Did Commanders set up Jayden Daniels for success in 2026?

TL;DR

The Washington Commanders are evaluating their roster after the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on whether they have sufficient support for quarterback Jayden Daniels. While the defense has been strengthened, questions remain about the receiving options available to Daniels.

Key points

Commanders focused on improving defense during the offseason
Jayden Daniels needs more support at receiver
Terry McLaurin remains the established WR1
Commanders selected Antonio Williams in the third round
Potential interest in Brandon Aiyuk from the 49ers

Washington Commanders

The 2026 NFL Draft is securely in the rear-view mirror, free agency movement has stalled, and teams are ramping up for minicamps, OTAs, and training camp. This is the perfect time to break down rosters and see where players landed and how that impacts their new teams.

The Washington Commanders had several questions to answer during the offseason, and general manager Adam Peters did a decent job of answering those questions. Now that the draft has concluded, what is the biggest question the Commanders should be asking themselves? CBS Sports recently asked one glaring question for each NFL team and answered it.

Question: Does Washington have enough at receiver for Jayden Daniels?

Washington did a solid job this offseason of addressing its biggest weakness -- the defense. The Commanders brought in pass rushers Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, while using the No. 7 overall pick on Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. That should certainly help the unit be more respectable in 2026 after a 2025 campaign where they allowed the most total yards in the NFL. While that box is checked, there is a question now looming over the offense. Specifically, whether or not they have enough around Daniels. Of course, Terry McLaurin is still the established WR1, but there are no set-and-forget options behind him on the receiver depth chart. Washington did select in the third round, but it's hardly a guarantee he makes an impact in Year 1.

Q&A

What did the Washington Commanders do to improve their defense in 2026?

The Commanders added pass rushers Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, and selected linebacker Sonny Styles with the No. 7 overall pick.

Who is Jayden Daniels and what challenges does he face with the Commanders?

Jayden Daniels is the quarterback for the Commanders, and he faces challenges due to uncertainty around the depth and quality of the receiving options available to him.

Are the Commanders considering signing Brandon Aiyuk for the 2026 season?

Yes, the Commanders are seen as a likely suitor for Brandon Aiyuk if he is released by the 49ers, which could enhance their receiving corps.