Andrew Buller-Russ
The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is just hours away, and there’s a lot of intrigue surrounding what the Washington Commanders may do with the seventh overall pick. After missing the playoffs and seeing their offense and defense decline in a big way, it’s safe to say that the Commanders need help on both sides of the ball.
Yet, Washington only has a total of six draft selections, and moving up the draft board may not be an option for Commanders general manager Adam Peters. However, that may not be what head coach Dan Quinn wants to hear, as he reportedly has his eye on a special talent for his defense.
According to Fox Sports’ NFL insider Ralph Vacchiano, coach Quinn “loves” Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. Yet, he adds that Washington “knows they need a WR and did a lot of work on Ohio State’s Carnell Tate.”
Both are projected to land in the top-10. Styles, even though he’s a linebacker, may be swept up in the top-five selections, meaning Washington may have to move up to land the target Quinn covets.
As for Tate, it feels more realistic for him to fall to seven, but there’s been some chatter that Cleveland could pick the Ohio State receiver at No. 6. Though, finding a franchise left tackle could sway their decision, leaving Tate for Washington instead.
Either way, it appears the Commanders are entering Thursday night with an open mind, which is exactly what you need to do when six other teams will be selecting ahead of Washington.
Related: Final 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting Round 1 With Trades
