The 2026 NFL Draft may be in the books, but the excitement around the Washington Commanders' rookie class is just heating up. While the team gears up for their rookie minicamp this weekend (May 8-9), ESPN analyst Matt Miller has released his highly anticipated Top 100 draft picks list—and three Commanders selections made the cut. Here's a closer look at the players, why they earned the nod, and what it means for the Burgundy & Gold.
Carson Styles, LB (Ohio State) – Pick 36, Round 2
Miller calls Styles a "future star at middle linebacker" and one of his favorite picks in the entire draft. Playing under defensive mastermind Dan Quinn, Styles' range and aggressive backfield instincts could make him a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate. Miller even compared him to Fred Warner. And honestly? The tape backs it up. Styles transitioned from safety to linebacker at Ohio State, quickly becoming the "green dot" play-caller and wearing the coveted Block O. If he's even half as productive in Washington as he was in Columbus, the Commanders have found a gem.
Jalen Tate, WR (LSU) – Pick 71, Round 3
Wide receiver was a quiet need for Washington, and they addressed it perfectly in the third round. Miller notes that the Commanders might have taken a receiver in Round 1 if Tate were available—but landing him at 71 feels like a steal. With no second-round pick, this selection was almost a must. Tate brings polished route-running and big-play ability to a receiving corps that could use a spark. Keep an eye on him as a potential sleeper in Quinn's offense.
Malik Rivers, CB (Alabama) – Pick 103, Round 4
Rounding out the trio is a physical cornerback from Alabama who fits the Quinn mold: tough, disciplined, and scheme-versatile. Rivers has the length and press-man skills to compete early in Washington's secondary. Miller praises his football IQ and ability to disrupt at the line of scrimmage—traits that could see him climb the depth chart faster than expected.
With three Top 100 picks on the board, the Commanders are quietly building a foundation that could pay serious dividends. Whether it's Styles anchoring the linebacker corps, Tate stretching the field, or Rivers locking down receivers, Washington's 2026 draft class is one to watch. And for fans looking to rep the next generation of talent, now might be the perfect time to grab that fresh Commanders gear.