Commanders bold predictions for 2026 NFL Draft class during rookie season

The Washington Commanders made an error in judgment in the draft, but they also had their good moments. Looking ahead, here are the Commanders’ bold predictions for the 2026 NFL Draft classic during its rookie season.

With just six picks at their disposal and missing rounds two and four, the Commanders faced a tough chore. They had a good start by getting Sonny Styles with the No. 7 overall pick.

From there, things didn’t always go smoothly. But how will this play out for the 2026 season?

LB Sonny Styles will be top three in DROY voting

Barring the Commanders making a move to re-sign Bobby Wagner, Sonny Styles will have an on-ramp to all the snaps he can handle. By sheer volume, he will put up numbers that land him in the defensive rookie of the year conversation.

Surrounded by veterans like Frankie Luvu, Leo Chenal, and Jordan Magee, Styles has teammates who can help him adjust to the NFL level. Analyst Logan Paulsen said Styles is the complete player, according to Commanders.com.

“From an athletic standpoint, from a length standpoint, Sonny Styles is a very unique prospect,” Paulsen said. “I hope I can articulate that. If you pull up his RAW, he is a 10 RAW (raw athletics Score). He is tall (and) heavy. He’s long (and) fast. You just don’t see players like this at this position and play the way he does.”

Last year, Carson Schwesinger of the Browns won the NFL defensive rookie of the year, totaling 156 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 tackles for loss. Styles is capable of making the same kind of imptact, maybe not in the volume of tackles. But he can put up stats in all areas of the defensive game.

WR Antonio Williams will catch 50+ passes, but have a low YPC

If Williams works into the starting lineup, he’s going to get targets and catches. And since his competition comes from guys like Luke McCaffrey, Treylon Burks, and Dyami Brown, that shouldn’t be a problem.

Unfortunately, Williams’ volume won’t necessarily be impactful. Look for him to make tough catches, move the chains, and perhaps become a Red Zone weapon.

In a best-case scenario, Williams could create enough problems for defenses that Terry McLaurin can have more freedom for big plays.

If new offensive coordinator David Blough uses him right, Williams might make a sprinkle of noise.

EDGE Joshua Josephs will get six-plus sacks

It may be a big ask for a fifth-round pick to make a sack impact. That’s especially true since he doesn’t have an instant path to high snap totals.

But if the Commanders can work through the rough edges with Josephs, they could unlock a good rookie season. One thing he needs is pass-rush refinement, according to NFL.com.

“He’s not a natural bender, so adding go-to moves, a functional inside counter, and better rush plans will be essential,” Lance Zierlein wrote. “With added weight and continued schooling, Josephs could deliver much more consistent production than he’s provided so far.”

RB Katron Allen will score eight-plus TDs

Just don’t count on a lot of yardage. Allen could wind up being the Commanders’ goal-line back at some point this season. And if the offense is as good as advertised, he should get plenty of opportunities.

But he’s not the type of player who will cut loose with big games overall, according to The Athletic.

“Allen isn’t an athletic freak like Singleton, but he has a better feel for the position and maximizes carries with his vision, physicality, and body control,” Dane Brugler wrote. “With his run instincts and blocking skills, he projects as a durable backup or low-end starter in the NFL.”

C Matt Gulbin will become at least a part-time starter

This isn’t an injury prediction. It’s an opportunity. The Commanders aren’t loaded in the interior of the offensive line. And coaches love steady players. Gulbin is the definition of steady.

Also, he brings versatility to the line, according to The Athletic.

“Gulbin is the only offensive lineman in this draft class who can say he has double-digit college starts at all three interior positions,” Brugler wrote. “He projects as a backup center in a gap scheme, while offering guard versatility.

“He plays with only average twitch and foot speed, which hurts his range, but is naturally smooth as a mover.”

QB Athan Kaliakmanis won’t make the Commanders’ roster

This is a bold prediction. That’s because NFL general managers are ego-driven. It’s hard for them to admit mistakes, especially quickly.

But the Commanders would have been much better off drafting Grant Nussmeier and signing Kaliakmanis as a free agent.

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