The Washington Commanders could be preparing to take a different approach in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
As devastating as it was for the Commanders to accept their horrific (5-12) result from last season, they might be leaning toward “best-player-available-mode” rather than focusing on team fit like they did a year ago fresh off a NFC Championship appearance.
The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner mentioned on Thursday the Commanders could deliver an exciting splash with the No. 7 overall pick.
That splash is predicted to be Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. After the shuffling of players within the top-six, and free agency well underway, the scenario has a legitimate chance of becoming true.
Commanders Shouldn’t Overthink This One
The 6-foot, 212-pound junior was one of college football’s most explosive playmakers last season, with comparisons to Bijan Robinson, Ashton Jeanty and Jahmyr Gibbs in terms of talent.
With ‘need’ clearly being the priority of each of the franchises drafting ahead of the Commanders, it wouldn’t be foolish to buy into the thought of Love in the nation’s capital.
Washington’s backfield currently has Jacory Croskey-Merritt and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers dual-threat Rachaad White (signed on March 12) locked in as the only two RBs on the active roster. And while other areas still need to be addressed, the Commanders could be inspired to take a shot on a player who has instant cornerstone potential.
Love To Washington Continues Gaining Steam
If Washington goes in that direction, Love could quickly become one of the most intriguing offensive weapons in the draft. Not only does his running style fit the system, but it could benefit Jayden Daniels a great deal — having more dependability behind him to open up the passing game.
On March 11, ESPN’s Field Yates also echoed the idea that Love could fit perfectly in Washington’s evolving offense.
As Yates noted yesterday, the Commanders’ free-agency moves may have already freed them up to draft purely on talent rather than necessity.
“The Commanders landed one of the best free agent pass rushers in Odafe Oweh, which checks the box for their most pressing need and enables general manager Adam Peters to take my No. 2 prospect in this class,” Yates wrote. “We can debate the merits of taking a running back early in perpetuity, but Love is a dynamic, dual-threat player who would instantly supercharge what was a middle-of-road backfield last season. Teaming up Love with Jayden Daniels could be a lot of fun.”
Selecting a running back inside the top ten always sparks debate across the NFL.
Some front offices prefer to prioritize premium positions such as quarterback, offensive tackle, edge rusher, or cornerback early in the draft. Others are willing to break that mold when a truly elite skill player is available.
The Commanders are hoping for a comeback year in Daniels under center, and having another elite young player next to him could be just the impetus they need to pull the trigger on draft night.
There’s still a ton of offseason left to play in just a month and a half, so it’ll be interesting to see what becomes of this trend by the time the clock rolls around on the April 23 Pittsburgh stage.
Commanders Predicted to Target Star RB in ‘Best-Player-Available-Mode’ at No. 7