The Washington Commanders are looking for more explosiveness and dynamism in their edge-rushing room this offseason. Adam Peters has cash to spend in free agency if the right opportunities present themselves, but some experts are also projecting the general manager to take a pass-rusher at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
That is likely, regardless of whether a couple of free agents are acquired. However, Peters must come to the harsh reality that one of the blue-chip prospects might be long gone by the time Washington goes on the clock.
One doesn't have to look far in mock drafts to see the Commanders and Texas Tech standout David Bailey paired up. In recent weeks, that has shifted slightly, with the edge force being touted as a top-five selection. This scenario looks almost certain after a stunning display of athletic prowess at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.
David Bailey all but out of Commanders' reach after stunning NFL Combine showcase
The linebackers and defensive linemen took center stage on Day 1 of on-field workouts. Several turned in borderline historic performances, including Ohio State's Sonny Styles. Not to be outdone, Bailey confirmed what everyone saw during his game-wrecking stint with the Red Raiders, showcasing his elite burst, quick twitch, and outstanding bend, leaving fans and NFL personnel salivating.
Bailey's testing numbers speak for themselves. He didn't need to take part in drills with his stock already high. He wanted that extra exclamation point, and the prospect delivered accordingly.
NFL Combine Drill | Mark |
|---|---|
40-yard dash | 4.5 seconds |
10-second split | 1.62 seconds |
Vertical jump | 35 inches |
Broad jump | 10 foot, 9 inches |
These numbers were enhanced by Bailey's work in other drills. It was a mesmerizing workout that stands up to his tape. And if the Commanders were hoping to see him still on the board at No. 7, it seems as if they will be out of luck.
This won't have been lost on Peters whilst watching Bailey strut his stuff. It would be a shock to see him drop out of the top five now, let alone fall to the Commanders. There should be one or two legitimate long-term cornerstone pieces available, but this is unlikely to be one of them.
Bailey could go as high as No. 2 to the New York Jets. He may not make it past the Tennessee Titans at No. 4. The length, athleticism, and relentless motor are traits typically associated with highly productive pass rushers at the next level. The Titans and Jets would have a hard time looking away from Bailey and Arvell Reese, but the Commanders will be ready for anything.
The NFL Scouting Combine can be somewhat misleading. But in Bailey's case, it confirmed what everyone knew about his ceiling-smashing potential.