The Washington Commanders lost again on Sunday. It was their sixth consecutive loss, but it wasn’t as bad as the previous four. Well, at least by score, anyway. After losing by 20 or more points in their last four games, the Commanders lost to the Dolphins 16-13 in overtime in the first-ever game in Spain.
For the players, whether it’s losing by one point or 50, a loss is a loss. Multiple losses in a row are brutal. They’re not focused on anything but getting a win.
Fans are different.
Remember in 2019, fans were rooting against Washington late in the season, hoping it would win the Chase Young lottery. The team did. How did that one turn out?
It was the same in 2023. The Commanders lost eight in a row to end the season. Fans wanted that No. 1 overall pick, while Washington had a lame-duck coaching staff. Washington landed the No. 2 overall pick and selected quarterback Jayden Daniels. That one paid off.
Now, the Commanders are 3-8, and fans have already turned their attention to the 2026 NFL draft. Can you blame them?
With each loss, Washington moves one step higher in the draft order. Entering Week 11, the Commanders held the No. 8 pick. After losing to the Dolphins, they moved up to No. 7, while Miami tumbled to No. 11.
The Commanders aren’t making the playoffs. While not mathematically eliminated yet, the postseason is a pipe dream. While teams do not acknowledge tanking, it happens, although it’s much less prevalent in the NFL. Do not expect the Commanders to tank. Head coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters are far too competitive. Plus, Washington believes it can get some players back after the bye and go on a winning streak. Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin are expected back sometime after the bye, pending medical evaluations.
This will be a pivotal offseason for Washington. You can probably expect another massive roster turnover. The Commanders could have over $100 million in cap space if they move on from a couple of veteran players. They currently have only six draft picks and are short on second and fourth-round selections due to the trade for Laremy Tunsil.
Will the Commanders go on a winning streak once Daniels and McLaurin return, or is this team destined to climb even higher in the NFL draft order?
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders move up another spot in 2026 NFL draft order
