Top NFL draft prospect all smiles when asked about Commanders

The Washington Commanders need serious help at edge rusher. Whether it's through free agency or the 2026 NFL Draft, or both, expect the Commanders to be heavily involved in the pass-rush market.

On Wednesday, draft prospects took the podium at the 2026 NFL combine in Indianapolis, and we learned who some of the players Washington met with this week. The Commanders, who hold the No. 7 overall pick, met with Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, Miami edge Rueben Bain Jr., Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Texas Tech edge David Bailey, among others. What's notable about these four is that all are contenders to be picked seventh overall by Washington.

Each of these players, along with Ohio State safety Caleb Downs are among the players often mentioned for the Commanders in mock drafts. Bailey, the All-American with 12.5 sacks last season for the Red Raiders, is most mentioned as heading to Washington.

When asked about going to the Commanders by Donna Hopkins on Wednesday, Bailey was all smiles.

"Yeah, I've talked to them and I'm willing to do anything for them," Bailey said with a smile. "Pass rusher, special teams, anything, I'm just going to be grateful for the opportunities."

Pro Football Plus: Look at that big smile on Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey when I asked him about the Commanders. Sounds like he would like to play in Washington because he said he would play anywhere for them. pic.twitter.com/fS9JW5NZyf

— Donna Hopkins (@DonnaHopkins_) February 25, 2026

The Commanders have a new defensive coordinator, Daronte Jones. Jones is expected to run a similar scheme as Brian Flores does with the Vikings, where your edge rushers are versatile defenders. That fits Bailey.

Most Washington fans would be elated to land Bailey — if he makes it that far.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 2026 NFL combine: David Bailey all smiles when asked about Commanders