Commanders' rookie named best value of 6th round in 2026 NFL Draft

New Washington Commanders running back Kaytron Allen had a stellar career at Penn State. A native of Norfolk, Virginia, Allen enrolled at Penn State in 2022. He immediately made his impact felt, rushing for 867 yards and 10 touchdowns as a true freshman.

He would improve in each of his next three seasons, rushing for 902 yards in 2023, 1,108 yards in 2024 and 1,303 yards in 2025. He'd finish his college career with 4,180 rushing yards and 39 rushing touchdowns. Allen also became Penn State's all-time leading rusher in 2025, an impressive feat, considering the number of elite running backs who've played for the Nittany Lions.

On Saturday, Allen's NFL dream came true when the Commanders selected him with the No. 187 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. And, according to ESPN NFL draft analyst Matt Miller, Washington received tremendous value. Miller and Jordan Reid named their best values of each round in the 2026 draft, with Miller naming Allen as his pick for the sixth round.

RB Kaytron Allen to the Commanders. Allen was ranked No. 123 on my board and was selected at No. 187. He could boost a Washington backfield that had enough of a running back need to be in the conversation as a potential landing spot for Love in Round 1.

Allen is entering a favorable situation. The Commanders currently have four running backs on the roster: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Jeremy McNichols and Jerome Ford. Of the four, only Croskey-Merritt is under contract beyond 2026. The Commanders would presumably prefer to keep their draft picks on the roster, meaning one of the veterans will likely be on the bubble.

Allen possesses outstanding vision, patience, and power. He brings something different to the table than Croskey-Merritt, meaning he could challenge for a role next season.