Speculation is rising around what the Washington Commanders could do at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Adam Peters is in a stronger position after more than a dozen new acquisitions in free agency, and there should be some enticing options available when he goes on the clock.
The big names are taking center stage, and rightfully so. The Ohio State trio of wide receiver Carnell Tate, safety Caleb Downs, and linebacker Sonny Styles is among the hotly touted candidates, but one respected team insider highlighted another possible option from the Buckeyes who has been glaringly overlooked in comparison.
ESPN insider John Keim revealed that the Commanders are high on interior defensive lineman Kayden McDonald. While he acknowledged that No. 7 overall would be too high, and Washington has no chance of him dropping anywhere near No. 71 in the third round, the longtime beat writer thought this could be a possibility if Peters manages to find a trade-down partner.
Commanders would need a trade-down offer to justify drafting Kayden McDonald
Just how likely that will be is anyone's guess. This is not a quarterback-rich class, with only one — Indiana Hoosiers signal-caller Fernando Mendoza — expected to be taken in the top 10. There is a slim chance someone falls in love with Alabama's Ty Simpson enough to surge up the order, but it seems unlikely.
Peters is covering all bases, examining as many prospects as he can to ensure he doesn't get caught on the back foot. McDonald is among the dozens being linked, and with good reason.
The defensive lineman has a unique blend of size, strength, and explosiveness. McDonald is a former four-star high school recruit with prototypical traits of a productive NFL nose tackle. He absorbs combination blocks effectively while also boasting phenomenal power at initial contact. There are limitations as a pass-rusher, but his traits will make him a supreme force against the run from the moment he gets to the league.
It's not hard to see why the Commanders are intrigued. They are projected to implement a 3-4 base scheme under new coordinator Daronte Jones. Washington has Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, and Tim Settle Jr., but two of those have uncertain futures beyond 2026.
Payne is in the final year of his deal and will need to perform well for another lucrative commitment. Kinlaw is a prime cut candidate if he cannot turn things around. There are also concerns around 2024 second-round pick Johnny Newton's lack of progress entering a crucial Year 3 of his professional career.
McDonald would provide long-term stability. But a lot needs to happen before the Commanders can justify this pick when push comes to shove.