The Washington Commanders have left no stone unturned in free agency so far. And one expert believes this could push general manager Adam Peters straight toward an obvious prospect at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
An aggressive first wave of free agency opens things up for Peters, both for the draft and the remainder of this offseason. The Commanders have money to spend, should they wish. With only six picks in the draft — only two of those in the first four rounds — that looks entirely possible.
Peters can play the board effectively. Needs have diminished, which allows the front-office leader to take the best prospect available, regardless of need. Washington also looks like a prime trade-down candidate if the right offer comes along.
NFL expert believes the Commanders are now in a position to draft Caleb Downs
The options are endless. But the free agents acquired by Washington left Sayre Bedinger of NFL Spin Zone convinced that Ohio State safety Caleb Downs would be their guy when push comes to shove.
"Simply put, Caleb Downs has been unanimously considered one of the best and safest picks in this draft class for a full year at this point. Downs is a top-tier talent who can play anywhere in a defense. He's going to bring a presence immediately and will be able to pick up any defensive scheme with ease. The Commanders need to continue adding on that side of the ball and Dan Quinn is one of those coaches who loves the safety position more than most."
Downs is an exceptional prospect. Talk about injury red flags at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine amounted to nothing more than hearsay, with no legitimate substance. The defensive back has all the tools needed to be a star from the moment he steps onto an NFL field. More importantly, this may now be a luxury the Commanders can afford.
The Commanders added Nick Cross to bolster their safety room, but there isn't much confidence among the fan base in those under contract who vastly underperformed last season. Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones praised almost every safety during his introductory press conference, but he would relish the chance to work with Downs.
Jones's extensive experience working with defensive backs, coupled with the aggressive scheme he plans to install, makes this a possible match made in heaven. Downs has all the tools, but positional importance might see him slide lower than some of the edge rushers and linebackers who are also highly touted. However, if the Commanders genuinely believe he can be a franchise cornerstone, they won't hesitate.
And based on their free agency moves, Downs could be the spark that ignites this entire defensive unit.