The Washington Commanders have a lot of hard work and tough choices ahead of them this offseason. But one team icon urged those in power to think outside the box with their first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Washington is currently sitting at No. 6 overall in the pecking order after a spirited overtime loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football. General manager Adam Peters could trade back for more picks, or he could stand pat to take a blue-chip prospect capable of becoming a franchise cornerstone. There is just no telling for sure right now, but fans have already begun to speculate on who'll be available and of interest before the all-important pre-draft assessment phase.
Legendary ex-Washington quarterback Joe Theismann has one prospect in mind that he believes would be an excellent fit for the Commanders. It would be contentious given the needs elsewhere, but Peters always wants to take the best on his board and worry about the rest later.
Joe Thiesmann wants the Commanders to draft Jeremiyah Love in 2026
During an interview with JP Finlay and Brian Mitchell on 106.7 The Fan, Theismann made no secret of his desire to see Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love in the famous burgundy and gold. He also compared his skill set to that of James Cook from the Buffalo Bills, only with more accomplished pass-blocking.
"First of all, he should win the Heisman. He's the best player in college football. Secondly, he would look really, really good with a W on his helmet. And he's a highlight film every week. He reminds me of James Cook up in Buffalo. He's got that kind of explosiveness, that kind of elusiveness, and that kind of power. Plus, you know, he's used to pass blocking as well."Joe Thiesmann via 106.7 The Fan
Joe Theismann belives Jeremiah Love would look great rocking burgundy and gold. #NotreDame #CollegeFootball #JeremiahLove #JamesCook #Football #Commanders #NFL pic.twitter.com/NdBhsZwnGt
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) December 1, 2025
Love is a legitimate dual-threat force with the elite traits to become an NFL superstar immediately. There are very few (if any) flaws to his game. Putting him next to quarterback Jayden Daniels represents a mouthwatering proposition that could become the league's most prolific backfield tandem. And it's no surprise to see Theismann give the prospect his seal of approval, being a Fighting Irish alum himself.
The reality, at least right now, paints a different picture. The Commanders only have six draft picks. Two of those are in the first four rounds. Peters doesn't have the luxury of using his projected top 10 pick on Love, no matter how good he could be in the pros.
Edge rusher, cornerback, linebacker, and maybe even wide receiver would take priority over another running back, especially if Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jeremy McNichols are extended. But if the right pieces come on board via free agency to fill critical roster holes, the scenario becomes more realistic.
There is a long way to go. But there would be nobody happier than Theismann if the Commanders somehow got their hands on Love.