A new mock draft has the Commanders taking a 'skeleton key' defender
If the 2025 NFL Season were to close out today, the Washington Commanders would have a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
It’s been a steep decline and fall from where the Commanders were last year, but after injuries helped to expose depth issues and schematic flaws, the team is at least in a position where it might be able to add even more blue-chip talent to quarterback Jayden Daniels and others.
With the bye week coming to a close, we wanted to take one more look into the future before getting back to more pressing business, with a mock draft view of who might be available to help Washington get back on track in 2026.
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A Top-10 Pick on the Horizon
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs is the kind of player who could inspire a team like the Commanders to toss aside common practice to get a ‘skeleton key’ type of defender on their roster.
The rise in analytics will tell you that safety isn’t a position worth spending such high draft capital on, but if Washington targets help in the front seven and even in other secondary spots in free agency, Downs could be the perfect addition in the first round, especially if the top edge rushers are off the board already.
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Addressing the Trenches and Beyond
Without a second-round pick thanks to the trade that brought left tackle Laremy Tunsil into the fold, we fast forward to the third round, where we project the Commanders to target interior offensive line help.
Specifically, Auburn center Connor Lew could be someone high on the draft board next April as he can immediately contend for interior snaps. Chris Paul has served well as the left guard this season, and center Tyler Biadasz is a favorite for a reason, but the overall line efficiency this season is middle of the pack when it comes to pass blocking, leaving room for competition.
As long as Tunsil is on the roster and with Josh Conerly Jr. only entering his second season since being a first-round pick in 2025, we can’t imagine they target another offensive tackle early, so interior offensive line is the move here.
Some Day 3 names to watch at this stage include Miami (FL) receiver Eugene Wilson III, who could not only add to the room but contribute as a kick returner, freeing Deebo Samuel to focus on offense if the team can bring him back for 2026. Colorado cornerback D.J. McKinney is another prospect who has the requisite size and raw tools to be a developmental project behind Trey Amos and another veteran the team might bring in as a free agent, especially if the Commanders move on from Marshon Lattimore, as many expect this offseason.
BREAKING: NFL Superstar Justin Jefferson Makes Powerful Stand Against Racism – His Bold Statement Ignites a Social Media Firestorm and Sparks Nationwide Conversation
Minneapolis, MN – In a powerful and unflinching moment, NFL wide receiver
The statement, shared on Jefferson’s social media platforms, called for unity and change in a time when racial tensions continue to divide communities across the country. “Racism has no place in this world, especially not in the sport I love. We must stand together to create change, and it starts with each of us doing our part to fight for justice and equality,” Jefferson wrote in a post that quickly went viral.
The post resonated deeply with fans and athletes alike, generating millions of views and hundreds of thousands of comments, both in support of his message and from those calling for action. Jefferson’s words came at a time when conversations about racism in sports and society have intensified, making his statement even more poignant and timely.
“I’ve been fortunate to be in spaces where I’ve been accepted for who I am, but I know that’s not the reality for everyone. It’s time for us to listen, to act, and to make sure everyone, no matter the color of their skin, is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve,” Jefferson continued in his post.
The 25-year-old wide receiver’s bold stance has earned him widespread praise, with many noting that athletes like Jefferson have a unique opportunity to use their platforms to bring about positive change. “Justin’s bravery to speak out on such an important issue is something we all need to recognize,” said
However, Jefferson’s statement hasn’t been without controversy. Some critics have voiced their disagreement, with a minority questioning the involvement of athletes in political and social matters. But Jefferson, ever the leader, has made it clear that he won’t back down. “This is about human rights, not politics,” he said firmly. “If we stand silent in the face of injustice, we’re just as complicit. I’m not afraid to speak out, and I hope others will join me.”
The conversation surrounding Jefferson’s comments has not only ignited passionate debates but also sparked a wave of solidarity, with other athletes, fans, and organizations expressing their support. Social media platforms were flooded with hashtags like #StandUpWithJefferson, #JeffersonForChange, and #EqualityInSports, as people rallied around his message of unity and equality.
As Jefferson continues to rise as one of the most electrifying young stars in the NFL, his words and actions are proving that his influence extends far beyond the football field. The outpouring of support for his stand against racism is proof that athletes, especially those with global reach, can lead the way in the fight for justice.
“My hope is that we can all work together to create a world where racism is no longer a part of our society,” Jefferson concluded in his post. “It’s time for change. It’s time to stand up.”
