The Washington Commanders mercifully have just one more game to navigate before the 2025 campaign ends. It's been a disaster almost from start to finish, and one could forgive fans for checking out long before head coach Dan Quinn's squad was beaten on Christmas Day by the Dallas Cowboys.
It's all about the offseason for them now. Adam Peters is embarking on a critical third recruitment period at the helm, and the stakes couldn't be much higher. He must get almost every decision right, especially when it comes to the 2026 NFL Draft.
Peters doesn't have much to work with. The Commanders have six selections throughout the event, but only two of those come in the first four rounds after bold trades for stud left tackle Laremy Tunsil and Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore. Not exactly ideal, but Washington's dismal run of recent results ensures they could potentially have a top-five choice in the first round when push comes to shove.
That opens things up for Peters. He could explore trade-down opportunities. However, that largely depends on whether Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore (if he declares) remain on the board. The Commanders could also take this opportunity to find a blue-chip prospect with franchise cornerstone potential, which would be equally beneficial.
It'll be fascinating to watch how Peters approaches the offseason. Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we took a look at how the Commanders might go about things in our latest seven-round mock draft.
Commanders' 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft begins with elite difference-maker
Commanders draft Arvell Reese
- Linebacker | Ohio State Buckeyes
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 7
The Washington Commanders need a makeover on defense this offseason. Head coach Dan Quinn will likely fire defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. after he was removed from play-calling duties. This unit also desperately needs an injection of explosiveness, dynamism, and youthful exuberance. Don't be surprised if this comes with his first-round pick.
If Arvell Reese is still on the board when Washington goes on the clock, it would be a tricky proposition to turn down. Bobby Wagner's future beyond the campaign is in doubt despite his substantial numbers. If he retires or takes his chances elsewhere, the Commanders need a sideline-to-sideline force with long-term upside.
Reese offers that and more. He's a physical mismatch, boasting the size and athleticism Quinn typically looks for in his linebackers. He explodes into running lanes, can generate pressure at will, and is also developing encouragingly from a coverage standpoint for good measure.
There are no sure things in the draft. However, the Ohio State prospect is as close as it gets.