With the 2026 NFL Draft right around the corner, the Washington Commanders' plans have begun to feel a little bit clearer. And after Adam Peters' major free agency splurge, there's one prospect who feels unlikely to be selected with the No. 7 overall pick.
Entering the offseason, the Commanders' single biggest need was at edge rusher. They went into 2025 with Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Deatrich Wise Jr. as projected starters, and both of them suffered season-ending injuries. That left head coach Dan Quinn scrambling for answers, using Jacob Martin, Preston Smith, and an out-of-position Frankie Luvu.
Now, that problem has been solved. Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson are here. Charles Omenihu should provide solid depth along with the returning Armstrong and Wise. That also means Washington probably won't be drafting Miami's Rueben Bain Jr.
New mock draft projects the Commanders to draft Rueben Bain Jr., but it doesn't add up
Josh Edwards of CBS Sports has released his latest mock, and he has Washington taking Bain. A month ago, he'd have been as ideal a candidate as anyone. Now? It's a bit questionable.
"There are a lot of teams in this draft eyeing defensive talent in a number of different roles. The Commanders may consider safety Caleb Downs and linebacker Sonny Styles, but Rueben Bain is of equal consideration despite moves made by the organization this offseason."
The only rationale for Bain to Washington is if Peters and company decide to go with the best prospect available, and even then, better options might be on the board. The Miami star will probably be a solid pro, but nobody is screaming about him as a can't-miss future Pro Football Hall of Famer.
Prospects like Styles and Downs, who Edwards also mentions, have received just as much hype. They are better fits for Washington at the moment. The Commanders could use one more linebacker and another starting safety opposite Nick Cross.
Additionally, the Commanders now have a glaring hole at wide receiver beyond Terry McLaurin, which could make Carnell Tate an option if Brandon Aiyuk isn't signed, and possibly even if he is. Running back Jeremiyah Love could also be on the table, as polarizing as it always is to take the position in the first round.
It's anyone's guess how Peters feels, and for all we know, Bain could still be under consideration. But it would be a surprise if he is the pick, and Washington might be wiser to pursue other positions.