The Washington Commanders hold the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Despite an offseason that witnessed the franchise attacking positions of need, the team still needs help. The Athletic’s Nicki Jhabvala discussed how the Commanders can veer in any direction.
“But after months of scouting followed by draft meetings and pro days and more draft meetings and top-30 visits and more meetings, the Commanders have gotten to know a number of prospects quite well — and they know they have a number of good options. Washington’s draft is wide open, and part of that is intentional.”
With general manager Adam Peters’ early aggressiveness, Washington doesn’t need to react or overcommit to fill a particular need or position. As a result, they retain the flexibility to navigate the market, rather than being forced to do so. Peters understands this point, and it appears he deliberately geared the market that way.
“We don’t have to pick a certain position,” GM Adam Peters said last week at the NFL’s annual meetings in Phoenix. “… With what we did in free agency, it’s not like, ‘OK, we have to go get this because we have a gaping hole here or there.’”
For example, six spots ahead of the Commanders, the Las Vegas Raiders need a franchise quarterback. As a result, it appears as though they will cast their lot with Indiana signal caller Fernando Mendoza. Without a position of overwhelming need, Washington can commit to the time-tested practice of drafting the best available player.
The Measurables That Open Eyes: Is That Enough?
Jhabvala mentions Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles as a possible fit. Styles tested well at the combine, exceeding expectations. Additionally, he flashed on the field. However, a couple of questions still linger regarding his fit at No. 7.
Sonny Styles is playing like a lottery pick. Would be my LB1 in most classes pic.twitter.com/9CfysTIVwN
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) November 11, 2025
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First, how much stock should Peters place in the combine numbers? Styles profiles as a sideline-to-sideline linebacker, whose coverage skills feel a bit inflated. According to Pro Football Focus, the Buckeyes linebacker allowed 85.3% of opponents’ passes that targeted his responsibility. While only one touchdown was scored, those passes could lead to prolonged drives.
Sonny Styles
GettyPotential Commanders draft pick Sonny Styles makes a tackle during a 2024 Ohio State/Indiana game.
The Lead Back Who Can Alter the Offense
Regardless of what draft guide or line of thinking you subscribe to, Jeremiyah Love remains the best running back in the draft and probably the only one to hear his name called in the first round. Love does everything well. For example, he possesses excellent speed, balance at contact, and acceleration.
Jeremiyah Love
GettyPotential Commanders draft pick Jeremiyah Love celebrates a touchdown against USC during a 2025 game.
At the same time, he displays the type of power that you don’t expect from a player with his skill set. In other words, he will lower his shoulder to gain the extra yard or two. Still, is running back an overwhelming position of need for the Commanders? With Bill Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White leading the backfield, should Peters commit a high pick to a position that appears redundant at this point?
Jay Gruden sees the hype in Jeremiyah Love. He thinks you can find receiver talent later in the draft, but a talent like love is not easy to find. #NFL #Commanders pic.twitter.com/mhiRyguDpt
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) April 6, 2026
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Strengthening a Vital Position With Ceiling
Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey combines speed and strength in pass rush. Subsequently, he can reach into his repertoire and keep opposing tackles off guard. The Commanders did sign Odafe Oweh to a four-year, $100 million deal this offseason.
David Bailey
GettyPotential Commanders draft pick David Bailey makes a tackle against Houston during a 2025 game.
However, providing a bookend that looks to cave in the corners of an offensive line. The lone question regards Bailey’s ability to become a complete player. Without a doubt, he can rush the passer, but can he become a factor in the run game?
David Bailey 9 TKL, 1 SCK, 2 PD, 2 TFL vs Oregon College Football Playoff Quarterfinal Today.pic.twitter.com/z8F81MyeVp https://t.co/vYpik5BrBd
— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) January 1, 2026
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Peters will never tip his hand or give insight into where the Commanders lean, and he doesn’t need to. Because of his ability to assemble talent in the offseason, Washington can select any of the aforementioned players, and they will emerge better than when the draft began.