Commanders reload for Jayden Daniels with explosive reunion in 2026 mock draft

Jayden Daniels carries the weight of an entire NFL franchise on his young shoulders. The Washington Commanders threw their weight behind the quarterback this offseason. Expect general manager Adam Peters to adopt a similar strategy when the 2026 offseason rolls around.

And one NFL Draft analyst thought reuniting Daniels with one of his old college teammates is an option to consider when the time comes.

There is a long way to go and a lot of football ahead before attention turns to the 2026 NFL Draft. Prospects will rise and fall throughout the college campaign. Some will take advantage of the ongoing NIL benefits to stay with their respective programs longer than expected. There are several moving parts, but Peters and his exceptional scouting department will be keeping a close eye on developments.

Commanders linked to Aaron Anderson in CBS Sports' 2026 mock draft

It's all guesswork from analysts at this early stage. Ryan Wilson from CBS Sports thought explosive wide receiver Aaron Anderson could be in play for the Commanders in his early mock draft, especially considering his previously developed chemistry with Washington's prized possession.

Undersized and twitchy with short-area quickness to win in small areas. [Aaron] Anderson will consistently create separation from the slot vs. off coverage, and he has an extra gear in the open field. Legit track speed on go routes, and he can run the entire route tree, though he will have the occasional focus drop.Ryan Wilson

Anderson and Daniels spent the 2023 campaign working together at LSU. The dynamic signal-caller won the Heisman Trophy that year, but the freshman was a limited contributor. He gained just 12 receptions for 59 receiving yards as others took center stage. But there was a lot more to like about his performance levels last season with increased responsibilities on his shoulders.

The Tigers gave Anderson a more influential role in 2024, and he responded accordingly to the tune of 61 catches for 884 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He could only be scratching the surface of what he's capable of, so watching his progress closely in the coming months wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.

Washington might not have the biggest need for another receiver next offseason. Terry McLaurin will get another deal at some stage. If Deebo Samuel Sr. bounces back to get his own extension, Noah Brown takes another step forward, and the young duo of Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane make their presence felt, it'll be down the list of priorities.

If not, then someone like Anderson enters the equation. But if his 2024 production is built upon next season, there's a chance he'll be long gone by the time Washington goes on the clock.

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