Could the Washington Commanders land a Heisman Trophy winner in the NFL Draft for the second straight year?
In the 2024 NFL Draft, Washington had the No. 2 overall pick and selected LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels won the Heisman Trophy after a record-setting final season for the Tigers. Daniels' arrival completely transformed the Commanders from a four-win team to a playoff contender.
At 8-5, Washington should make the NFC playoffs barring an unforeseen collapse.
Even though Commanders finally have something to offer in December, it's never too early to start looking ahead to next season. That means it's time for a mock draft. While Washington finds itself in a very different situation than it was a year ago, commanders have several needs.
In a new one Dane Brugler has the Commanders provide some support to Daniels and the offense. Brugler has Washington selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 21 overall pick.
Jeanty is one of the best players in this draft class, period. But there aren't many obvious landing spots for a running back in the top 20, especially if Dallas fits (and I don't expect any trades in a mock draft at this early stage).
Washington wouldn't be upset if top seed Boise State fell that far behind. I'll check the nfl rulebook again, but a Jayden Daniels/Jeanty backfield hardly seems fair.
We agree with Brugler. Could you imagine a backfield with Daniels and Jeanty, with Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler? Assuming Washington adds a receiver in free agency, the addition of Jeanty would give the Commanders one of the top 10 players in the upcoming draft. The only reason Jeanty doesn't make the top 10 is because of his position.
Jeanty ran for 2,288 yards this season, averaged 7.3 yards per carry, scored 28 touchdowns and has the Broncos in the College Football Playoff. Jeanty and Colorado star Travis Hunter are clear favorites to win the 2024 Heisman Trophy.
GM Adam Peters is all about recruiting the best player available. If Jeanty goes at No. 21, he would undoubtedly be the best remaining player on the board.
What are the chances of the Commanders winning back-to-back Heisman Trophy winners?
