The Washington Commanders will be anxiously awaiting what goes on in front of them before the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Adam Peters wasn't entirely sure what would take place, but the front-office leader will plan for every scenario that could arise.
Peters cannot control the first six selections in the draft. The only certainty is that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza will be taken first. After that, it's a calculated guessing game, and there are likely to be several twists and turns along the way.
According to a recent report, the New York Giants could shift the landscape again.
Commanders will be watching the Giants' draft pick closely at No. 5
Things have already changed after the Giants gained the No. 10 selection by trading three-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals. It could cause a ripple effect, with reports suggesting that Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is under strong consideration at No. 5 with this extra flexibility.
However, an anonymous head coach speaking to Connor Hughes of SNY held a different opinion.
"They're taking [Caleb] Downs."
Caleb Downs is arguably the best overall prospect in this class. Positional value has led to speculation that the Ohio State safety may slide down the pecking order, but head coach John Harbaugh has already spoken glowingly about the defensive back on more than one occasion.
If the Giants do take Downs at No. 5, that could open things up slightly for the Commanders. While rumors suggest that Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love won't be around, New York going in this direction may increase the chances that linebacker Sonny Styles is available.
NFL Draft insider Todd McShay is among those who believe Styles is head coach Dan Quinn's preferred choice. It's all speculation and hearsay right now, but Peters' comments about the Ohio State product highlight the esteem in which he is held.
It's hard to know who to believe and what to take seriously at this juncture. Peters admitted as much, so he probably cannot wait for the big night to arrive.
He's not alone.
The process can become tedious. And because nobody has the first clue what will happen after the Las Vegas Raiders select the quarterback they hope will be their franchise of the future, it's only strengthened the guessing games.
Peters will be adaptable, rolling with the punches at all times. Moving back is possible if the right offer comes along. But the Commanders will need a little bit of luck along the way.
And the Giants taking Downs could represent precisely that, even if they'll have to face him twice a year within their division.
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