Commanders Seek More Draft Picks to Address Roster Needs

Washington's limited draft capital prompts trade efforts to add Day 2 selections.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:57pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of an NFL Draft scene, with sharp planes of muted earth tones representing the strategic challenges facing the Commanders as they seek to maximize their draft capital.The Commanders' limited draft resources force them to explore creative trade options to build a more complete roster.Washington Today

The Washington Commanders have several holes to fill on their roster and are hoping to address those needs through the upcoming NFL Draft. With only six total picks and just two in the first three rounds, the team is exploring trade options to acquire additional Day 2 selections that could help replenish their depth.

Why it matters

The Commanders struggled with injuries and lack of depth last season, so adding more draft capital is crucial for them to improve the roster and avoid similar issues in the future. Finding a way to trade back and gain extra picks could allow them to target key positions like wide receiver and cornerback.

The details

According to ESPN's John Keim, the Commanders are hoping a team will be willing to trade up, allowing Washington to recoup a valuable Day 2 draft pick. However, Keim notes it may be difficult to entice teams to move up, as only one quarterback is expected to be selected in the top 10. Nonetheless, the Commanders are determined to be 'precise' in their draft approach to address pressing needs.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 27-29.

The players

Adam Peters

The general manager of the Washington Commanders.

Jayden Daniels

The Commanders' starting quarterback, who needs to stay healthy for the team to bounce back next season.

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What they’re saying

“'A team that is willing to trade up calls them, allowing the Commanders to recoup a Day 2 draft pick.'”

— John Keim, ESPN reporter

“'The Commanders need to be precise. Wide receiver and cornerback are two positions the team is expected to address with its top-100 picks. And like John said, Washington wouldn't mind trading back to grab an extra pick or two.'”

— Jordan Reid, NFL Draft analyst

What’s next

The Commanders will look to make trades during the 2023 NFL Draft to acquire additional Day 2 picks and address their roster needs.

The takeaway

The Commanders' limited draft capital puts pressure on them to be strategic in their approach, as they seek to leverage any potential trade opportunities to add depth and talent to a roster that struggled with injuries last season.