Commanders select Oregon's Conerly with 1st-rounder

The Washington Commanders selected Oregon offensive lineman Josh Conerly in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, 29th overall.

Conerly is a hyper-athletic prospect who boosts Washington's offensive line upside. General manager Adam Peters has been active this offseason in strengthening protection for Jayden Daniels.

The 21-year-old Conerly allowed just one sack and six hurries in 523 pass-block snaps last season, according to PFF.

Pre-draft profile

Conerly has the potential to be a long-term starting tackle in the NFL. Athleticism is the main selling point here. He's got the foot speed and movement skills to match up with the quickness off the edge. He also demonstrates effective hand usage throughout the play. Keeping Abdul Carter under wraps in the Big Ten title game perfectly summed up what Conerly's capable of in pass protection. He may need to get stronger to reach his ceiling since he's inconsistent in sustaining run blocks, and power rushers can expose his anchor in pass protection. However, that's true of many young linemen. Conerly's athleticism and technique provide a great foundation, and his ability to process the game suggests he'll make a successful transition to the NFL.