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Although it has been five years since he last suited up for their organization, the Washington Commanders still take immense pride in former quarterback Robert Griffin III. The franchise is watching him like a proud father, as the Baylor alum suits up for 2026 Team USA flag football tryouts. Despite being six years removed from […] The post Commanders flex Robert Griffin III playing football again appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Since our lost NFL mock draft, there have been numerous significant roster transactions — including the blockbuster Jaylen Waddle trade. Now a month away from draft weekend, it’s the perfect time to run an updated 2026 first-round mock draft. Let’s dive right into it. Which prospects will go high in the 2026 NFL Draft? 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando MendozaFernando Mendoza (Photo by Imagn Images) This one is obvious and has been explained a million times. The Raiders need a quarterback, and despite pushback, Mendoza is heads-and-shoulders above every other signal-caller in the 2026 NFL Draft class. The Raiders hired Klint Kubiak to fill their head coaching vacancy. The cherry on top is giving the savvy offensive-minded head coach his quarterback. 2. New York Jets: Arvell ReeseArvell Reese (Image Credits: Imagn) There aren’t any guarantees after the Raiders and Mendoza, but Reese still feels like the best option for the Jets. Their defense needs new game-changers following the Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams trades. New York’s defense is multiple pieces away from returning to elite status, but snagging the Ohio State edge rusher is the way to start. 3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis MauigoaFrancis Mauigoa (Image Credits: Imagn) The Cardinals already have one budding star at offensive tackle in Paris Johnson Jr. Pairing him with the Miami product would give Arizona’s next signal-caller elite protection at the bookend spots. 4. Tennessee Titans: Rueben Bain Jr.Rueben Bain Jr (Image Credits: Imagn) New Titans head coach Robert Saleh is thrilled about the chance to work with Jeffery Simmons, and the John Franklin-Myers signing in free agency greatly bolsters the pass-rush. Well, the Titans could quickly turn this front seven into one of football’s best with the addition of Rueben Bain Jr. via the NFL Draft. He’s a day-one starter who would do plenty of damage on a defensive line anchored by Simmons, who’s never had the luxury of an elite pass-rusher teammate in Tennessee. 5. New York Giants: Caleb DownsCaleb Downs (Image Credits: Imagn) New Giants head coach John Harbaugh had the fortune of working with all-world safeties like Ed Reed, Eric Weddle, Earl Thomas, and Kyle Hamilton in Baltimore. So if the Ohio State product is still on the board here, the Giants have an easy decision to make. The Giants have quickly built up one of the league’s top pass-rushing units. Adding a five-star safety like Downs would be the finishing touch on turning this defense into one of the NFL’s best. 6. New Orleans Saints (From Cleveland Browns): David BaileyTexas Tech’s David Bailey rushes the Kent State offense during a non-conference football game, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium. Projected trade alert! The Saints acquire the No. 6 selection from the Browns in exchange for picks numbers 8 and 132 and a 2027 fifth-rounder. Knowing the Washington Commanders also need pass-rushing help, the Saints move forward to take the best edge rusher remaining. With Bailey in the fold, New Orleans now has Cam Jordan’s successor. And it’s a dandy. 7. Washington Commanders: Sonny StylesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The Commanders miss out on Bailey, but they can stand pat and let another game-wrecking menace fall into their laps. No harm, no foul. Dan Quinn has had the luxury of working with all-time great linebacker Bobby Wagner in both Seattle and Washington. Styles is a well-rounded linebacker who can replace the future Hall of Famer as the heart and soul of Washington’s rebuilt defense. 8. Cleveland Browns (From New Orleans Saints): Carnell TateOhio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate (17) catches a touchdown pass during the first half of the NCAA football game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Oct. 4, 2025. The decision to drop two spots works well for the Browns. They get two extra picks in the draft and still snag the best wide receiver available. There’s a nice foundation on offense here with Jerry Jeudy, Harold Fannin Jr., and Quinshon Judkins. Adding an explosive pass-catcher like Tate could take the offense to another dimension, provided, of course, that the Browns find a suitable QB option. 