Pundits are calling for the Washington Commanders to give quarterback Jayden Daniels an elite playmaker to help on offense. The Commanders appear in position to do that at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
But not every analyst is on board with that idea.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine named Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate the one prospect Washington should avoid in the 2026 NFL Draft. Instead, Ballentine argued the Commanders should address their defense.
“Surrounding Jayden Daniels with more firepower is a noble draft objective for the Commanders. Pairing former Ohio State receiver Terry McLaurin with fellow Buckeye Carnell Tate would even check that box,” wrote Ballentine.
“But this is about utilizing the seventh pick to maximize the roster moving forward. That likely means spending the pick on a defensive player.”
Ballentine went on to note the Commanders were last in the NFL in total defense last season. They were also 27th in points allowed and inside the bottom five in rushing yards allowed, pass defense and takeaways.
Commanders Warned to Avoid Consensus Top 10 Playmaker in 2026 NFL Draft