Former Washington coach approves of Commanders' UDFA wide receiver

The Washington Commanders held six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Before the draft concluded, Washington GM Adam Peters began the mad scramble to sign several undrafted free agents. While the team hasn't officially announced any signings, you can find a list of names the Commanders have agreed to terms with here.

One of the players Washington agreed to terms with is familiar to quarterback Jayden Daniels: wide receiver Chris Hilton. A four-star recruit from Zachary, Louisiana, Hilton was one of LSU's top recruits in 2021. Unfortunately, a meniscus tear in both knees led to a redshirt year after only four games played.

In 2022, shoulder labrum surgery limited Hilton to only four games. The 2022 season was Daniels' first at LSU after transferring from Arizona State. In 2023, Daniels' Heisman-winning campaign, Hilton played in 11 games, catching 13 passes for 225 yards and two touchdowns. He averaged over 17 yards per reception.

The injury bug struck Hilton again in 2024, limiting him to six games due to an ankle injury. He was finally healthy in 2025, playing in 13 games, catching 10 passes for 122 yards.

The 6-foot-0, 188-pound Hilton played in the Hula Bowl, where he was coached by former Washington head coach Jay Gruden. Upon seeing the Commanders had signed Hilton, Gruden gave his approval.

Injuries and a lack of production prevented Hilton from being drafted. That doesn't mean the talent isn't there. Hilton ran the 40-yard dash in 4.41 seconds at the 2026 NFL combine. Five of his six career touchdowns have come on plays 40 yards or more. You can bet Daniels also put in a good word for Hilton.

Here is NFL.com's Lance Zierlein's draft profile on Hilton.