The Washington Commanders are squarely in draft mode as the Senior Bowl kicks off this week in Mobile, Alabama. The annual college all-star game, considered the first major step in the NFL Draft process, will see the Commanders’ General Manager Adam Peters and his scouting department evaluating top prospects. The Commanders, holding the No. 7 overall pick in April’s draft, are assessing potential franchise cornerstones after a disappointing 5-12 season.
A Pivotal Offseason for Washington
The Commanders are looking to rebound after a significant drop-off from their NFC Championship Game appearance last year.
- The Senior Bowl takes place at Hancock Whitney Stadium on the University of South Alabama campus.
- The game is unique in that NFL coaching staffs lead the teams.
- The Senior Bowl has a rich history, dating back to 1950, and has showcased over 55 future Pro Football Hall of Famers.
- Washington finished the 2025 season with a 5-12 record.
The Senior Bowl, which began on January 7, 1950, at the Gator Bowl Stadium in Florida, moved to Mobile, Alabama, the following year and has remained there ever since. In 2021, the game found a new home at Hancock Whitney Stadium, the playing field for the South Alabama Jaguars. Throughout its history, the event has been a breeding ground for NFL talent, with luminaries like Dan Marino, LaDainian Tomlinson, Dak Prescott, and Justin Herbert all having showcased their skills in the game.
This year’s Senior Bowl is particularly crucial for Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, who is navigating his first full offseason with the team after replacing both his offensive and defensive coordinators. The Commanders could also consider trading down from the No. 7 pick to accumulate additional draft capital, potentially offsetting assets lost in previous trades.
Did you know? The Senior Bowl is the longest-running collegiate all-star football game in the United States.
The game’s format, with teams coached by NFL staff, provides a unique opportunity for prospects to learn and impress potential employers. The Senior Bowl isn’t just about individual performance; it’s about demonstrating the ability to quickly adapt to professional coaching and schemes.
The 2026 Senior Bowl is scheduled for January 31st, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. ET at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama.
