March 3, 2026, 9:24 p.m. ET
It’s now March, which means the 2026 NFL Draft will take place next month.
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine just wrapped up in Indianapolis, and we got to learn more about the top prospects in the class. Based off the performances and what interviews teams conducted during the combine, we can get a better idea of draft plans.
The Commanders own the No. 7 pick, and the majority of mock drafts this offseason have had the team selecting a defender. There are plenty of talented edge-rushers, linebackers, and defensive backs, all of which are positions the Commanders use.
Jordan Reid of ESPN recently published a post-Combine mock draft that still has the Commanders going defense first. In Reid’s mock, the team selects Ohio State defensive back Caleb Downs.
Regarding the Downs pick, Reid offered the following:
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
Downs is one of the smartest football players I’ve ever studied. His football IQ, versatility on the back end and sure tackling ability make him a worthy selection at this spot even though a safety hasn’t been drafted in the top 10 since 2017 (Jamal Adams). Washington gave up a lot of explosive passing plays last season, with opponents averaging 8.1 yards per attempt (third worst in the NFL). The Commanders also had a mere eight interceptions in 2025, which was the fourth worst in the league. Downs could help them improve in both areas.
As Reid mentioned, a safety hasn’t been drafted in the top 10 since Jamal Adams almost 10 years ago. That just goes to show how highly thought of Downs is, as Reid called him “one of the smartest” players he’s studied.
Downs also isn’t just a pure safety. The Ohio State product is capable of playing in the slot as well and he’s also not afraid to hit like a linebacker. In 2025, Downs played in 14 games for the Buckeyes and collected 68 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, and two interceptions.
Downs earned First-team All-American honors for the second season in a row and even received some Heisman votes. Pro Football Focus gave Downs a very solid 83.9 grade for his 2025 performance.
In Washington, Downs would start from day one and could immediately be a true difference maker. The Commanders gave up way too many big plays last season, and adding a player like Downs would help ensure that doesn’t happen again.