Hype continues to build, and speculation is growing around the Washington Commanders heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Adam Peters will have a plan in place, but analysts are honing in on a select few prospects who are worthy of being taken that high up the pecking order.
One of those is Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. He's arguably the best prospect in this class. While it might be deemed as a luxury for the Commanders, they won't hesitate to take the plunge if Peters believes it can have a franchise-shattering impact on the team's offensive strategy.
Of course, there is a chance Love is gone by the time Washington goes on the clock. In that scenario, one NFL Draft analyst touted a potential option that continues to gain steam throughout the assessment process.
NFL Draft analyst makes compelling case for the Commanders taking Mansoor Delane at No. 7
During a conversation with Commanders insider JP Finlay of 106.7 The Fan, Thor Nystrom from SKOR North thought LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane wouldn't be a bad consolation prize by any stretch of the imagination.
"Mansoor Delane is absolutely worth the 7th overall pick… Delane Island is one name that absolutely has to be under consideration for Washington."
Delane is the consensus best corner in this class, and it's not particularly close. He was the definition of a shutdown presence with the Tigers last season, giving up just 13 catches over the entire campaign. Opposing quarterbacks rarely tested him (35 targets), which is a testament to his ability to lock down one side of the field effortlessly.
He conceded a 26.7 passer rating when targeted, secured two interceptions, and had seven pass breakups. Delane gave up just 165 receiving yards through the air, oozing confidence and conviction no matter who was lined up opposite him.
This is something the Commanders don't have right now. Trey Amos could become that with a better run of luck on the injury front. Mike Sainristil and Amik Robertson don't boast those traits, so there is significant merit to using the No. 7 pick on Delane.
The Commanders made some decent defensive additions in free agency. Aside from Robertson, who is seen as a versatile rotational piece more than anything else, Peters held firm at cornerback. That could mean the front-office leader has something planned early in the draft. And without a second-round pick, don't be surprised if Delane is the guy.
Washington has shown interest in Delane. Those in power will find out more about the prospect during his in-person visit to the Commanders. If they are suitably impressed and Love goes beforehand, this could be a shrewd move with endless benefits.
Time will tell, but dismissing the possibility entirely at this stage would be extremely foolish.