Buzz continues to build around the Washington Commanders potentially using the No. 7 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft on running back Jeremiyah Love. However, one NFL analyst warned general manager Adam Peters about the dangers of this possibility.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter fanned the flames about Love's potential arrival in Washington, stating this was a spot he was watching. He's not alone in that assumption, which would give the Commanders one of the league's most prolific backfields alongside quarterback Jayden Daniels.
There is a chance Love gets taken before, which makes this debate moot. If the Notre Dame phenomenon is available, it could provoke a strong discussion in Washington's draft room.
NFL analyst doesn't think Commanders are in a position to draft Jeremiyah Love
John Kosko of Pro Football Focus thought the Commanders had too many glaring needs at premium positions to spend their first-rounder on a perceived luxury like Love, no matter how tempting it might be. Taking the running back, in his opinion, would be a grave error in judgment.
"The Commanders attempted to surround Jayden Daniels with veteran talent to make a push for a Super Bowl. However, those pieces didn’t pan out as Daniels took a step back and was oft-injured. With several weaknesses on the roster, selecting a non-premium position with a decorated draft pick would be a massive misstep.
"With Jeremyiah Love likely to be available at the Commanders’ first pick, the temptation will be great. Yet, it must be resisted despite the potential of a high-powered Daniels and Love backfield."
The Commanders did a good job of providing more flexibility in free agency. Peters secured 13 new signings with the potential of more to come. The defense took priority, so the front-office leader could use the No. 7 pick on an explosive offensive weapon for Daniels.
This is also not a need pick. There is a distinct lack of top-end, blue-chip talent in this draft, according to most analysts. Peters might recognize that, too, so if he gets the chance to select arguably the best overall prospect from this crop of NFL hopefuls, he will seriously consider the possibility.
Washington is well-stocked in the running back room. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Jerome Ford, and Jeremy McNichols are currently on the books. Love would clear them all from the moment he gets into the building. What Peters must figure out is whether the Commanders have enough elsewhere to take the plunge.
It's a fascinating dynamic for Washington fans to watch in the coming weeks. Whether it's Love or someone else, Peters cannot miss on his first-rounder this year with high-end draft capital at a premium.
That's not up for discussion.