New Commanders NFL Mock Draft Expert Roundup for 1st-Round Pick

The Washington Commanders are under pressure following a disappointing season. They have one of the league's oldest rosters, with few young players ascending. This is a pivotal draft for a franchise that expects to be back in the playoffs.

Ahead of the first round of the draft on April 23, here's a look at what experts are projecting the Commanders to do with the No. 7 pick:

Expert: B/R NFL Scouting Department (4/15)

Selection (No. 7): WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

The Washington Commanders experienced two massive swings in opposite directions over the last two seasons.

First, they found a franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels, and the rookie led them to the NFC Championship Game. The next, the sophomore signal-caller struggled through injuries and the team fell to 5-12.

The key is keeping Daniels healthy and placing the best possible supporting cast around him. Since Washington's offensive line is set, the Commanders turn to the skill positions and provide Daniels with the class' WR1.

"Carnell Tate would create a strong one-two punch along Terry McLaurin," B/R scout Damian Parson said. "Tate is a route technician with veteran-like savviness. He is a three-level receiver with a strong catch radius to high-point down the field."

---

Expert: Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN (4/15)

Selection (No. 7): WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

Expert: Field Yates, ESPN (3/24)

Selection (No. 7): RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Expert: Matt Miller, ESPN (3/30)

Selection (No. 7): CB Mansoor Delame, LSU

Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com (3/31)

Selection (No. 7): CB Mansoor Delame, LSU

Expert: Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com (3/17)

Selection (No. 7): Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic (4/15)

Selection (No. 7): RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer (3/4)

Selection (No. 7): LB Sonny Styles, Alabama

Summary

Head coach Dan Quinn can't have a repeat of last season, where injuries crippled his roster. They must be better equipped to handle difficult circumstances. Adding a playmaker to bolster the offense would be exciting. If one of the top defensive prospects falls to seven, Washington likely won't hesitate to select him.