The Washington Commanders will enter the 2024 NFL draft with a clear plan in mind. With general manager Adam Peters at the helm, the team is looking to address key needs on both sides of the ball. After a successful free agency period, where they filled several roster holes, the Commanders are now focused on the upcoming draft, armed with nine selections, including six within the top 100.

The quarterback position is a top priority for Washington, considering the recent changes in ownership, management, and coaching staff. ESPN's Matt Miller predicts that the Commanders will select LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick. Daniels' dual-threat ability fits perfectly with new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's Air Raid offense. With impressive rushing statistics and a high QBR, Daniels is poised to excel alongside wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.

While North Carolina's Drake Maye is also in contention, Daniels' readiness to contribute immediately makes him the clear choice at QB2. The Commanders sent a significant contingent to both Daniels and Maye's pro days, signaling their keen interest in securing their future signal-caller.

In the second round, Washington is projected to target a defensive end. Missouri's Darius Robinson, who had a breakout 2023 season with nine sacks, is seen as a viable option to bolster the team's pass rush. However, an offensive tackle might be a more sensible choice considering the Commanders' needs. The team desperately requires protection for their new quarterback and ESPN's mock draft proposes Houston's Patrick Paul as a strong candidate. Paul's impressive physical attributes and readiness to play as a rookie make him an enticing selection.

The third round brings another opportunity for Washington to strengthen their defensive end position. Penn State's Adisa Isaac, known for his quickness and power, is seen as a valuable acquisition who would complement Robinson's abilities. Additionally, the Commanders aim to add size and length to their secondary, and Oregon's Khyree Jackson, a supersized cornerback standing at 6-foot-4, fits the bill perfectly.

Washington's fourth-round pick, designated at 100th overall, brings the possibility of landing a talented tight end. Penn State's Theo Johnson, known for his all-around ability and size, could become an immediate contributor and add receiving skills to the team's tight end group.

As the draft progresses, the Commanders will look to fill other positions of need. Illinois wide receiver Isaiah Williams, known for his slot-receiver potential, could offer valuable depth in the fifth round. Ohio State linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and North Carolina State offensive lineman Dylan McMahon are projected as late-round picks who could provide depth and compete for backup roles.

The Washington Commanders' draft strategy revolves around addressing immediate needs while also focusing on long-term potential. With a young quarterback and offensive tackle at the forefront, the team aims to capitalize on their draft capital to build a formidable roster for the future.