The Washington Commanders have signed 15 new players throughout an aggressive offseason from general manager Adam Peters so far. This was desperately needed, and with the 2026 NFL Draft upcoming, another significant opportunity to strengthen the roster awaits.
Peters has six selections during the draft. Only two are in the first four rounds after the Commanders traded for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil last year. While that move was a major success, it doesn't make the front office leader's task any easier when the all-important selection event commences.
Washington's draft success will be predicated on the No. 7 pick. Peters has no clue what's going to happen after Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza goes to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 overall, but there should still be a chance to find an immediate difference-maker. And with the Commanders not selecting again until No. 71, they cannot get it wrong.
It's a fascinating dynamic, and nothing should be off the table. Using the Pro Football and Sports Network simulator, we took a look at how the Commanders might approach their selections in our latest seven-round mock draft.
Commanders' 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft builds on impressive free agency
Commanders draft Caleb Downs
- Safety | Ohio State Buckeyes
- Round No. 1 | Pick No. 7
There are some usual suspects coming into consideration for the Washington Commanders' pick at No. 7. Adam Peters could swing for the fences with Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. He could add receiver help or look for a shutdown cornerback with LSU prospect Mansoor Delane. Though unlikely after free agency, the edge rushing duo of David Bailey and Rueben Bain Jr. couldn't be completely dismissed.
Then, there is the Ohio State quartet. The Commanders sent a strong contingent to the Buckeyes' pro day to get a closer look at Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate, and Caleb Downs. However, two or three could be gone by the time Washington goes on the clock.
It would be surprising if Downs wasn't still available. Based on the projected scheme that new coordinator Daronte Jones plans to run, this makes too much sense.
Positional importance may dictate a slide of sorts for Downs, but he's arguably the most talented overall prospect in this class. He is a legitimate three-level influencer. He is a tone-setter at the safety spot, with exceptional tackling technique and anticipation that allow him to get around the action consistently.
Downs is an outstanding support system in coverage, managing route concepts and transition changes with ease. The football IQ is absolutely off the charts, so this could be the guy Washington needs to ensure Jones hits the ground running.