The Washington Commanders are looking to revamp their roster after failing to meet expectations in 2025. General manager Adam Peters must be ruthless. After all, there is just no telling how much warmer his seat will get if things continue trending downward next time around.
Drastic action is needed. The Commanders have an abundance of salary-cap space that could exceed $100 million if the necessary sacrifices are made. Washington also has six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, although only two of those are in the first four rounds.
That makes things more difficult for Peters. Ideally, he can find the right reinforcements from the veteran pool to provide the flexibility to take the best prospects available. Drafting for need almost never works, and the front-office leader must be aggressive to achieve this objective.
The Commanders could turn things around quickly with a little bit of luck on the health front and the correct recruitment approach this offseason. That's been lost amid all the doom and gloom, and a strong draft would go a long way in pursuit of improved fortunes.
Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we took a look at how Peters might approach matters in our post-Super Bowl mock draft.
Commanders' 7-round mock draft finds difference-makers and development projects
Commanders draft David Bailey
- Edge Rusher | Texas Tech Red Raiders
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 7
The Washington Commanders are in a tricky predicament at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Only one quarterback is expected to go before general manager Adam Peters goes on the clock. There should be some blue-chip prospects available, but it's an unfortunate waiting game with no clear outcome right now.
What cannot be disputed is Washington's need to bolster its pass rush. Peters made no secret of that fact during his end-of-season media availability, and one could make a strong case that several new additions are needed. Even if the Commanders acquire a productive veteran in free agency, that shouldn't prevent the front-office leader from finding a high upside prospect in the draft, either.
David Bailey may be the best of the bunch. The Texas Tech prospect took his game to new heights in 2025. His explosiveness, bend, and relentless motor make him a significant problem to counteract. He'd be an immediate upgrade on anything Washington has right now, so the Commanders should seriously consider bringing him into the fold if they get the chance.
Looking at the scheme that new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones plans to run, Bailey would be a perfect fit. Whether he'll be around or not is another matter.