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Jordyn TysonJordyn Tyson (Image Credits: Imagn) Marquise Brown is gone. Rashee Rice is facing more off-the-field issues. Xavier Worthy hasn’t come as advertised. Other than that, the Chiefs’ receiving corps doesn’t look so bad. KC bolstered its ground game by signing Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker III. They can put the last touch on reshaping the offense by taking the big-bodied receiver who should quickly slot in as Patrick Mahomes’ new WR1. 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Keldric FaulkAuburn Tigers defensive end Keldric Faulk (15) blitzes as Auburn Tigers take on Ball State Cardinals at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025. Auburn Tigers defeated Ball State Cardinals 42-3. After losing Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals quickly pivoted to cheaper signings like Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen to fix the pass rush. Well, this would be a heckuva third “pivot” move if the Bengals landed the 6-foot-6, 285-pound edge rusher out of Auburn. And if 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart came as advertised? Woah mama. 11. Miami Dolphins: Makai LemonMakai Lemon (Image Credit: Imagn) After cutting Tyreek Hill and trading Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos, the Dolphins have a pressing need for WR help. Fortunately for Miami, the board plays out in their favor and ensures they come away with one of the “big three” receiver prospects. With Tyson and Tate off the NFL draft board, the Dolphins don’t have to hesitate to turn in the draft card. After all, when life gives you lemons… 12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor DelaneSep 13, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Mansoor Delane (4) reacts to Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (not pictured) making an incomplete pass during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images Dallas is a team to watch closely, with a pair of first-round picks in Jerry Jones’ pocket. But with Trevon Diggs long gone, the Cowboys are lacking a playmaking cornerback to keep the secondary intact. He already signed ex-Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson to bolster the secondary. Adding a capable shutdown corner could be the last move required to help Dallas’ defense regain that elite form we saw under Dan Quinn for three years. 13. Minnesota Vikings (From Los Angeles Rams via Atlanta Falcons): Jeremiyah LoveJeremiyah Love (Image credit: Imagn) Trade alert! The Vikings land the No. 13 pick from the Rams in exchange for the No. 18, No. 82, and No. 196 picks. With the pick, the Vikings turn the NFL draft upside down by taking Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Because why wouldn’t you pair a generational RB prospect with an offense already featuring Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison? Surely, one of Kyler Murray or JJ McCarthy would make the most of this star-studded supporting cast… Right? 14. Baltimore Ravens: Spencer FanoSpencer Fano (Image Credits: Imagn) Losing Tyler Linderbaum in free agency hurts, but the Ravens can reduce some of the damage via the NFL Draft by pairing the Utah offensive tackle with veteran mainstay Ronnie Stanley Jr. Fano is the complete package who will bolster the pass protection but also open up more running lanes for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. It’s the perfect match! 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jermod McCoyTennessee defensive back Jermod McCoy (3) before a college football game between Tennessee and UAB at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Sept. 20, 2025. The Buccaneers lost top cornerback Jamel Dean to the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. That’s especially tough to stomach when you remember that Tampa’s pass defense still sucked WITH Dean. SO yeah, help is desperately wanted at the corner. This year’s class is deep with quality defensive backs. Todd Bowles would love this well-rounded corner who racked up seven pass breakups and four picks in his final year of college ball. 16. New York Jets (From Indianapolis Colts): Avieon TerrellClemson cornerback Avieon Terrell (8) during Spring Practice in Clemson, S.C. Monday, March 24, 2025. After trading All-Pro corner Sauce Gardner to the Colts, the Jets fittingly use the draft pick they got from Indy on a new hopeful shutdown corner. Terrell had 25 pass breakups, four sacks, eight forced fumbles, and three interceptions in his three years at Clemson. A complete package guy like Terrell would instantly make an impact in Gotham. 