Commanders Weigh Options at Wide Receiver

Washington looks to bolster receiving corps ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:05am

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The Washington Commanders are actively exploring options to upgrade their wide receiver group this offseason. The team has re-signed some practice squad players, added veteran free agents Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson, and is rumored to be interested in 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk. However, the Commanders don't have picks in the 2nd or 4th rounds, limiting their draft options. Some notable free agent receivers like Jauan Jennings, Stefon Diggs, and Deebo Samuel remain unsigned, creating potential opportunities for Washington.

Why it matters

The Commanders' receiving corps is a key area of need as they look to build on a promising 2025 season. Improving the passing game could help take pressure off quarterback Sam Howell and elevate the entire offense. Finding the right mix of veteran talent and young potential will be crucial for Washington to compete in the NFC East.

The details

The Commanders have made some modest moves at receiver so far this offseason, re-signing practice squad players Ja'Corey Brooks and Jacoby Jones, as well as 2022 first-round pick Treylon Burks. They've also added free agents Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson, who have experience in the system. However, the team still has a clear need at the position, especially with the departure of Deebo Samuel. Rumors persist about a potential trade for 49ers wideout Brandon Aiyuk, but that may depend on what the Commanders do in the draft, where they don't have picks in the 2nd or 4th rounds.

  • The Commanders re-signed Treylon Burks on March 12.
  • The Commanders signed Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson as free agents this offseason.

The players

Treylon Burks

A 2022 first-round pick by the Titans who the Commanders signed in October 2025 after he was released. He played in 8 games for Washington last season, catching 10 passes for 130 yards.

Dyami Brown

A wide receiver who spent his first 4 NFL seasons with the Commanders after being drafted in the 3rd round in 2021. He has 59 catches for 784 yards and 4 touchdowns in his career.

Van Jefferson

A veteran wide receiver who has played for the Rams, Falcons, Steelers, and Titans over the past 6 seasons. He will turn 30 in July.

Brandon Aiyuk

A wide receiver for the 49ers who is expected to be released, making him a potential target for the Commanders in a trade or free agency.

Jauan Jennings

A free agent wide receiver who had a breakout 975-yard season for the 49ers in 2024, but remains unsigned.

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What they’re saying

“Jauan Jennings has outplayed his talent. Teams don't see him (Jennings) as a 900-yard receiver.”

— Matt Barrows, 49ers reporter

What’s next

The Commanders will continue to monitor the free agent market for potential receiver additions, while also evaluating their options in the upcoming NFL Draft. Their interest in Brandon Aiyuk could depend on what they are able to do in the draft to address the position.

The takeaway

The Commanders' receiving corps is a clear area of need this offseason, and the team is exploring various avenues to upgrade the position, from free agency to the draft. Their ability to find the right mix of veteran talent and young potential will be crucial to elevating their passing game and overall offensive production in 2026.