The Washington Commanders remain without a clear answer at the receiver spot opposite Terry McLaurin, and the team is weighing outside additions or internal development, the report says. Options include waiting on Brandon Aiyuk, pursuing free agent Stefon Diggs, or hoping third-round rookie Antonio Williams emerges early.
Per the report, multiple league sources and former coaches and executives acknowledge Washington could use another reliable pass catcher alongside McLaurin, who has been the club’s top target since entering the NFL as a third-round pick in 2019. The team’s other receivers are described in the report as too unproven to predict a strong No. 2 emerging from within.
The report notes the Commanders signed tight end Chig Okonkwo in free agency and that new offensive coordinator David Blough is likely to run more two- and three–tight end sets, which would reduce how often a third wideout is needed. General manager Adam Peters told reporters during the draft the team is monitoring available players or others who might come free, a stance that applies to both Aiyuk and Diggs, per the report.
The report outlines Aiyuk’s high-end production from 2022-23 — a combined 153 catches for 2,357 yards and 15 touchdowns — and his second-team All-Pro nod after the 2023 season. The piece also lays out availability and health concerns: Aiyuk has not played since suffering ACL and MCL tears on Oct. 20, 2024, he is on the reserve/did not report list, and San Francisco voided $27 million in guaranteed money for 2026 after missed rehab sessions. The 49ers’ general manager John Lynch has said Aiyuk will never play for San Francisco again, though the team is holding him while seeking trade offers, the report says.
The report adds context on Washington’s familiarity with Aiyuk: Peters worked in San Francisco from 2020-2023 and quarterback Jayden Daniels played with Aiyuk one year at Arizona State and remains close with him. Former Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon, now with CBS Sports, said he wouldn’t have an issue signing Aiyuk and noted the advantage of Peters’ knowledge of the player, calling Aiyuk well-liked and a “good teammate.”
Stefon Diggs is presented in the report as a veteran with a proven track record who has historically produced immediately after switching teams. The spring brings higher-profile choices than in recent years, but the report says it remains to be seen which direction Washington ultimately takes.