17. Pittsburgh Steelers (From Detroit Lions): Ty SimpsonAlabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) rolls out to pass during the second half against the Missouri Tigers at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images Projected trade alert! The Steelers acquire the No. 17 pick from the Lions in exchange for selections No. 21 and 85. With a trio of third-round picks this year, Pittsburgh can afford to make a big splash in round one. So, the Steelers shake up the NFL draft big time by moving four spots to select the second-best QB available. There’s their long-term quarterback solution as they await final word from Aaron Rodgers. Even if Rodgers returns, he’s got one year left MAX. Simpson is the long-term guy for Mike McCarthy. 18. Los Angeles Rams (From Minnesota Vikings): Olaivavega IoaneDec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane (71) against the Boise State Broncos during the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images With Kevin Dotson and Steve Avila entering the final year of their contracts, this is a good opportunity for the Rams to think long-term and draft a succession plan for their NFL squad. As good as Dotson and Avila have been, neither has the upside of the Penn State product. With no immediate weaknesses on their roster, the Rams can bank on long-term upside and take their time developing Ioane. 19. Carolina Panthers: Kadyn ProctorSep 27, 2025; Athens, Georgia, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) celebrates with quarterback Ty Simpson (15) after defeating the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Bryce Young went from a horrible offensive line to a half-decent one in one year. The result? A career year that led Carolina to a surprise NFC South division crown, its first title in a decade. So, imagine what Young could do if Carolina’s offensive line takes yet another step forward? Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor is listed as a tackle but can also shift to guard. That versatility would make him a valuable weapon for an up-and-coming Panthers squad. 20. Dallas Cowboys (From Green Bay Packers): T.J. ParkerT.J. Parker (Image Credits: Imagn) Trading for Rashan Gary was a nice way to bolster the Cowboys’ pass-rush. But, we can’t help but wonder how much this D could take off if Jerry Jones added a player like Parker to complement Gary AND Quinnen Williams. Now you’d have three capable game-changing pass-rushers. Just like that, Gary, Williams, and Parker make the Micah Parsons trade look a lot better for Dallas. 21. Detroit Lions (From Pittsburgh Steelers): Caleb LomuOct 11, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Arizona State Sun Devils with Utah Utes offensive lineman Caleb Lomu (71) during the second quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images The Lions released fan favorite Taylor Decker in a surprise move. That came a year after Frank Ragnow retired, leaving Detroit’s once-elite offensive line in limbo. Well, the decision to trade down for Pittsburgh works out nicely as they watch Utah product Caleb Lomu slip on the blue and white jersey. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Cashius HowellNov 15, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive end Cashius Howell (9) reacts after a defensive play during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images The Chargers brought back Khalil Mack, yes, but they need more edge rushers to break through in a crowded AFC. Texas A&M product Cashius Howell fits the bill here. Another hard-hitting, plug-and-play guy who fits the mould of a Jim Harbaugh-coached defense. 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Denzel BostonSep 6, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) returns a punt for a touchdown against the UC Davis Aggies during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images Regardless of how the AJ Brown drama plays out, it’s clear the Eagles sorely need more receiving help. Here’s Howie Roseman’s chance to get another playmaking weapon on a rookie deal. Boston averaged 14.2 yards per catch in his final season at Washington. His ability to stretch the field could easily solve Philly’s struggles in the aerial attack game. 24. Cleveland Browns (From Jacksonville Jaguars): Monroe FreelingNov 9, 2024; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Monroe Freeling (57) blocks during the first half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images The Browns lost Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller and tried to find reinforcements by signing Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins. It’s a start, but they need more juice up front via the NFL Draft. Georgia’s Monroe Freeling is another capable day-one starter who will provide ample protection up front for Cleveland’s next starting QB. His run-blocking needs work, but the pass protection skills are worth banking on. 25. Chicago Bears: Peter WoodsPeter Woods (Image Credits: Imagn) If there was one weakness on the surprising 2025 Bears, it was the lack of pass-rushing depth after Montez Sweat. That can be addressed immediately here by taking the 315-pound defensive tackle out of Clemson. Woods would fix up Chicago’s leaky run defense while providing more pass-rushing support alongside Sweat. 