The Washington Commanders are staring down a pivotal offseason, with big decisions looming and a roster that still needs plenty of work. But amid all the talk about edge rushers, corners, and offensive line help, one franchise legend is pushing for a bold move in the 2026 NFL Draft - a move that would definitely raise eyebrows.
Right now, Washington holds the No. 6 overall pick following a hard-fought overtime loss to the Broncos on Sunday Night Football. That puts general manager Adam Peters in a fascinating spot. He could stay put and grab a top-tier talent, or trade down to stockpile more picks - something that might be tempting, given the team currently has just six selections, with only two in the first four rounds.
But according to former quarterback and team icon Joe Theismann, the Commanders should think differently. He’s calling for Washington to use that premium pick on Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love - a player he believes is not just worthy of a first-round selection, but deserving of the Heisman Trophy.
“First of all, he should win the Heisman. He’s the best player in college football,” Theismann said in an interview with 106.7 The Fan.
“Secondly, he would look really, really good with a W on his helmet. And he’s a highlight film every week.
He reminds me of James Cook up in Buffalo. He’s got that kind of explosiveness, that kind of elusiveness, and that kind of power.
Plus, you know, he’s used to pass blocking as well.”
That’s high praise from a guy who knows a thing or two about evaluating offensive talent. Theismann sees Love as a complete back - someone who can break off chunk plays, catch passes out of the backfield, and hold his own in pass protection. In short, a plug-and-play weapon who could elevate an offense from Day 1.
And pairing him with Jayden Daniels? That’s a backfield combo that would get any offensive coordinator’s wheels spinning. Daniels’ mobility and playmaking paired with Love’s dual-threat ability could create one of the most dynamic 1-2 punches in the league - a nightmare for defenses trying to key in on either one.
But here’s the reality check: as things stand, the Commanders have more pressing needs. The roster still lacks top-end talent at edge rusher, cornerback, and linebacker - all premium positions that typically command early-round investment. And unless free agency brings in some serious reinforcements, it's hard to justify using a top-10 pick on a running back, no matter how electric he is.
There’s also the matter of the current backfield. If the team brings back Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jeremy McNichols, the urgency to add another back - even one with Love’s upside - becomes less immediate.
That doesn’t mean Love wouldn’t be a great fit or a future star. It just means the timing might not be right, especially with so few picks to work with.
Still, Theismann’s endorsement carries weight, especially coming from a fellow Notre Dame alum. He’s not just throwing out a hot take - he sees something special in Love, and he’s not alone. The running back has been turning heads all season, and if he keeps it up through the pre-draft process, his stock could climb even higher.
There’s a long road between now and draft night. Free agency will shift priorities.
Pro days and the combine will shake up boards. And Peters has shown he’s not afraid to think creatively when building a roster.
So while it might seem like a long shot today, don’t completely rule it out.
If the Commanders fill some key holes before April, and if Love continues to shine as a top-tier talent, this outside-the-box idea might not be so far outside the box after all. And if it does happen, you can bet Joe Theismann will be one of the first to celebrate.