From Sonny Styles on, Commanders emphasize versatility in the draft

Styles, who began his college career as a safety, was moved to linebacker in 2024 and has played the middle as well as the weak and the strong side since. That flexibility is a big reason Peters couldn’t stop smiling after making the pick. “Sonny’s a guy who can play off the ball. He can play on the ball. He can mug up and blitz,” Peters said. “There are so many different things he can do. He could play, 'MIKE', play ‘WILL,’ play ‘SAM’ — all those different things. He’s got the size to play on the edge. He’s really versatile.” The Commanders had their choice of several receivers in the third round, but Williams ended up being the selection largely because of his ability to play outside and in the slot. “When I’m at my best, I’m playing everywhere,” Williams said. “I like to get mismatches versus safeties, but I also like having that explosive playability on the outside. I like to line up anywhere, and I’m comfortable everywhere.”

Day 3 used for depth

Center and cornerback were the biggest needs when pick No. 147 rolled around. Instead of addressing those, the Commanders selected Tennessee edge rusher Joshua Josephs instead, even signing Odafe Oweh, K’Lavon Chaisson and Charles Omenihu in free agency. At No. 187, Washington selected Penn State running back Kaytron Allen, a power back who set a school career record with 4,180 yards rushing. Allen’s skill set should fill the short-yardage, between-the-tackles role that Chris Rodriguez held last year. Washington took Michigan State center Matt Gulbin late in the sixth round, taking a chance there after releasing veteran Tyler Biadasz. Washington completed its draft by taking Rutgers QB Athan Kaliakmanis in the seventh round.

Still questions at wide receiver

Terry McLaurin remains the clear-cut No. 1 receiver. After him, the unit still has question marks, even with the addition of Williams. Dyami Brown, 2021 Washington third-round pick, is back after spending last season in Jacksonville. Recent draft picks Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane are still looking to carve out roles. Treylon Burks, a 2022 Tennessee first-rounder who signed joined midway through last season, remains in the mix for playing time. “It’s just great competition. It really is,” Peters said. “Those guys will all battle. I really like the competition. They’re all highly competitive guys and they’re good teammates, so I think it’ll add to a really good culture in that room.” \\\_ AP NFL: