Commanders draft Jake Golday
- Linebacker | Cincinnati Bearcats
- Round No. 3 | Pick No. 71
Continuing with the defensive focus early in the draft, the Washington Commanders' linebacking corps needs an injection of energy. Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee should come along under Daronte Jones, but veteran Bobby Wagner's time with the club looks all but done after two seasons.
Wagner's been a fantastic servant, but Father Time is catching up to the future first ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer. The Commanders' rebuild may also not fit into his timeline if he decides to keep playing.
Adding via the draft should be considered. Prospects such as Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles may be options in the first round. If Adam Peters decides to wait, someone like Jake Golday could be a draft gem a little further down the order.
Golday saw his stock rise considerably after a standout final campaign with the Cincinnati Bearcats. He's a sideline-to-sideline presence who looks tailor-made for a 3-4 front, which is what Jones is expected to implement.
Commanders draft Kevin Coleman Jr.
- Wide Receiver | Missouri Tigers
- Round No. 4 | Pick No. 119
Even though the Commanders should rightfully prioritize their defense this offseason, Adam Peters also needs to add to the firepower around quarterback Jayden Daniels. And massive alterations could be coming to the wide receiver room.
Terry McLaurin, Jaylin Lane, and Luke McCaffrey will be around. Uncertainty surrounds the rest, and this need becomes more pressing if the Commanders decide not to re-sign Deebo Samuel Sr.
The Commanders have cash to spend in free agency, but adding through the draft gives them more flexibility and youthful exuberance. Kevin Coleman Jr. didn't stick around anywhere for long in college, which needs further investigation. But from a quick-twitch and talent perspective, there is a lot to like about the Missouri product.
Coleman emerged as a shining light for the Tigers in 2025. The numbers weren't eye-popping due to inconsistent quarterback play, but his fluid route-running and ability in space could be worth a gamble.
Commanders draft V.J. Payne
- Safety | Kansas State Wildcats
- Round No. 5 | Pick No. 145
Daronte Jones singled out almost every safety under contract during his introductory press conference. But make no mistake; general manager Adam Peters should be looking to reinforce the back end urgently through free agency and the draft.
Aside from perhaps Jeremy Reaves, who got more involvement in the defensive rotation than ever, nobody else shone on the back end. Quan Martin, Will Harris, Percy Butler, and Tyler Owens will be anxiously awaiting their fate. And this is not the time for Peters to stand pat.
Caleb Downs remains strongly tipped for the Commanders at No. 7 overall. Washington traded out of that spot in this scenario, so targeting a rough diamond later on should be an option for Peters to consider.
V.J. Payne has the physical scope and athletic attributes to potentially thrive under Jones' exceptional guidance. He's a heavy hitter against the run who is improving in coverage, making him an enticing possibility.