On offense, running back and wide receiver remain the top needs. The backfield lacks a clear starter, with Jacory Croskey-Merritt and several veterans who backed up in 2025. Rumors around top offensive players are common, but the organization remains focused on improvements at those two positions.
At wide receiver, Washington needs a reliable No. 2 opposite Terry McLaurin. Deebo Samuel is unlikely to return, and reports linking the team to Brandon Aiyuk have cooled as the 49ers pursue other options, making a 7th‑overall target a point of discussion for potential WR prospects.
If the Commanders were to pursue offense at No. 7, plausible targets would include Jordyn Tyson or Carnell Tate, though the defensive mandate casts stronger odds on defense aligning with organizational priorities.
Defensively, Washington still needs help along the defensive line, at linebacker, and in the secondary, including safety and cornerback. With no interior defensive lineman fitting this pick, Washington will likely look at players at the other three positions.
Three defensive prospects often discussed as fits are linebacker Sonny Styles, cornerback Mansoor Delane, and safety Caleb Downs. If they stay with the pick, Delane is viewed as the most likely, followed by Downs, then Styles.
