The Washington Commanders got through the main part of free agency with ruthless efficiency. General manager Adam Peters was aggressive and strategic, filling key needs while also moving away from aging veterans past their prime, putting the franchise in a strong position for an immediate bounce back.
Now, attention is slowly turning to the 2026 NFL Draft. And there is one massive upcoming date that Commanders fans should be monitoring closely.
The Commanders will no doubt have a strong contingent in attendance at Ohio State's pro day on Wednesday, March 25. Several prospects from the Buckeyes are being strongly touted as potential options for Washington at No. 7 overall in the draft. This showcase will provide those in power with a chance to get a closer look at the worthy first-round candidates before the big night arrives.
Commanders would be wise to have a strong contingent at Ohio State's pro day
Linebacker Sonny Styles is among them. The second-level enforcer took the NFL Scouting Combine by storm, putting in a historic performance to soar his draft stock. This backed up what the prospect put on tape, and he would be a strong possibility for the Commanders despite the recent signing of Leo Chenal.
There is also Caleb Downs to consider. The gifted safety is arguably the best overall prospect in this class, although positional importance could mean he goes a little later in the top 10. Most analysts believe he will still be around when Washington goes on the clock, and this would be the do-it-all defensive asset Daronte Jones needs to hit the ground running.
If the Commanders turn their attention to the offensive side of the football, wide receiver Carnell Tate enters the equation. He's a dynamic X wideout with Pro Bowl-caliber potential at the next level. This would be the perfect partner for Terry McLaurin, who also attended Ohio State before becoming Washington's third-round selection in 2019.
Of course, Arvell Reese will also be putting the exclamation point on his NFL aspirations at the pro day. Unfortunately for Washington, the chances of him being around at No. 7 are extremely remote.
If the Commanders landed any one of these four prospects, no fans would be complaining. Styles, Downs, Tate, and Reese all look capable of carving out highly successful careers for themselves in the NFL. Their pro day is an opportunity for Peters to narrow down his shortlist, though all four could still be an option when push comes to shove.
In truth, the Commanders couldn't go wrong with any of them. Two or three might go in the first six picks, and other prospects will also be considered. But it wouldn't be surprising if Ohio State's pro day tipped the scales.
Just who the Commanders have in mind is the big question nobody knows the answer to right now.