The Washington Commanders have officially turned the corner to become one of the NFL’s better teams after years of mediocrity. This is largely due to their rookie quarterback, who has played exceptionally well. Jayden Daniels has shown a ton of potential and promise to be great for the future.
Washington currently holds the 29th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With Daniels as their quarterback for the future, trading down from their first-round pick might be the smartest move. Here’s why.
Why Trading Down From Pick 29 Might Be the Smartest Move for Jayden Daniels’ Future
Washington is expected to consider trading down from Pick 29. It remains to be seen what they could get for it, but one rumor suggests multiple picks. This is likely a move they would make to potentially benefit Daniels’ future.
The fact is, while Washington doesn’t need a quarterback, they have an aging roster. Combined with prior drafts (2020-2023), which produced only three starters, this has been a recipe for disaster. Except for Daniels, Washington hasn’t drafted well.
Recent trades for offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, defensive back Marshon Lattimore, and wide receiver Curtis Samuel have cost Washington a lot of mid-round picks. As a result, Washington has no selections in Rounds 3 and 4 of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Altogether, Washington has five picks left in the 2025 NFL Draft. While this might seem like a lot, not having picks in Rounds 3 and 4 is less than ideal. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell discussed why Washington should trade down in the 2025 NFL Draft.
“General manager Adam Peters’ 2024 draft class was much more promising, but one draft can only do so much,” Barnwell wrote. “Furthermore, after trades for offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, cornerback Marshon Lattimore, and wideout Deebo Samuel, the Commanders don’t have picks in Rounds 3 and 4 of this draft.
“They’re also down second- and fourth-round picks in 2026 as part of the deal for Tunsil. Per Stuart’s chart, they rank 31st in draft capital in 2025 and last in 2026. It’s understandable why Peters wanted to add veterans to the roster, but the 2024 Texans showed how a team built around veterans and free-agent additions can stagnate, even with a young star at quarterback.
“Picks at the bottom of Round 1 often draw trade calls from teams selecting at the top of Round 2 that want to move up. Peters would be wise to seriously consider those offers.”
Moving down from Pick 29 while giving up a better prospect could open the door to additional assets to replenish the team’s depth and add youth. It remains to be seen what Washington does, but there’s a strong possibility trading down could be the answer.
