The Washington Commanders attacked multiple positions in free agency. From edge rusher to tight end, the franchise attacked the process with vigor. Now, with the draft rapidly approaching, the time to grab a receiver draws near. The Athletic’s Nicki Jhabvala believes a couple of wideouts could fit the bill on Day Two of the 2026 NFL Draft. However, one in particular, Indiana wideout Elijah Sarratt.
“Sarratt played only two seasons at Indiana but had the third-most touchdown catches (23) in program history. ”
Sarratt started his career at St. Francis , posting his only 1,000-yard season as a sophomore while at James Madison. He flourished with both Kurtis Rourke and Fernando Mendoza as quarterbacks, two vastly different passers in terms of traits and execution.
GettyCommanders potential target, wide receiver Elijah Surratt.
Jayden Daniels Needs Help on the Other Side
Like a horse wearing blinders, Daniels will lock on to Terry McLaurin and ignore targets that may break open. As a result, defenses know this. Sarratt plays a physical style that wins on third downs and in the red zone. The facts bear that out.
For example, according to Pro Football Focus, with ten yards, Suratt accounted for 31 touchdowns and seven touchdowns. His release brings contact and force to free himself from the jam. As a No. 2 receiver, Surratt could improve on the 32 first downs that Samuel gained. Additionally, Samuel’s 3.6 yards before catch tell the tale of screen and quick slants that opponents will eventually sit on and potentially pick off.
GettyPotential Commanders wide receiver draftee, Elijah Surratt
Great Hands Will Make Him A Team Favorite
While critics believed that the loss of Commanders’ tight end Zach Ertz and receiver Deebo Samuel could hurt, one thing that will not is their drops. The duo combined for 11 dropped passes last season. Meanwhile, Surratt crafted a college career resume that included a 2.7 drop percentage. By the same token, that could translate into keeping drives moving, especially if McLaurin sees bracketed coverage over the top.
Earlier in the offseason, offensive coordinator David Blough articulated what he wanted for McLaurin. If the veteran does see double-digit targets each game, defenses will roll extra help over there, leaving Surratt singled against the No. 2 cornerback. In college, someone bestowed the nickname of “Waffle House” because he was always open.
GettyIndiana wideout Elijah Surratt catches a touchdown against Oregon in the CFP.
Hidden Value Pays Immediate Dividends
“At 6-3, 210 pounds, Sarratt knows how to use his size to his advantage.”
Surratt’s potential draft pick opens a door with few statistics, but could give the Commanders an added bonus. Surratt, on the outside, loves and embraces the dirty job of run blocking. Surratt meets the defender , instead of waiting for the engagement to find him. On top of that, he locks on and drives the opponent away from the ball, creating a longer running alley. Those extra yards prolong drives and will go largely ignored.
Many NFL cornerbacks are not ones to shed blocks and peel away to make a play. The film usually shows them occupying a hole where they hope the back will slow down, allowing others to make the stop.
In reality, Surratt could be available on Day 2, early in the second round. The Commanders not only need to improve from last year but also help their quarterback, potentially earning him an extension.
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