Commanders to host Nebraska All-American on official pre-draft visit

The Washington Commanders have been linked to Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love throughout the NFL pre-draft process, with many analysts noting how he'd be the perfect backfield complement to quarterback Jayden Daniels.

But there's a good chance that Love will be long gone when Washington goes on the clock in less than two weeks at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. In fact, Love could go as high as No. 4 to the Tennessee Titans, or No. 5 to the New York Giants.

The good news for the Commanders is that they don't feel they need to take a running back. Last season's rookie sensation, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, proved he belonged. This offseason, Washington re-signed Jeremy McNichols and signed Rachaad White and Jerome Ford in free agency. The Commanders like Love because he is an elite talent they may feel is too good to pass up, if he's available.

What if he's not? Will GM Adam Peters still target a running back? It's not considered a particularly deep class at the position, with Love being the only first-round prospect. His teammate, Jadarian Price, is the second-ranked back for many will likely hear his name called in the second round. The next-best running back, regardless of who you talk to, appears to be either Mike Washington (Arkansas) or Emmett Johnson (Nebraska).

Speaking of Johnson, the Commanders were one of at least five teams scheduled to host him on an official top 30 visit, per Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston.

Johnson is an interesting prospect. The 5-foot-10, 202-pounder was a part-time starter for the Cornhuskers before taking over as the full-time back in 2025. Johnson was outstanding, leading the FBS with 151.8 all-purpose yards per game. He also ranked fourth nationally with 1,451 rushing yards, averaging 5.8 per attempt and scored 12 touchdowns. He was named a second-team All-American.

Johnson isn't a home-run threat like Love. However, he's a good, steady and dependable back who, like Love, but to a lesser degree, can help in the passing game. Perhaps Johnson's best trait is his decisiveness and no-nonsense approach. He sees the hole, and there's no hesitation.

Washington is without a second-round pick, but Johnson could be a contender when the Commanders are back on the clock at No. 71. He is expected to go sometime on Day 2.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders to host Nebraska All-American RB Emmett Johnson