Analysts, including Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic, believe Washington will prioritize defense early and is likely to stay at No. 7 unless an offer becomes too tempting to pass up. Staying put at seven could mean passing on a dynamic running back like Jeremiyah Love and leaning into a defensive-building strategy after the team struggled to contain both the run and the pass in 2025.
A potential Day One difference maker for Washington could be Caleb Downs, the Ohio State safety viewed by many as a top defensive addition. Downs is lauded for his intellect and leadership, with the versatility to play multiple roles in the secondary and even wear the green dot in Washington’s defense.
Downs’ on-field profile emphasizes his reliability and physicality. He has shown the ability to cover ground rapidly, delivered aggressive tackling, and avoided a high TD rate against passes, traits that could transform Washington’s pass defense and overall soundness in the secondary.
The draft plan could also reshuffle perceived starters as Washington adds youth to the defense. The Commanders signed K’Lavon Chaisson to add edge depth, while Dani Dennis-Sutton would bring a high-floor, development-ready option at outside linebacker. The contrast between a high-floor, versatile rookie and a more athletic, higher-ceiling pass rusher remains a key consideration for Peters.
Dennis-Sutton, a Penn State edge listed at 6’6″ and around 256 pounds with an 83-inch wingspan and 4.63 speed, offers rare burst and disruption potential. If he develops efficiently, he could push Chaisson for a starting role and provide Washington with a long-term answer on the edge, aligning with a broader strategy to strengthen the defense through a combination of early picks and developmental talent.
