Chris Brazzell II
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Potential Commanders draft target wide receiver Chris Brazzell II
The Washington Commanders march towards the 2026 NFL Draft. While only armed with two picks in the first three rounds, the team may need to alter its current list of picks. ESPN, via writers John Keim and Jordan Reid, broke down what the franchise could and should do.
The Early Dilemma That Can Benefit the Team
Keim believes the franchise needs both talent and depth. There is a 64-pick gap between the team’s first and second selections.
“A team that is willing to trade up calls them, allowing the Commanders to recoup a Day 2 draft pick. Washington enters the draft with six picks but has only two in the first three rounds to replenish a roster that badly needs youth.”
For example, if a team needs a player at a certain position, the Commanders can still draft in the first round and acquire multiple Day 2 picks to stock them with starters and depth. Peter Schrager from ESPN touted this theory here.
How Far Will Washington Move Back?
The Commanders hold the No. 7 pick. As is the case in most drafts, a college athlete intrigues a franchise to the point of an attempt to trade up. Keim believes that Washington will exercise caution.
It’s doubtful the Commanders will want to move back more than a few spots — there are players they like who could help them and will be available in the top 12. GM Adam Peters said at the combine that it will be hard to get any team to move up, as only one QB is expected to be drafted in the top 10.
Teams that move up fall into two categories: good teams that need a rookie to get them over the hump or mediocre ones that want to make the playoffs. If the Commanders find a trade partner, Reid believes that two positions sit at the top of the list.
“The Commanders need to be precise. Wide receiver and cornerback are two positions the team is expected to address with its top-100 picks. And like John said, Washington wouldn’t mind trading back to grab an extra pick or two. ”
General manager Adam Peters didn’t address the needs at cornerback and wide receiver. As a result, it would make sense that, as Reid asserts, the Commanders look to make the positions the focal point of the draft strategy.
Finding the Right Mix
Players like LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane and Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy highlight the secondary. Each can play man coverage, off coverage, or a zone. Last season, Washington surrendered 19 passing touchdowns to wide receivers. Furthermore, new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones brings in a defensive scheme that requires a mix of discipline, athleticism, and aggression.
CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 30: T.J. Moore #1 of the Clemson Tigers attempts to get the ball against Mansoor Delane #4 and Jardin Gilbert #2 of the LSU Tigers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Katie Januck/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the receiver, outside of star wideout Terry McLaurin, is anyone’s guess. McLaurin and quarterback Jayden Daniels share on-field chemistry that produces big plays. Meanwhile, on the other side, questions exist.
The team tried to have Deebo Samuel act as the Robin to McLaurin’s Batman. Unfortunately, Samuel could only thrive in the short game. catching passes at or behind the line of scrimmage. Instead, a player like Yennessee wideout Chris Brazzell II brings a long stride, contact balance, and sure hands on the opposite side of the field.
Tennessee WR Chris Brazzell II was a mismatch against opposing DBs utilizing his size, length and catch radius. While not the most physical receiver and boasting a thinner frame, his height (6’4) speed (4.37) and natural receiving abilities will be enticing for teams that are… pic.twitter.com/HAx5l6rYOG
— Jake Hefner (@JakeTHefner) March 28, 2026
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If the Commanders stand pat, they will land an immediate starter at No. 7. If they trade down, what does that look like for them?