ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders finished a miserable 5-12 last season, leaving quarterback Jayden Daniels running for his life. While GM Adam Peters spent the opening weeks of 2026 NFL free agency patching holes, the roster still lacks a finishing blow. Washington currently sits at No. 7 in the upcoming draft, but standing pat is a recipe for mediocrity. To truly protect their investment in Daniels, the Commanders must trade into the top three to snag Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa.
The Tunsil Extension was Just the Start
Peters didn’t hesitate to open the checkbook last month. He handed left tackle Laremy Tunsil a record-breaking two-year, $60.2 million extension, making him the highest-paid lineman in league history. It was a clear signal: the left side of the line is a fortress. Washington also retained guard Chris Paul and added cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon to stabilize a shaky secondary. These moves raised the floor, but they didn’t fix the glaring weakness on the right side of the trenches. Andrew Wylie has been a serviceable veteran, but he isn’t the long-term answer for a team with championship aspirations.
The Commanders need a bookend. They need a physical freak who can move defenders against their will. That man is Francis Mauigoa. At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Mauigoa is a mountain with the feet of a ballerina. He allowed just two sacks over his last two collegiate seasons. Pairing him with Tunsil would give Washington the most feared tackle tandem in the NFC East. It’s the kind of move that changes how defensive coordinators sleep at night.
“I’m tired of seeing Jayden take hits he shouldn’t have to take. We’ve got the pieces to be special, but it starts up front. If we want to dominate, we need dogs in the trenches. Period.”
— Anonymous Commanders Veteran Starter
The Cost of Greatness
Critics will point to the price tag. Moving from No. 7 into the top three likely requires surrendering a 2027 first-round pick and mid-round capital. It’s a heavy lift. However, the 2025 season proved that a “safe” approach leads to a 5-12 basement finish. Jayden Daniels is entering a crucial third year. He needs a pocket that doesn’t collapse the moment he hits his third step. Mauigoa isn’t just a prospect; he’s insurance for the franchise’s future.
If Washington stays at seven, they might land a blue-chip receiver like Makai Lemon or Jeremiyah Love. Those are flashy picks. But flashy picks don’t matter if your quarterback is on the injury report by Week 4. By trading up for Mauigoa, Peters can solidify the offensive line for the next decade. The time for half-measures ended when the clock hit zero on the 2025 season. It’s time to be aggressive.
