New NFL Draft Rumors Reveal Commanders' Preference at WR Between Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson

The Washington Commanders are "absolutely" in on Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate over Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson if he's on the board at the No. 7 pick, according to The Ringer's Todd McShay.

McShay begins discussing the Commanders at the 44:24 mark in the newest episode of his podcast.

Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles is the one player Washington values above everyone else. If he's gone, wideout could be the team's pivot, in which case Tate would be the choice.

Tyson is the top-ranked receiver on Bleacher Report's final big board, but he sits only one spot ahead of Tate.

In general, the 2026 draft class has a lot of value at the position. One pass-catcher doesn't really stand out from the rest, though.

"The middle and the back end of this group is good, not so much off the top," one receivers coach told The Athletic's Bruce Feldman.

Tate, for example, may not be the best WR prospect on his own team. That title would belong to Jeremiah Smith, who isn't draft-eligible until 2027.

"He's more fluid in person than he looks on tape," the receivers coach said. "When I went to the pro day, I was really impressed and pleasantly surprised. He can make every catch. He's tougher than you think. He can put on some more weight in his frame and add to his strength."

Carnell Tate highlights

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Tyson, meanwhile, played a total of 33 games in four years at Arizona State and Colorado.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported some teams view him as "the most talented wide receiver" available, while others "expressed concerns about both his durability and maturity."

Even though Terry McLaurin is signed through 2028, targeting a receiver makes sense for Washington. There isn't a lot of depth behind McLaurin in the passing game, and age is starting to become a bigger consideration with the 30-year-old two-time Pro Bowler.

Tate would be a straightforward solution for the Commanders if he's still there. Otherwise, they can probably wait and still find good value at receiver in the third round.