The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is just hours away, and there is plenty of intrigue over what the Washington Commander could do with the seventh overall selection. After missing the playoffs and seeing their offense and defense decline massively, it is safe to say that the Commanders need help on both sides of the ball.
Still, Washington only has six draft selections overall, and moving up the draft board may not be an option for Commanders general manager Adam Peters. However, that's probably not what head coach Dan Quinn wants to hear, as he reportedly has his eye on a special talent for his defense.
According to NFL insider Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports, Coach Quinn "loves" Ohio State linebacker Sonny Stiles. Still, he says Washington "knows they need a WR and they've done a lot of work on Ohio State's Carnell Tate."
Both are expected to be in the top-10. Styles, even though he is a linebacker, could be a top-five selection, meaning Washington will have to move up to reach target Quinn Cowets.
As for Tate, it seems more realistic for him to fall to seven, but there is some discussion that Cleveland could select the Ohio State receiver at No. 6. However, finding a franchise for a tackle could influence their decision, leaving Tate to Washington instead.
Either way, it appears the Commander is entering Thursday night with an open mind, which is what you need to do when there are six other teams making selections before Washington.
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