The Washington Commanders set out their stall by hiring Daronte Jones as their next defensive coordinator. This is a changing of the guard and the start of what will hopefully be the implementation of new ideas to improve the team's fortunes.
However, it counts for nothing if general manager Adam Peters doesn't acquire the correct personnel to put his ambitious plans into action.
Washington has cash to spend in free agency. They also have six draft picks in 2026, but only two are in the first four rounds. Their choice at No. 7 overall is critical, and Jones' arrival could provide a window into how the Commanders approach matters.
If Peters stands pat and doesn't receive interest in moving back, attention turns to finding the defensive prospect capable of bringing Jones' scheme to life. This centers on two things — quick-twitch pass-rushers with the required length, and versatile defensive backs capable of switching alignments at the drop of a hat.
Pairing Daronte Jones with Caleb Downs would revolutionize Commanders defense
That makes it a two-horse race, at least from the outside looking in. Rueben Bain Jr. and Arvell Reese may be off the board by the time Washington goes on the clock, leaving Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey and Ohio State safety Caleb Downs as the likeliest candidates.
Even though Washington is clamoring for pass-rushing help, Jones' reputation with defensive backs makes Downs a prospect that cannot be ignored. He fits the mold of what the Commanders should be looking for if their new defensive coordinator runs the scheme most experts anticipate. And positional importance may guarantee he's still around when it's Peters' turn to pick.
Downs is arguably the most talented overall player in this draft. There is nothing he doesn't excel at, bringing a unique blend of tone-setting physicality and coverage capabilities that were second-to-none in college football.
Prioritizing the defensive front might be the way to go. Still, slotting the safety into Jones' concepts while also benefiting from his exceptional ability to bring out the best in his defensive backs could tip the scales when push comes to shove.
Having a supreme dominator like Downs — someone who can influence proceedings at the second level, assist with coverage on the backend, and even cover slot receivers, running backs, or tight ends in man-to-man situations — would make things easier for the entire unit.
Much will depend on what reinforcements the Commanders manage to acquire in free agency. But the prospect of pairing Downs and Jones is a mouthwatering one from Washington's perspective.
It's also the safest pick Peters will ever make.