Every offseason, Washington fans find themselves enamored with a draft prospect, and this year is no exception. Coming off a 5-12 season and holding a top-10 draft pick, the Commanders faithful are buzzing with anticipation.
The spotlight is on some intriguing prospects: Texas Tech's standout EDGE David Bailey, the athletic Sonny Styles, and cerebral Caleb Downs from Ohio State. Plus, there's Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
Before free agency kicked off, Washington had plenty of gaps to fill on the roster. With only two top 100 picks, the debate over how to use that seventh overall pick was intense.
However, after the first week of free agency, things began to crystalize. Adam “The Wizard” Peters worked his magic, transforming the roster with some savvy moves.
Key signings included:
- Extending Laremy Tunsil
- Adding Odafe Oweh, Chig Okonkwo, Leo Chenal, Nick Cross, K’Lavon Chaisson, Amik Robertson, Tim Settle, Charles Omenihu, Rachaad White, Dyami Brown
- Re-signing Chris Paul
Many of these acquisitions bolstered the defense, but Peters also aimed to give quarterback Jayden Daniels more weapons. Rumor has it that Washington made a strong push for Alec Pierce, offering more than the Colts did, and they were reportedly in the mix for Romeo Doubs, who ultimately signed with the Patriots.
Washington also brought in Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson on one-year deals and has been linked to 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings. They’re also favorites to land Brandon Aiyuk if he becomes available.
A major coup was signing tight end Chig Okonkwo. With 4.5 speed and a fierce playing style, Okonkwo is expected to be a key weapon underneath and in the red zone for Daniels. Veteran running back Rachaad White adds a receiving threat out of the backfield, filling a void left by Austin Ekeler’s Achilles injury last season.
Peters hasn't neglected the offensive line, either. Trading for and extending Laremy Tunsil was a masterstroke. The addition of Josh Conerly in the 2025 NFL Draft and re-signing Chris Paul to compete for the left guard spot have solidified the line, though center remains a concern.
Yet, the Commanders are still searching for a complement to Terry McLaurin. Enter Carnell Tate, a true junior from Ohio State, who could be just what Washington needs.
Carnell Tate:
- Age: 21
- Height: 6’2 1/4”
- Weight: 192 pounds
- Hands: 10 1/4”
- Arms: 31 3/4”
- 40-yard dash: 4.53
- Player comparison: Tee Higgins
Pros:
- Advanced route running
- Excellent hands
- Massive catch radius
- Ability to track deep throws
- Wins contested catches
- Solid blocker
Cons:
- Not a huge run-after-catch threat
- Wirey frame
- Lacks explosive burst
- Needs to improve play strength
Tate made an impact as a freshman at Ohio State, playing in all 13 games. Under the tutelage of renowned wide receiver coach Brian Hartline, Tate has developed into one of the draft's most polished route runners. His ability to manipulate defensive backs is exceptional for his age.
He excels in contested catch situations, showcasing excellent body control and natural hands-catching ability. Despite questions about his deep speed, Tate's performance on the field speaks for itself.
With Ohio State's stacked receiving corps, Tate has shared the spotlight, forming a dynamic duo with Jeremiah Smith. In Washington, he wouldn't need to be the primary target right away, allowing him to grow into his role alongside McLaurin.
Tate's willingness to block and his refined skills make him an ideal Z receiver. He could immediately become a valuable complement to McLaurin and, in time, take on a larger role.
Under new offensive coordinator David Blough, Washington's offense is expected to feature deep crossers, horizontal floods, and play-action shots - all areas where Tate can shine.
Adam Peters has shown a clear intent to bolster Washington’s passing game, and if Carnell Tate is available when the Commanders pick seventh overall, he could very well be the newest addition to the team.