The first wave of NFL free agency is over, which means it’s time to focus on the 2025 NFL Draft in April. This week, the Last Word on Pro Football staff announced their latest mock draft for 2025. The staff made 32 picks for every NFL team that has a first-round pick. With the No. 29 pick, the Washington Commanders are projected to select Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons. Simmons is one of the highest-rated prospects at his position and would give the Commanders a huge boost in the trenches. At the same time, all eyes are on Washington after the team had its best season in 33 years.
Commanders Select Difference Maker in Latest Mock Draft
Josh Simmons Background
Born in San Diego, Josh Simmons played high school football at Madison High School and Helix High School. He initially started his college career at San Diego State, where he was redshirted in 2021. The next season, he started all 13 games with the Aztecs. He then transferred to Ohio State, where he quickly established himself into a key player. Simmons started all 13 games in 2023 and continued his strong play into the 2024 season.
However, Simmons’ 2024 season ended prematurely after six games due to a knee injury. Despite this, he still earned Third-Team All-Big Ten honors for the National Championship-winning Buckeyes. Simmons entered the Combine standing at 6’5″ and weighing 317 pounds. With an arm length of 33 inches, he provides a significant advantage in both pass protection and run blocking. Simmons also has impressive athleticism, which are evident in his fluid movement and excellent initial quickness.
Josh Simmons’ Impact with Commanders
The Commanders are looking like future contenders after making an improbable run to the NFC Championship Game. In response, general manager Adam Peters has been making tons of moves in free agency. The biggest move being the trade for Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Washington had needed an upgrade at offensive line, particularly at tackle. Tunsil has the size and experience to protect Jayden Daniels’ blindside, and an addition at right tackle would certainly bolster the offensive line.
Last season, the Commanders’ two main offensive tackles were Andrew Wylie and Brandon Coleman, who were both below-average starters. Washington had better strengths at center with Tyler Biadasz and at guard with Nick Allegretti and Sam Cosmi. However, Cosmi tore his ACL in the Commanders’ Divisional Round playoff victory over the Detroit Lions. This opened a massive hole at right guard to start the 2025 season. Luckily, Washington’s front office has already made tons of key moves throughout free agency. Wylie is currently listed as the starting right tackle on the Commanders’ depth chart.
Peters selecting Josh Simmons with the No. 29 pick would give the Commanders’ offensive line an even bigger boost. With Tunsil starting at left tackle, Simmons would most likely line up on the far right. Together, the two offensive tackles could make Washington’s offensive line one of the most elite in the NFL. Simmons has the right blend of size, athleticism, and technical proficiency to contribute to an NFL offensive line. It especially helps when Daniels is under center, as he emerged as a star quarterback as a rookie in 2024.
Main Image: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
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