Washington Commanders Look to Bolster Defense in 2026 NFL Draft

Team has multiple needs, including pass rusher, cornerback, and safety, as they aim to improve their struggling defense.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Washington Commanders have the 7th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and are looking to address several defensive needs, including at edge rusher, cornerback, and safety. The team finished second-to-last in yards per pass attempt faced last season, and their top pass rusher, Von Miller, is 37 years old. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore has also declined due to injuries, while safety Jartavius 'Quan' Martin struggled in coverage. Offensively, the Commanders need to add depth at running back and wide receiver to complement star wideout Terry McLaurin.

Why it matters

The Commanders' defense was a major weakness in 2025, and they need to find impact players in the draft to improve that side of the ball. Their pass rush and secondary were particularly problematic, so addressing those areas will be crucial if they want to compete in the NFC East. Offensively, they need to surround young quarterback Jayden Daniels with more playmakers to take pressure off McLaurin.

The details

The Commanders have several key free agents on defense, including linebacker Bobby Wagner and edge rusher Dorance Armstrong. Wagner is 36 years old, while Armstrong missed much of last season due to injury. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore has also declined in recent years due to injuries. The team needs to find a long-term solution at edge rusher, cornerback, and safety in the draft. Offensively, running back depth is a concern with Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Chris Rodriguez as the top options. Wide receiver is another need, as Terry McLaurin is the only established threat in the passing game.

  • The Commanders have the 7th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Bobby Wagner

A 36-year-old linebacker who played the most snaps for the Commanders' defense last season and is an impending free agent.

Von Miller

A 37-year-old edge rusher who led the Commanders in sacks with 10 last season.

Dorance Armstrong

The Commanders' best pass rusher last season, but he got hurt after 7 games and is in the last year of his contract.

Marshon Lattimore

A cornerback who is no longer playing at the same level due to injuries and is a potential cut candidate.

Jartavius 'Quan' Martin

A safety who allowed the 5th-highest passer rating in coverage last season and is still under contract.

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What they’re saying

“We might see more safeties drafted in Round 1 than quarterbacks and running backs combined.”

— Matt Miller, NFL Draft Scout (Twitter)

What’s next

The Commanders will look to address their defensive needs, particularly at edge rusher, cornerback, and safety, with their 7th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They will also need to add depth at running back and wide receiver to support young quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The takeaway

The Commanders' defense was a major weakness in 2025, and they need to find impact players in the draft to improve that side of the ball. Their pass rush and secondary were particularly problematic, so addressing those areas will be crucial if they want to compete in the NFC East. Offensively, they need to surround Daniels with more playmakers to take pressure off McLaurin.