Suspense continues to build for the 2026 NFL Draft, set to begin in only two weeks in Pittsburgh. The Washington Commanders will be selecting at No. 7 overall, and their options are plentiful.
Washington has been linked to edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and David Bailey, linebacker Sonny Styles, wide receiver Carnell Tate, running back Jeremiyah Love, safety Caleb Downs and more. It will be a difficult decision for Adam Peters, but the six teams picking before the Commanders might make it easier for him.
It's no guarantee that Washington's first choice will be available when the team makes its selection. And it sounds like there are two prospects who might be rising out of the Commanders' range.
NFL Draft analyst claims Sonny Styles, Carnell Tate could both be out of Commanders' reach
Todd McShay of The Ringer gave the NFL world some rather surprising insider intel, revealing that there is significant noise surrounding Tate being a top-five pick. Styles, who has been projected around that range, will also likely be gone by the time Washington selects.
Styles has always felt like somewhat of a pipe dream for Washington, especially after his electric showing at the NFL Scouting Combine. Some mocks have had him slipping to No. 7, but generally, he has been going before then.
Tate, meanwhile, is an option that has been picking up steam for the Commanders, especially given that the team has not yet seriously addressed the wide receiver position in free agency. He is considered the top wideout in the draft and will be in high demand.
Either of them would be a major prize for the Commanders. Washington could still use another linebacker to join Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee, while new signing Leo Chenal can play a utility role if Styles is selected. Tate would provide David Blough's new offense with a dynamic rookie opposite Terry McLaurin, which is exactly the type of weapon that quarterback Jayden Daniels needs.
However, it sounds like Washington will need some backup plans. Both Ohio State products are climbing up the boards, and the chances are dwindling that the team will have a shot at either of them.
The Commanders will still have options, regardless of whether or not Styles or Tate are there. Downs usually hasn't been projected above Washington's slot, and there is serious buzz surrounding Love to D.C.
But Peters can't fall in love too much with his first choice, or even his first couple choices. He might not get them.