Andrew Buller-Russ
The Washington Commanders have been busy this offseason, targeting several upgrades to a defense that ranked 27th in points allowed in 2025. They’ve found several new defensive starters, including a pair of new edge rushers, a middle linebacker, and a pair of defensive backs. However, some would argue that more help is needed, especially in the secondary.
Yet, the Commanders’ front office has been staying busy, identifying potential upgrades through the pool of available 2026 NFL Draft prospects. There’s even one prospect they’ve invested a lot of time into.
According to Essentially Sports’ NFL insider Tony Pauline, the Commanders have been showing South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore “a lot of love”.
Kilgore may not be among the most discussed prospects, but as Pauline notes, “he’s been moving up draft boards.” South Carolina recently had their pro day, and Kilgore reportedly “looked terrific” doing defensive back position drills.
Kilgore’s college career started by being a freshman All-American as a safety. But after depth issues arose, he switched to corner in his senior season and still “excelled.”
The 6-foot-1, 210-pound defensive back has Top 30 visits scheduled with the Colts, Eagles, Panthers, Seahawks, and Texans. He also met with the Bengals, Dolphins, Jets, and Vikings at the South Carolina Pro Day.
While the Commanders appear interested in Kilgore, he’s not viewed as a first-round prospect. After they pick seventh, the Commanders don’t have another selection until the third round at No. 71 overall, when Pauline says Kilgore is “expected to be off the board.” Thus, if Washington wants him, they’ll have to either trade up from 71, or possibly trade down from 7 to acquire another pick in between.
Related: Washington Commanders Strongly Linked to Former All-Pro Wide Receiver