26. Buffalo Bills: Dillon ThienemanDillon Thieneman (Image Credits: Imagn) The Bills’ secondary has gotten worse with each passing year. And we’re not sure it can improve much, with this current group, now that defensive wiz Sean McDermott is no longer here to help. Buffalo addressed its need for a receiver by acquiring DJ Moore from the Bears. They can focus on their next major issue, the secondary, by grabbing this do-it-all workhorse out of Oregon. 27. San Francisco 49ers: K.C. ConcepcionKC Concepcion (Image Credits: Imagn) Now that we know Brandon Aiyuk is DEFINITELY not returning to the 49ers, they have an easy call to take the best remaining wide receiver here. Yes, the 49ers signed Mike Evans in free agency. But like All-Pro tight end George Kittle, Evans is in his mid-30s and carries plenty of injury risk. The 49ers can draft and develop Concepcion to eventually take over as the long-term WR1 that Aiyuk couldn’t become in the NFL. 28. Seattle Seahawks (From Houston Texans): Colton HoodSep 27, 2025; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Colton Hood (8) runs with the ball after an interception against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first half at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images Projected trade alert! The defending champs acquire the No. 28 pick from the Texans in exchange for the No. 32 selection and a 2027 third-round pick. Seattle makes the aggressive move for another stud defensive back after losing Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant in free agency. Their secondary won’t miss a beat with Hood, Devon Witherspoon, and Nick Emmanwori leading the way. 29. Kansas City Chiefs (From Los Angeles Rams): Brandon CisseBrandon Cisse (Image Credits: Imagn) It’d be a surprise if the Chiefs didn’t use one of their first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft on a corner after trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams, who also signed away another stud KC cornerback in Jaylen Watson. Cisse might be a bit of a reach here, but the Chiefs develop talent better than any other franchise. Even if he has some growing pains as a rookie, it’s worth betting on his upside. 30. Miami Dolphins (From Denver Broncos): Blake MillerClemson offensive lineman Blake Miller (78) during Spring Practice in Clemson, S.C. Monday, March 24, 2025. The Dolphins signed Malik Willis to be their new QB1. We had them using the No. 11 pick on a receiver. Now they can shift the attention toward rebuilding a leaky offensive line. Clemson’s Blake Miller earned back-to-back First Team All-ACC selections in 2024 and 2025. He might not be a day-one starter, but the rebuilding Dolphins don’t have to rush him into the lineup. They can be patient with his development. 31. New England Patriots: Kenyon SadiqKenyon Sadiq (Image Credits: Imagn) Judging by their moves in free agency, it looks like the Pats will wait until the NFL draft to bring in more weaponry for Drake Maye. That’s fine as long as they use the picks wisely. Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq would be an excellent value pick here. If other teams aren’t valuing tight ends this year, it would work out very well for the defending AFC champs. Sadiq could immediately step in as the Pats’ top receiving target. 32. Houston Texans (From Seattle Seahawks): Omar Cooper Jr.Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana wideout Omar Cooper Jr. (WO17) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images Trading down proves worthwhile for the Texans, who get a quality wide receiver that the offense sorely needs. CJ Stroud really missed Tank Dell last year, and his game was terrible when opposing defenses contained Nico Collins. Stroud could regain that star-like form from 2023 with a player like Cooper taking the pressure off of Collins.
NFL Draft expert predicts Commanders to make controversial mistake in latest 7-round mock draft, which would waste a top pick A to Z Sports
NFL Draft expert predicts Commanders to make controversial mistake in latest 7-round mock draft, which would waste a top pick A to Z Sports
Athlon Sports NFL Draft expert Luke Easterling puts on his GM hat for every team picking in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft with this updated projection.
