If Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters hasn't turned his attention to the offseason yet, that would be a good idea. And if the front-office leader wants to kickstart this ambitious project after an underwhelming campaign, maximizing his draft selections is crucial.
Peters only has six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft as things stand. Trades for left tackle Laremy Tunsil and cornerback Marshon Lattimore mean the Commanders only boast two selections in the opening four rounds. That's not exactly providing much hope, and it also raises the pressure to get his first-round call correct.
The Commanders have several glaring needs right now. None is more pivotal than finding a younger, more explosive player capable of generating more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. It's an area of the field Peters largely neglected during the 2025 offseason. He must not do the same again.
Commanders' chances of landing Rueben Bain Jr. are rapidly fading
Unfortunately for the Commanders, the chances of landing one of the premier edge-rushing prospects are fading.
All eyes were on Rueben Bain Jr. as the Miami Hurricanes looked to cause an upset over the Texas A&M Aggies in the college football playoffs. The defensive end is expected to be one of the first names called next spring, and he did nothing to dispel this projection with a display of pure dominance in the spotlight.
Bain was nothing short of relentless throughout, putting his customary dynamism, power, and anticipation on full display. He gained three sacks, constantly hounding whatever offensive lineman was unfortunate enough to be in his path. This is unlikely to go unnoticed by NFL scouts and front-office personnel when it comes time to begin narrowing their shortlists.
The Commanders will take a long look at Bain. Whether they'll be in a position to take him remains to be seen.
Washington holds the No. 7 pick right now, and this could go even higher with two more losses. That will improve hopes of landing the prospect, but a lot can and will change before the big night.
If Bain is there for the taking, it will be a tricky proposition to turn down. He's not the most physically imposing edge presence, but he's the kind of versatile piece head coach Dan Quinn has had success with before. The pro-ready traits are all there. If teams can get over his arm length and focus more on his playmaking credentials, they'll be rewarded.
Bain will have another chance to enhance his draft stock when the Hurricanes clash with the Ohio State Buckeyes on New Year's Day. And there is no doubt Peters will be watching his progress with interest.