If the Commanders are going to take that so-called next step and advance beyond the NFC Championship Game, the defense will need a stronger showing than in 2024.

Louis Riddick challenges himself to find great selections outside of the blue-chip names, and he's got a doozy for the Washington Commanders this year.

For instance, ESPN's Field Yates recently said that the Washington Commanders ' selection of running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt was one of his favorite picks in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL draft. In a different report, CBS Sports' Josh Edwards said that this was a questionable pick.