It was all in good spirits when longtime Denver Bronco Von Miller played an April Fool’s prank on Instagram, posting that he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.Even Tom Brady and Maxx Crosby were in on the joke, with Brady commenting,”🔥🔥🔥” and Crosby commenting, “👀👀👀👀🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.”But despite the prank, a lot of Raiders fans are curious […] The post Is Von Miller A Genuine Option for the Raiders Despite Recent News? appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Washington Commanders have been dubbed the top landing spot for a recent All-Pro wide receiver if he hits free agency in the coming weeks. The post Commanders Pitched on Reuniting Jayden Daniels, $120 Million All-Pro WR appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Kansas City Chiefs are predicted to trade out of the top 10 and pick up a second-rounder in return, then draft an offensive tackle with elite upside. The post Chiefs Predicted to Trade Out of Top 10, Land Elite Left Tackle appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Washington Commanders are "planning" a new defense after signing veteran defensive tackle D.J. Davidson. The post Commanders ‘Planning’ New Defense After D.J. Davidson Signing appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Dan Quinn gives insight into uncertain position for Commanders, but also hints at possible move that could change everything A to Z Sports
Dan Quinn gives insight into uncertain position for Commanders, but also hints at possible move that could change everything A to Z Sports
April 1 is a day when you have to stay skeptical of things you see on the internet, especially when it comes to sports. NFL teams have already tried to pull some jokes, with the Cleveland Browns hilariously posting a fake picture of new helmets, and players have also joined in on the fun, with […] The post Von Miller trolls Broncos fans with Raiders April Fools’ Day gag appeared first on ClutchPoints.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported former Washington Commanders wide receiver K.J. Osborn signed a 1-year contract with the Tennessee Titans. The post Ex-Commanders WR Lands With AFC Foe: Report appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Commanders 7-Round 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Washington lands elite talent with limited draft picks to help Jayden Daniels succeed A to Z Sports
The Washington Commanders have already been busy this offseason. Washington made some big moves during NFL free agency, adding multiple playmakers to upgrade their defense. Now the Commanders have added even more depth on their defensive line with their latest acquisition. The Commanders signed free agent defensive tackle D.J. Davidson on Tuesday, per ESPN’s Adam […] The post Commanders land DL depth with ex-Giants draftee appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Commanders' Brandon Aiyuk waiting game gets update from ESPN insider sportingnews.com
NFL Mock Draft 2026: Complete 7-round edition sends Ty Simpson to Jets, Jeremiyah Love to Commanders sportingnews.com
Netflix is entering the final year of its current deal with the NFL for two Christmas Day games. The league, however, has made it clear they intend for the day to always be a tripleheader moving forward, as it was this past season. While Prime Video had the rights to last season’s third Christmas game,…
NFL Draft intel shows Commanders have strong interest in severely underrated prospect who could fix biggest need A to Z Sports
Washington Commanders predicted to draft Jeremiyah Love at No. 7 overall to provide Jayden Daniels a backfield presence.
