Commanders are showing strong interest in versatile playmaker who would be perfect 2026 NFL Draft pick to fix major need

The Washington Commanders have six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, and they have to nail as many of them as possible. After an active free agency period, the Commanders’ defense is much improved, but still has weak areas remaining. They’ve been doing their research on prospects in the NFL Draft by attending pro days, […]

Josh Taylor Washington Commanders News Writer
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Nov 1, 2025; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Jalon Kilgore (24) intercepts a pass intended for Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Winston Watkins (17) during the second quarter at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders have six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, and they have to nail as many of them as possible.

After an active free agency period, the Commanders’ defense is much improved, but still has weak areas remaining. They’ve been doing their research on prospects in the NFL Draft by attending pro days, meeting with players, and inviting them to Ashburn for a top-30 visit.

One player the Washington Commanders have shown a lot of interest in would be the perfect fit in Daronte Jones’ defensive scheme.

The Commanders have shown strong interest in DB Jalon Kilgore

The Washington Commanders are looking to continue adding to the defense, and one player who would thrive in Jones’ defense is DB Jalon Kilgore. Kilgore has been a fast riser throughout the draft process. He may not make it to pick No. 71 overall, but if he is, he might be the pick. NFL Draft analyst Aaron Wilson says Kilgore has a visit with many teams, including the Washington Commanders.

The Commanders added Nick Cross and Amik Robertson in free agency to boost the secondary, but Kilgore could still fill one void.

The Washington Commanders need Jalon Kilgore’s versatility

Daronte Jones described what he’s looking for on defense since the first day he arrived and Kilgore is the perfect prospect for his defense. Jones wants experience, versatility, speed, and high IQ, and Kilgore can do it all.

Kilgore is just turning 21 years old, and one of the most versatile defenders in the NFL Draft. He played primarily as a nickel CB at South Carolina, but he also has over 300 snaps at safety over the last two season. Some teams see him as a safety at the next level, but he can play both at 6-1, 211 pounds.

Kilgore is an athletic freak who ran a 4.40 40-yard dash with a 37″ vertical. He put up a 9.66 Relative Athletic Score, which the Commanders always love as well. He flashed his ball skills with seven interceptions over the last two seasons. Kilgore’s speed helps him cover a lot of ground in coverage along with his instincts.

Kilgore is also one of the best run-stopping defensive backs in the draft this year, which has been a weakness for Washington as well. He’s up there with Keionte Scott as options for the Washington Commanders at pick No. 71.