Top 3 draft needs for Washington Commanders in 2026 after trade deadline

The Washington Commanders are in deep trouble at 3-7. Jayden Daniels is in the midst of a sophomore slump thanks to his injury troubles. The injury bug has hit more than just Daniels, with the wide receiver room in shambles. However, it might be time for the Commanders to turn the page and look to 2026.

Regardless of whether they can mount a comeback, the 2026 NFL Draft is coming all the same. As such, general manager Adam Peters has his work cut out for him. Here's a look at three position groups in need of fresh blood heading into 2026.

Von Miller at Chicago Bears v Washington Commanders - Source: Getty

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#3 - Linebacker

The Washington Commanders linebacking room is a museum of greats from the 2010s. They're still plenty productive with Von Miller still getting on the board with sacks and Bobby Wagner logging impressive tackle numbers, but it won't last forever.

Adding youth that can learn from Wagner and Miller could be huge in giving Dan Quinn another Legion of Boom-like run.

#2 - Offensive Line

The 2025 season revealed one thing about Jayden Daniels: his need to stay clean. The Washington Commanders can't add adamantium to his bones like Wolverine, but they can give him a better shield in the form of a fresher offensive line. It would help not only keep Daniels clean, but also open bigger holes for Jacory Croskey-Merritt.

If they can improve at running the ball, it would help keep Daniels from taking extra hits. Over time, that will help him stay healthy, and a healthy quarterback is a foundational ingredient to a playoff season.

Plus, with 31-year-old offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil heading for a potential exit window in his contract after the season (Spotrac), the Commanders could at least transition to a younger player cleanly if they elect to go with a tackle.

#1 - Wide Receiver

The wide receiver room is inching into a difficult situation. Terry McLaurin is now over the age of 30, and he may have hit the dreaded decline early. Deebo Samuel has also had injury trouble this season. The team was clearly interested in beefing up the wide receiver room by adding Treylon Burks, but they shouldn't stop there.

If McLaurin can give one more quality season in 2026 in combination with a rookie receiver breakout, the Washington Commanders will be tough to stop. Plus, the transition will be ready in 2027 if the Commanders can find a trade partner.

Edited by Ian Van Roy