An NFL.com trade proposal swaps Lions TE Sam LaPorta for Commanders TE Ben Sinnott & gives Detroit Top 10 pick in 2026 NFL Draft. The post Lions Trade Pitch Swaps Sam LaPorta for Young TE, Gives Detroit Top-10 Pick appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters must initially deal with a numbers game. Without a second-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the franchise needs to be even more diligent in its selections. Provided the team does not make any trades, they will have a 64-spot gap between their first-round selection at No. 7 and […] The post Commanders Predicted to Select WR to ‘Beat Up Defenders Opposite Terry McLaurin appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Justin Jefferson are just a handful of young NFL stars who showed that you oughta believe the hype when they produce early. Then again, former so-called “future stars” like Robert Griffin and Sam Bradford serve as cautionary tales that a hot start doesn’t mean long-term success in the pros. With that, let’s dive into five young NFL stars who will become Hall of Famers, and five hype machines that will fizzle out soon. Which young NFL stars will be Hall of Famers and which ones will not? Become A Hall Of Famer: Drake MayeDrake Maye (Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images) We know that the loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60 was tough for New England Patriots fans to watch. Now, try imagining how painful it was for Maye. Maye stood no chance behind that vaunted Seattle defense, taking six sacks and turning the ball over three times. But you wanna know something funny? John Elway lost his first three Super Bowls before winning two of his own. The Patriots had zero expectations in 2025. Maye finished second in MVP voting behind Matthew Stafford after throwing for 4,394 yards and 31 touchdowns against only eight interceptions. His Pats were one win away from a seventh Lombardi Trophy. Don’t you think for a minute that this was peak Drake Maye? Folks, it was only the beginning. Maye and Mike Vrabel are just starting their operation together. And the Patriots’ offensive line can only get better after being ripped apart in the postseason. And yeah, the weaponry around Maye will get better. Stefon Diggs isn’t gonna be his only Pro Bowl-caliber receiver. It’s more than talent and stats. It’s poise, calmness, and swagger. Maye showed he had it all in year one. We would not be shocked if he won multiple Super Bowls and MVP awards. So, Canton members, feel free to get an early head start on that Hall of Fame bust. Fizzle Out: Jayden DanielsWashington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images) Daniels had arguably the greatest rookie quarterback season ever in 2024. The former No. 2 pick and 2023 Heisman Trophy winner completed 69 percent of pass attempts for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only nine interceptions to go along with 891 rushing yards and six rushing scores. Daniels led Washington to a 12-5 finish, their best record since 1991. He led them to a thrilling Wild Card Round victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington’s first playoff win in 19 years. Continuing the magic, the Daniels’ Commanders shocked the 15-win and top-seeded Detroit Lions in the Divisional Round. The magical run ended with a blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship Game, but it nonetheless appeared to be the start of something special in DC. Unfortunately, Daniels’s sophomore season was a nightmare in every aspect. He was limited to three games because of hamstring and knee sprains as well as a dislocated elbow. And don’t mind us for already fearing that Daniels could be the next Robert Griffin III in Washington. Like RG3, Washington showed zero concern or regard for Daniels’ well-being last season. And in hindsight, we should have realized that 2024 was a fluky year, where Washington broke the analytics with their unsustainable success on fourth-down plays. Also, the Commanders’ roster is lousy outside of Daniels and Terry McLaurin. Their three NFC East rivals all have much deeper rosters and more cornerstone pieces. So, don’t mind us thinking that 2024 was peak Jayden Daniels. Not like Washington’s got a rich history of developing star NFL QBs these days, too. Become A Hall Of Famer: Will Anderson Jr.Dec 25, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) reacts after a play during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images The Houston Texans got bold at the 2023 NFL Draft. After using the No. 2 pick on Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud, they traded up via the Arizona Cardinals to select Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. at No. 3 overall. While Stroud has been a model of…inconsistency…Anderson Jr. already looks like someone who’ll take JJ Watt’s status as the Texans’ franchise GOAT. No, it’s not too early to say that after three seasons. Anderson has been a game-wrecking menace, with 30 sacks, six pass breakups, and four forced fumbles over his first three seasons. Houston also reached the Divisional Round in each of Anderson’s first