It's pretty common knowledge that the Washington Commanders are on the lookout for more firepower around quarterback Jayden Daniels before on-field preparations for the new campaign begin. And this all starts in the wide receiver room.
The Commanders signed Van Jefferson Jr. and Dyami Brown to go along with what they already had on the books, but that won't be enough. Even if Brandon Aiyuk does arrive at some stage to reunite with Daniels, Washington will benefit greatly from acquiring a dynamic pass-catcher with long-term upside during the 2026 NFL Draft.
And one former Washington star believes there could be a hidden gem lower down the draft order if Peters goes in a different direction with the No. 7 overall selection.
Fred Smoot highlights Brenen Thompson as a potential Commanders draft steal
Fred Smoot, who became a cult hero during his seven seasons in Washington, highlighted Mississippi State wideout Brenen Thompson as a prospect that should be on the Commanders' radar. He believes the blazing speed and special-teams contribution could make him a solid No. 3 option for Daniels to call upon.
"You know he ran a 4.3 at the combine? He is a late-round steal who will provide big-time special teams play. He will be someone's #3 WR and a legit one at that."
Thompson is an outlier at 5-foot-9, but moving to the Bulldogs last season was a fantastic decision. Thompson was an electrifying playmaker, bringing in 57 catches for 1,054 receiving yards and six touchdowns. His speed is exceptional, which makes him a home run threat every time he touches the football. This is matched by quick feet and active hands, effortlessly generating separation.
There are concerns. Thompson isn't the most physically imposing receiver, to put it mildly. His contested catch production is poor, and the prospect will need to become a sharper route runner when he gets to the pros to stand any chance of carving out a significant role for himself.
The Commanders don't have anyone with this sort of pace. Thompson could potentially be a steal if he lands in a scheme that plays to his strengths. Whether the Commanders are interested is anyone's guess, but this possible addition would no doubt bring an injection of explosiveness that was sorely lacking last season.
Obviously, the Commanders will be exploring other receivers. Peters could address the position a lot earlier than Thompson is expected to go. But if Washington is still searching for wideout assistance early on Day 3, this represents a more intriguing option than most.
Smoot is a big fan of Thompson. Maybe that sentiment will be echoed by Peters when the critical selection event arrives.
Stranger things have happened.