Washington Commanders are showing strong interest in biggest 2026 NFL Draft sleeper who could instantly solve multiple issues
The Washington Commanders are doing their homework on the most underrated 2026 NFL Draft prospect, who could go from the biggest steal to an instant starter on defense to fix a premier position.
The Washington Commanders are looking to continue their roster overhaul this offseason after an active free agency period, and they have six picks to work with in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The draft is quickly approaching, and the Commanders’ front office and scouting department have been evaluating prospects in the draft for months. More recently, the team has attended pro days around the country to see certain prospects one last time and line up meetings to get to know them better.
They’ve shown a lot of interest in one underrated prospect who would be a homerun selection for the defense.
Commanders have shown a strong interest in Oregon DB Jadon Canady
The Commanders addressed the defense in free agency, especially the secondary, after adding safety Nick Cross and CB Amik Robertson. There’s still more work left to do, however, and the Commanders could select one underrated prospect to help solve their issues that remain.
After meeting with him at the Shrine Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine, the Commanders have met with Oregon DB Jadon Canady once again. Canady tells Justin Melo with NFL Draft on SI that he recently had a Zoom meeting with the Commanders as well.
Canady is listed as a CB, but he’s versatile and talented enough to cover a lot of ground, and play at multiple positions, and teams have even told him so.
How Jadon Canady can help the Commanders
The Commanders need to figure out their corner situation, and head coach Dan Quinn said that they will play Robertson and Mike Sainristil at outside and inside corner during the offseason. They also need a true free safety, which Canady can play as well.
Canady is a 5-10, 181-pound lockdown corner who is projected to play in the slot, where he thrives, but don’t be surprised if he moves around to safety as well. He’s elite in coverage and allowed just 104 yards, which is the fewest among all corners in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Canady has an insane pursuit speed and can cover a lot of ground out in space. He more than held his own against a top WR in the NFL Draft in Makai Lemon. He allowed a passer rating of just 39.4 for the entire 2025 season, and brings a lot of experience that Daronte Jones loves to see as well.
Canady would be the perfect fit for the Commanders, and it’s easy to see why they really like him. He would compete for the starting nickel spot and even fill in at free safety if needed.
Washington Commanders News
Commanders 7-Round 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Washington lands elite talent with limited draft picks to help Jayden Daniels succeed
The latest 7-Round 2026 NFL Mock Draft has the Washington Commanders taking a playmaker on offense and rounding out the defensive changes with new starters at key positions.
