The Washington Commanders failed to meet the lofty bar they set for themselves by reaching the NFC Championship game. General manager Adam Peters was correct to push his chips into the middle, but now is the time for a different approach.
Massive changes are already underway in Washington. Kliff Kingsbury was replaced by new offensive coordinator David Blough, who has brought in a quarterbacks coach and assistant quarterbacks coach to work closely with Jayden Daniels. The Commanders are still seeking a defensive coordinator to replace Joe Whitt Jr., and the hire will inevitably implement scheme and staffing alterations once confirmed.
Peters must do his part on the playing personnel side. The Commanders have plenty of cash to spend in free agency, which will increase further once the necessary sacrifices are made. But with only six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft — two of which are in the first four rounds — the margin for error is long gone.
The Commanders haven't taken anything off the table. Peters would probably like to trade down for more capital, but that will be difficult with only one quarterback expected to be chosen before they go on the clock. If no suitable first-round offer arrives, there should be a blue-chip difference-maker available.
Using the Pro Football and Sports Network simulator, we projected how Peters might go about his business in our latest seven-round mock draft.
Commanders' 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft as pressure builds on Adam Peters
Commanders draft Caleb Downs
- Safety | Ohio State Buckeyes
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 7
The Washington Commanders could take an edge rusher with their first-round pick. That is the top priority above all else, but much will also depend on the reinforcements acquired in free agency. And general manager Adam Peters is always going to take the best prospect available, regardless of need.
That brings Caleb Downs into the equation. While taking a safety this high isn't typically done, the Ohio State prospect is an exception. He is a legitimate cornerstone capable of transforming any defense. The Commanders need a game-wrecker on the defensive back end, and this would tick that box and then some.
If those in power believe Downs can become as impactful as Kyle Hamilton, they have to pull the trigger. While improvements must start upfront, if the Commanders can find free agents to plug these holes, spending their first-round pick on arguably the most talented overall prospect in this class would be worth its weight in gold.
Downs looks like a superstar. Positional value doesn't detract from that.