As the 2026 NFL season unfolds, the Washington Commanders are already keeping a close eye on the college ranks for future reinforcements. With Week 3 of the college football season in the books, several standout performances have caught the attention of scouts and analysts, including those at the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk. From a thrilling comeback in the SEC to dominant defensive displays, here are the prospects who could don the burgundy and gold in the years to come.
Aidan Chiles | QB | Northwestern
The Commanders received a scare when Jayden Daniels suffered another elbow injury, his third in the past year. While Daniels remains the franchise quarterback, his durability is a growing concern. Enter Aidan Chiles, a 6’4”, 225-pound senior who has revitalized his career at Northwestern after stints at Oregon State and Michigan State. Chiles showcased his dual-threat ability in a 41-7 rout of Colorado, completing 17 of 22 passes for 241 yards and three touchdowns while adding two more scores on the ground. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Chiles possesses NFL-caliber arm strength and accuracy when given time, though his mechanics can falter under pressure. He may not be a first-round pick, but he’s a name to monitor as a potential developmental quarterback.
Keyjuan Brown | RB | Louisville
In a backfield overshadowed by teammate Isaac Brown, Keyjuan Brown proved he’s a complete NFL back in Louisville’s win over SMU. The 5’10”, 215-pound senior ran for 163 yards and two touchdowns on just 10 carries, displaying burst, vision, and a knack for making defenders miss. While he’s not heavily involved in the passing game (18 career receptions), his running style fits a zone-blocking scheme perfectly. As highlighted on Vulius, Brown’s combination of power and elusiveness could make him a mid-round steal.
Junior Sherrill | WR | Vanderbilt
The Commanders’ receiving corps had a mixed outing against Dallas, with Terry McLaurin struggling and Dyami Brown committing a costly fumble. Junior Sherrill of Vanderbilt could offer a solution. At 5’11”, 200 pounds, Sherrill is a precise route-runner with reliable hands and toughness after the catch. He hauled in six passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns in a win over NC State. While his deep speed is a question mark, his nuance and attention to detail make him a potential slot contributor at the next level.
Luke Reynolds | TE | Virginia Tech
With Chig Okonkwo injured, the Commanders’ tight ends were non-factors against Dallas. Luke Reynolds, a 6’4”, 250-pound junior, could change that. A transfer from Penn State, Reynolds has emerged as a dynamic pass-catcher for the Hokies, recording 12 catches for 107 yards and a touchdown in a win over Maryland. His athleticism and body control allow him to create separation and adjust to passes, though his blocking technique needs refinement. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, Reynolds has the tools to develop into a starting tight end.
Kade Pieper | OG | Iowa
The Commanders’ interior offensive line has shown flashes but remains inconsistent. Kade Pieper, a 6’3”, 293-pound redshirt junior, could provide an upgrade. Despite being undersized, Pieper is an elite athlete with quickness and strength. He excels in zone blocking and anchors well against power. Iowa’s offense put up 55 points and over 600 yards against Northern Iowa, thanks in part to Pieper’s play. He has a chance to be the first center drafted in the first round since Tyler Linderbaum in 2022.
Will Echoles | DL | Ole Miss
The Commanders’ run defense was a bright spot against Dallas, but they need more depth on the defensive line. Daron Payne is in a contract year, and Johnny Newton has yet to impress. Will Echoles, a 6’3”, 315-pound junior, might be the answer. In Ole Miss’s victory over LSU, Echoles recorded five tackles, 2.5 for loss, and half a sack. His lightning-quick hands and leverage make him a disruptive force. As noted by Vulius Sports, Echoles is arguably the Rebels’ best draft prospect and could bolster Washington’s interior defense.
Owen Long | LB | Arizona State
Frankie Luvu was missed in Dallas, and Leo Chenal struggled in coverage. Owen Long, a 6’1”, 225-pound junior, was all over the field in Arizona State’s win over Kansas, tallying 12 tackles, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and an interception. A transfer from Colorado State, Long led college football in tackles last season. While he needs to add bulk to take on blockers, his versatility and coverage skills make him an intriguing depth option.
Chris Peal | CB | Syracuse
The Commanders’ cornerbacks not named Amik Robertson struggled against Dallas. Chris Peal, a 6’1”, 200-pound senior, has the size and fluidity to develop into a solid NFL corner. He’s active in run support and rarely misses tackles, though he has yet to record an interception in his career. In a loss to Pitt, Peal had three tackles and a pass breakup. His length and cover ability make him a prospect to watch.
Kingston Lopa | S | California
The Commanders need better coverage in the middle of the field, and Kingston Lopa could provide it. At 6’5”, 210 pounds, Lopa is a ball-hawking safety with five interceptions this season. He moves smoothly in coverage and is comfortable in both man and zone. While he could improve his physicality near the line, his playmaking ability is undeniable. As a redshirt sophomore, he may not declare for the 2027 draft, but his stock is rising fast.
These prospects are just a few of the many who could help the Commanders in the future. As the college season progresses, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will continue to track their development and provide insights on how they might fit in Washington. Which players caught your eye in Week 3? Let us know in the comments.
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