Latest mock has Commanders landing perfect Terry McLaurin partner

For months now, 2026 mock drafts have typically had the Washington Commanders selecting a defensive player in the first round.

That makes sense considering the team's defense was a massive disappointment last season, and head coach Dan Quinn is a defensive coach. However, the team made some notable additions in free agency and seemingly patched several holes.

Linebacker Leo Chenal, edge rushers K'Lavon Chaisson and Odafe Oweh, safety Nick Cross and cornerback Amik Robertson were all added to the team. As a result, it's now possible the Commanders would feel comfortable going offense in the first round instead.

NFL.com's Eric Edholm has the Commanders doing exactly that and selecting Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate at No. 7. Tate is widely considered to be one of the best receivers in this class and would seemingly pair perfectly with Terry McLaurin.

Regarding this fit, Edholm offered the following:

The Commanders really need a complement to Terry McLaurin. Tate naturally gains easy separation and generates big pass plays for his size, which is the kind of skill set Jayden Daniels could use.

As Edholm mentioned, the Commanders have to get better at receiver around McLaurin. Other than McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, who is not currently on the roster, no receiver on the team ended with more than 225 yards last year.

Tate, meanwhile, caught 51 passes for 875 yards and nine touchdowns last season at Ohio State. The receiver likely would've had even bigger numbers if he wasn't on the same time as elite receiver Jeremiah Smith. Still, Tate shined in his role and ended his college career with 1,872 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Tate has the speed to get open down the field but also has the ability to go up and make contested catches. In Washington, Tate would immediately be WR2 and be in a perfect position to take over for McLaurin in the coming years.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: New mock draft gives Terry McLaurin some help