Jayden Daniels had trouble staying healthy last season. Things felt off with the Washington Commanders quarterback long before that, so the 2026 campaign represents the perfect chance to bounce back and remind the world just how special he is.
The Commanders are doing their part by providing him with the weapons needed to thrive. General manager Adam Peters knows how important it is to maximize Daniels' rookie contract. And with the signal-caller becoming extension-eligible after his third year, the clock is ticking.
More arrivals are imminent. Speculation remains around wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk eventually reuniting with Daniels. That might not be anytime soon, but Peters can add more explosiveness around the former LSU standout during the 2026 NFL Draft.
There is one dynamic prospect who could become the perfect sidekick for Daniels. And if Peters pulls the trigger, it would strike fear across the league.
Commanders could form a dominant backfield tandem with Jayden Daniels and Jeremiyah Love
Some fans don't believe the Commanders are in a position to select Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. It's not exactly a premium position, and Washington is still looking for a better balance. But if the Heisman Trophy finalist is available when Peters goes on the clock, it will provoke a strong discussion in Washington's draft room.
In a draft where blue-chip talent is at a premium, Love is arguably the best overall prospect in this class. His production with the Fighting Irish was nothing short of astonishing. He's got everything NFL teams look for in a legitimate three-down force capable of exploiting even the smallest seams for big gains. And the best part? He's striving to be an all-time great.
The Commanders have other options. Adding to Daronte Jones' defense is feasible. Peters could also address the receiver room with someone like Carnell Tate or Jordyn Tyson. But if Washington is looking for a game-changing presence to take the pressure off Daniels, there is nobody better than Love.
Whether Love will be on the board at No. 7 is debatable.
Fernando Mendoza is the only quarterback projected to be taken in the top 10. This makes it one of the more uncertain drafts in recent memory, which makes it hard to gauge how things will unfold.
The backfield threat could be available. Love could also go as high as No. 4 to the Tennessee Titans. It's a waiting game, and there is just no telling how things will play out.
Head coach Dan Quinn and Peters have both spoken highly of Love throughout the pre-draft process. The prospect stated his excitement at potentially forming a pairing with Daniels. A lot has to go right for the Commanders, but it would be a difficult proposition to turn down.
And if the choice was Love, there would be nobody happier than Daniels.