Commanders walk into NFL Draft with Brandon Aiyuk-sized cloud still hanging
The Washington Commanders are mere hours away from taking what’s going to hopefully grow to be their subsequent franchise cornerstone at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. General supervisor Adam Peters could have a shortlist, and he’ll be able to strike with conviction based mostly on the crew’s assessments.
And he should get it proper.
That is the primary focus above all else. Even so, there’s one lingering cloud hanging over the Commanders that Peters can be preserving a detailed eye on as nicely.
Brandon Aiyuk.
Commanders will preserve tabs on Brandon Aiyuk, however a commerce stays unlikely
The San Francisco 49ers wish to commerce Aiyuk, sooner quite than later. General supervisor John Lynch revealed that conversations had taken place with potential suitors, however nothing concrete had emerged as but. I’ve acknowledged getting one thing finished during the draft is unlikelyhowever that will not cease them from attempting.
At this level, they’d be keen to just accept something.
A 2027 seventh-round decide? You’ve bought a deal. If they will get a Day 3 choice to make use of this 12 months, all the higher. That needs to be thought-about a win at this level, however the actuality could also be far totally different when it is all mentioned and finished.
Peters could have half a watch on the Ayuk state of affairs, one suspects. He is aware of the wideout wants to join Washingtonand he additionally is aware of that quarterback Jayden Daniels needs him right here. The Commanders are reportedly warming to the ideahowever they’re reluctant to take on the contract and half methods with draft capital to lastly finish this drawn-out cleaning soap opera as soon as and for all.
Whether Peters will change his thoughts if he hears {that a} crew has altered their fascinated with Aiyuk is anybody’s guess. He could be an asset, however his 1,000-yard receiving season of 2023 was a very long time in the past, and he is barely performed since then. Stranger issues have occurred, however the dangers far outweigh the rewards till additional discover.
Aiyuk is staying still. That’s the good play. Saying something at this juncture would solely improve the Niners’ bitterness. He’ll in all probability have quite a bit to speak about when his subsequent vacation spot is confirmed. But even then, no one will in all probability ever know what actually went down.
Peters could have a greater lay of the land than most. He’s well-connected to folks in San Francisco. Aiyuk’s finest buddy is Washington’s franchise quarterback. Whatever conclusions are reached won’t affect his draft strategyhowever he’ll in all probability have somebody preserving tabs on any developments.
And if the Niners do not get a proposal, the saga will proceed.