three seasons. No small feat for a franchise that only had four playoff wins over its first 18 years of existence. Credit head coach DeMeco Ryans for helping unlock Anderson’s potential. The 2025 Texans’ defense was one of the best ever, and Stroud’s lousy postseason performance doesn’t take that away. We’re still waiting to see what the deal is with Stroud. But Anderson, at this rate, looks like a lock for Canton. Fizzle Out: Jordan AddisonMinnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison (Matt Krohn-Imagn Images) Addison looked like a budding NFL star after a phenomenal 2023 rookie season. Even though the Minnesota Vikings had to use four different starting quarterbacks that year, Addison still finished with 70 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns. If Addison could post those numbers with guys like Josh Dobbs and Nick Mullens throwing to him…just what could he do with a capable starting quarterback? Not much, apparently. Before the start of the 2024 season, Addison was arrested in Los Angeles for suspicion of driving under the influence. It was only the start of his off-the-field issues. He missed two games in 2024, but the 63-875-9 stat line was still a disappointment, considering how excellent Sam Darnold was behind center for the Vikings in 2024. Addison struggled through a forgettable 2025 season, catching 42 passes for 610 yards and three touchdowns. He was also credited with six drops. A week after the Vikings’ 2025 campaign ended, Addison was again arrested for misdemeanor trespassing in Tampa. Another terrible look for a receiver whose production has declined in consecutive seasons. So, we’re just left thinking maybe Addison isn’t the star that looked to be in development in 2023. The production isn’t there. The off-field issues for a player this young are awfully concerning, too. Maybe Addison as an NFL superstar just wasn’t meant to be… Become A Hall Of Famer: Caleb WilliamsJan 5, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images The Chicago Bears have been a quarterback graveyard for decades. But it looks like the No. 1 pick of the 2024 NFL Draft will buck the trend as he’s a bona fide star. Williams had a superb rookie season despite coaching malpractice — hi Matt Eberflus! — and taking a league-high 68 sacks. He threw for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. Of course, the party really started after the Bears hired Ben Johnson. He helped Williams take his game to another level in 2025, throwing for 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns, and seven picks. Williams had six fourth-quarter comebacks in the regular season. To say nothing of that epic comeback win over the archrival Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round — and the NEAR-MIRACLE comeback in an overtime loss to the Rams in the Divisional Round. Williams has displayed all-world quarterback play since coming to Windy City. He was this-close to getting them to the NFC title game in his sophomore year. And his partnership with Johnson is just getting started. You see the jaw-dropping quarterback play, clutch genesis, and ridiculous poise. Yeah, the Bears are gonna send a QB to the Hall of Fame in the 21st century, folks! Ya better believe it. Fizzle Out: Kayvon ThibodeauxJun 17, 2025; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) speaks at a press conference during minicamp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images It’s easy to forget now, but Thibodeaux was once considered an early front-runner to go first overall in a relatively weak 2022 NFL Draft. The Jacksonville Jaguars would use the top pick on Travon Walker, with Thibodeaux eventually going fifth overall to the New York Giants. Thibodeaux showed some flashes in his rookie year, but he looked like a future superstar with an excellent 2023 season. Thibodeaux finished with 11.5 sacks, four pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. But it’s been downhill for the Oregon product ever since. Injuries limited him to 22 games over the 2024 and 2025 seasons. He was hardly noticeable with eight sacks in those games. And his Pro Football Focus metrics haven’t been pretty. Thibodeaux has had four years now to put it together. Instead, he looks like a rotational player at best. Become A Hall Of Famer: Kyle HamiltonNov 7, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton (14) reacts after tips a Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) pass during the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images Hamilton was considered a top-five prospect entering the 2022 NFL Draft. But fortunately for the Baltimore Ravens, other teams didn’t value the safety position that early. So, the Notre Dame product fell right into their laps at No. 14 overall. The fit has been perfect, as everyone expected. Hamilton has made a strong case as arguably the best defensive back in the NFL and certainly the best star safety by a country mile. Hamilton has been lights out in coverage, pass rushing, and run defense. Through four seasons, the three-time Pro Bowler had five interceptions, 36 pass breakups, six forced fumbles, and eight sacks with