NFL Draft Notebook: Bo Nix takes charge in Denver and Commanders' 2025 WR targets

In this week’s NFL Draft Notebook, we kick off by exploring the Denver Broncos' decision to name Bo Nix as their starting quarterback and what impact he could have on the upcoming season. Along with spotlighting Nix, this article also delves into three wide receivers the Washington Commanders should consider targeting in the 2025 NFL Draft to replace Jahan Dotson, and much more.

Bo Nix takes the reins in Denver

Denver Broncos' rookie quarterback Bo Nix was officially named the starter this past week, a decision that surprised few after his standout performance against the Packers. In that game, Nix completed an impressive eight of nine passes for 80 yards and a touchdown, demonstrating the skills that led to his selection as the 12th overall pick last spring.

One of the key traits that stood out in that game was his exceptional accuracy. Nix consistently hit his wide receivers in the ideal spot, allowing them to pick up yards after the catch. This accuracy was also evident in his college career, where he led the FBS by completing 77% of his passes last year, 3% more than any other player.

Another trait that shined during the preseason was his composure in the pocket. Nix rarely appeared rushed on his throws, and even when flushed from the pocket, he kept his eyes downfield, finding open receivers on the move. His poise under pressure is particularly impressive for a rookie.

Nix also showed a high football IQ, consistently making the right reads and avoiding forcing throws. This was a hallmark of his time at Oregon, where he threw just three interceptions to 45 touchdowns last season. Broncos' head coach Sean Payton valued this intelligence highly when scouting Nix, and it was a major reason the team ranked him as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft.

However, one concern with Nix heading into the draft, and still lingering after the preseason, is his lack of elite arm strength. Most of his preseason passes were in the short passing game, and he didn’t attempt many deep throws either in games or during training camp. This could become an issue if NFL defenses begin playing tight coverage when game-planning against him in the regular season.

Looking ahead, Nix is likely to be a solid, if not spectacular, quarterback in the NFL. Playing in Sean Payton’s offense, which emphasizes quick reads, accuracy, and a high football IQ, should allow Nix to maximize his potential. However, his lack of arm strength might limit his overall production at the professional level.

Three wide receivers Commanders could target in the 2025 NFL Draft

Last week, the Washington Commanders made a significant preseason move, trading wide receiver and former first-round pick Jahan Dotson, along with a fifth-round pick, to Philadelphia in exchange for a third-round pick and two seventh-round selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. While this trade gives Washington additional draft capital, it also creates a pressing need for a wide receiver to complement Terry McLaurin. Below, we highlight three wide receivers Washington may target in the 2025 NFL Draft, especially if fourth-round pick Luke McCaffrey proves to be a better fit in the slot than on the outside.

Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

If Washington prioritizes adding a weapon for Jayden Daniels in the first round next April, Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan could be an ideal fit. McMillan had a standout 2023 season, hauling in 90 catches for 1,402 yards—the second-most in a single season in Arizona history. At 6'4" and 210 pounds, McMillan has the size to complement McLaurin and excels in contested catch situations, with 17 contested catches last season. His reliable hands, having dropped only two passes last year, add to his appeal as a top target.

"T-Mac is probably the biggest freak that I’ve ever been around. He doesn’t have that great a vertical, but it’s his coordination that is freakish. He has great hand-eye coordination. He’s the best athlete I’ve ever seen."

- Jedd Fisch on WR Tetairoa McMillan

Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

A potential late first-round option is Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka, who is looking to bounce back this season after an injury-plagued year. Egbuka could be a great fit in Washington due to his ability to make plays after the catch. He possesses excellent quickness, vision to find open space, and the ability to change direction sharply. Egbuka has also contributed on special teams, averaging 21.2 yards per kickoff return in 2021, adding versatility to his skill set.

Deion Burks, Oklahoma

Washington could also wait until the third round to address this position, especially if Luke McCaffrey has a strong rookie season and proves capable of playing outside. One prospect who could be a great fit as a slot receiver is Oklahoma's Deion Burks, a transfer from Purdue. Burks showcased his ability to gain separation consistently during Oklahoma’s spring game, catching five passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his smaller stature, Burks is surprisingly strong, boasting a 540-pound squat and a 400-pound bench press. His strength makes him an effective blocker, capable of chipping linebackers or handling safeties on outside runs.

NFL Draft News and Notes

Draft reach might get cut: Heading into the 2024 NFL Draft, I had serious doubts about former Marshall running back Rasheen Ali, grading him as an undrafted free agent. However, the Baltimore Ravens took a gamble and selected him in the fifth round. Now, it seems that decision may not pay off, as Ali is reportedly in danger of not making the team. In the preseason opener, he struggled, particularly in short-yardage situations, and has been dealing with injuries over the past few weeks.

Best NFL position: It's a bit concerning to see how rookie Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean has struggled against quicker receivers like Britain Covey in practice. Although he's only been back for a few practices after missing time due to injury, if he continues to have trouble matching up with these types of players, it wouldn't be surprising if the Eagles considered moving him back to safety—a position he played during his time at Iowa.

Bears make several trades: The Chicago Bears made significant moves to strengthen their defensive line, completing two trades just before the roster cutdown deadline. The headliner is former Seattle Seahawks defensive end Darrell Taylor, who notched 5.5 sacks last season. Additionally, the Bears acquired defensive tackle Chris Williams from the Cleveland Browns, although Williams has yet to make a significant impact in his three-year NFL career. The Bears' focus on upgrading their defensive front highlights the urgency to address this area, potentially making it a priority in the 2025 NFL Draft. One first-round prospect to watch is Michigan’s Kenneth Grant, who could be an ideal fit.

Arizona Could Eye Offensive Guards in the Draft: In Friday’s edition of NFL Draft Notebook, we spotlighted three guards to watch this season, and the Arizona Cardinals are a team that will be paying close attention. Both of their starting guards, Will Hernandez and Evan Brown, are pending free agents. Additionally, with both players receiving low run-blocking grades from Pro Football Focus last year, the Cardinals may look to upgrade the position. They’ll need tough, physical linemen to open up running lanes for backs like James Conner and Trey Benson next season.