Editor’s note: We’ll count down the top 10 Commanders players on the 2026 roster regardless of position sporadically over the next few weeks. Before we get to it, here’s how we arrived at the ranking: Our Scott Bair, Scott Jennings and Mark Tyler compiled a top 13 – no ranking was identical — with points **** igned to each ranking slot from all three lists. We used these point values to form a consensus top 10 ranking. We’ll write a story on others receiving votes at the end, and Mark will probably have a Tyler’s Take with his thoughts. You’ll surely object to some of these rankings, though debate is kind of the point with lists like this. Well, let’s get to it with No. 8:
The Commanders need stability at every defensive level after a disastrous showing in 2025 where they couldn’t seem to stop anyone when it mattered most.
That’s why they relied so heavily on free agency to fortify that unit, adding veteran talent that didn’t need to be developed much. General manager Adam Peters went big on the defensive line, especially off the edge. He added speed and physicality at the linebacker spot.
Peters also found the defensive backfield’s anchor point in safety Nick Cross. He comes on a two-year deal and with some street cred established in Indianapolis, as a versatile, every-down safety who can play all over the place.
That proven talent instantly upgrades Washington’s roster, with Cross ranking No. 8 on our top 10 list of Commanders players regardless of position.