only a 76.8 passer rating allowed when targeted. All of this accomplished before his 25th birthday? Yeah, this kid is definitely in the Hall of Fame. But can he follow the footsteps of Ravens legend and Hall of Fame safety Ed Reed and eventually claim a Super Bowl championship ring? Fizzle Out: C.J. StroudHouston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (Barry Reeger-Imagn Images) The year before Jayden Daniels went off, Stroud put together his own season that many viewed as the best rookie QB campaign in NFL history. Despite missing two starts, Stroud threw for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and only five picks for a passer rating of 100.8. Stroud led Houston to the AFC South division crown and a wild-card round victory over the Cleveland Browns before bowing out to the Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional Round. Despite playing all 17 games in 2024, however, Stroud actually finished with fewer passing yards and touchdowns at 3,727 and 20, respectively. His passer rating fell to 87.0. Then in 2025? Stroud missed three games, had 19 touchdowns and eight picks. Then he wasted the Texans’ generational defense by self-destructing in their Divisional Round loss with four interceptions in a 28-16 loss to the Patriots. Houston’s got a stupendous defense and a good set of receivers. Stroud, however, has regressed more and more since his lights-out rookie year. And given his disappointing playoff performances up to this point, it’s safe to question if Stroud will ever become “the guy” in Houston. Or anywhere else… Become A Hall Of Famer: Puka NacuaJan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (17) celebrates after defeating the Minnesota Vikings during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images What more can be said about Nacua that hasn’t already been said? He’s thriving off the field, too. The Los Angeles Rams struck gold when they drafted Nacua in the fifth round — 177th overall — in 2023. See? There’s a reason why GM Les Snead gets away with trading first-round picks as they grow on trees… In 2023, Nacua set the rookie records for receptions with 105 and receiving yards with 1,486. Despite missing six games in his sophomore year, Nacua racked up 79 receptions for 990 yards and three touchdowns. Nacua was instrumental in Matthew Stafford claiming his first NFL MVP award in 2025. Nacua recorded a league-leading 129 receptions for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns to earn the first of many First-team All-Pro selections. Through three seasons, Nacua has 313 receptions for 4,191 yards and 19 touchdowns. In the postseason, he has 44 catches for 654 yards and three touchdowns. This is Justin Jefferson and Randy Moss-like production for a receiver before his 25th birthday, folks. NFL star, no doubt. Nacua is also in a good spot to keep on producing with Sean McVay running the offense. Honestly, three more seasons like this could be enough to get him in the Hall of Fame. Now, if Nacua could just get that Super Bowl ring while he has Stafford throwing to him… Fizzle Out: Rashee RiceKansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images) Rice’s rookie season couldn’t have gone a whole lot better. The No. 55 pick of 2023 emerged as the Kansas City Chiefs’ top wide receiver, catching 79 passes for 938 yards and seven touchdowns. Rice played a vital role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl 58 run, catching 26 passes for 262 yards and a touchdown. Kansas City defeated the San Francisco 49ers in overtime to repeat as Super Bowl champions, a feat that hadn’t been accomplished since the 2003-04 New England Patriots. Less than two months after the Chiefs’ Super Bowl 58 triumph, Rice was involved in a Dallas hit-and-run while racing his friend on a highway. He later pleaded guilty to a pair of felony charges and was sentenced to 30 days in prison. Rice was also suspended for six games in 2025. In Week 4 of the 2024 season, Rice suffered a gruesome knee injury that required surgery. That sidelines him for the rest of the year. He performed well in the eight games he suited up for in 2025. But that might be the last we see of Prime Rashee Rice. After the season, Rice’s ex-girlfriend accused him of viciously assaulting her during their relationship. She even posted photos showing the gruesome injuries as well as damage in her home, allegedly inflicted by Rice. After the Super Bowl, the ex-girlfriend filed a lawsuit against Rice. Rice clearly can’t be relied upon to have a clean act and focus on football. The Chiefs have faced plenty of criticism in the past for employing players with baggage like Tyreek Hill, Frank Clark, and Kareem Hunt. Can they really go through this again with Rice? It just feels like Rice’s problematic off-the-field behavior is bound to destroy what should have been a blossoming tenure in Kansas City. And sadly, the young star wouldn’t be the first player to throw away his NFL career with significant legal matters.
Makai Lemon is taking Top 30 visits ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Here are 4 potential team fits that could reshape passing attacks.
