Pair of Buckeyes among latest batch of defenders projected to land on Washington Commanders in 2026 NFL Draft

Though the benefit was ending a two-month losing streak, the only downside to Washington's win in a lost season was the draft position lost - for now.

Washington moved from sixth to eighth overall in April's NFL Draft with the Giants, now possessing the longest losing streak in the league, still in line for the top overall pick. If the draft spot holds, it would mark the second time in three years and third time since 2020 that Washington drafted inside the top ten.

As for where Washington could turn in April, the early projections pointed to the offensive side of the ball with outlets split on Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate and Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, but those have since shifted to the defensive side of the ball since the 31-0 shutout loss at Minnesota. That hasn't too changed heading into week 16 with several defenders, including a pair of Buckeyes, projected to land in Washington.

Athlon: Auburn edge Kendrick Faulk

CBS Sports: Ohio State LB Arvell Reese

PFF: Ohio State safety Caleb Downs

Sports Illustrated: Ohio State safety Caleb Downs

Faulk is the lone player among the four listed whose college career is officially over with Auburn turning to Alex Goulash as its new head coach following a 5-7 finish. But Faulk proved to be a bright spot for the Tigers, ending his career with 109 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and ten sacks in 32 games. He ended his season named a Third Team All-SEC selection.

Downs, who a pair of outlets projected Washington to select, may be a best player available type of pick with Will Harris, Quan Martin and Jeremy Reaves all entering the offseason with another year on their contracts. But with Washington allowing the fourth-most passing yards per game in the NFL this season, Downs would be a big part in a needed refresh in the secondary.

Reese, debated alongside Miami (FL) defender Rueben Bain as the best prospect in the class, is coming off a monster regular season for the Buckeyes where he posted 10 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and 62 tackles, ranked top 15 in the Big Ten in both sacks and TFLs.

But could Washington end up trading back with just two selections across day one or two? That may be the biggest question ahead of several re-signing and extension decisions.

Projected top ten in 2026 NFL Draft after week 15: