Jean-Baptiste could turn into a steal.
