The Washington Commanders entered free agency with a plan, discussed between general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn. Now, according to an NFL insider, Washington enters tonight’s draft with a plan. Insider Todd McShay, 106.7 The Fan host Grant Paulsen, said the team will attack first.
“Todd McShay on the Commanders’ pick at 7 today:
‘The last conversation I had was very authoritative and that was this pick will be defense. Quinn has got it — priority is too light a word. It’s a mandate that we get that we get that defense fixed.'”
Ugly 2025 Stats and Performances Force Organizational Shift
While the Commanders need another wide receiver, they will probably draft one. However, the defense needs to be repaired rapidly. For example, forcing 10 turnovers means the defense could not assert its will within the framework of the game. As a result, opponents drove the length of the field, emerging with at least a field goal or a field-position advantage. At three levels of the field, you can see that Washington must get better.
Everything Starts With the Pass Rush
For decades, the NFL has evolved into a pass-happy league that centers on throwing the ball while minimizing the rush attack. Under those circumstances, the Commanders could address an immediate threat.
In Miami, the organization can use edge rusher Rueben Bain as a bookend to Odafe Oweh, as they play different styles to accomplish the same goal. Oweh features a twitchy style that blends an explosive first step, flexibility, and closing speed. In contrast, Bain wants to bring a powerful aspect to every snap. Critics suggested that his lack of arm length would hamper his approach.
GettyMiami pass rusher Rueben Bain
Swarming the Run Game Calls for Sideline-to-Sideline Assistance
Bobby Wagner, who will receive the Hall of Fame call five seasons after he retired, recorded 162 tackles, making every play in front of him. Yet, that is also where the problem arises. Wagner, at age 36, cannot flow horizontally like he once did.
Those extra steps can add up, prolonging drives and keeping the defense on the field. Meanwhile, Ohio State Sonny Styles, while nowhere near as accomplished as Wagner, offers the athleticism to cover more ground. Additionally, Styles’ worth as a blitzer also figures into the conversation.
GettyOhio State linebacker Sonny Styles
Cornerbacks Could Open the Door to Winning
DeVonta Smith, Malik Nabers, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens. Four of the better wideouts reside in the NFC East. Subsequently, the Commanders will meet twice during the season. Washington surrendered 33 touchdowns through the air. On top of that, opponents felt no qualms about testing the Commanders’ secondary early. Allowing ten first-quarter passing touchdowns sends a message that teams will not respect a defense.
GettyLSU cornerback Mansoor Delane
LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane could serve as a starting point for new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. Delane did not allow a touchdown in 2025, lending credence to the belief that he is the best cornerback in the draft class. Plus, Washington really didn’t add a marquee corner in free agency. Instead, they signed Amik Robertson.
Commanders Draft Approach Receives ‘Authoritative Mandate’ From HC Dann Quinn