The Washington Commanders are gearing up for their three-day rookie minicamp, kicking off this Friday, May 8. While all eyes are on the team's six-player 2026 NFL Draft class, the real intrigue often lies with the undrafted free agents—players fighting for a shot at the big leagues. Alongside the draft picks, the Commanders will host a mix of undrafted signees, tryout hopefuls, and even some of their younger existing players in Ashburn.
Though the team hasn't officially announced its undrafted free-agent class yet, reports have surfaced on several players who've agreed to terms. Among them, one name stands out as a potential diamond in the rough: wide receiver Hilton. Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic recently spotlighted Hilton as the one UDFA to watch across all 32 teams, and for good reason.
Hilton (6-foot, 188 pounds) entered college as a five-star recruit, sharing a recruiting class with stars like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. But injuries—including meniscus issues in both knees, an ankle problem, and a shoulder injury—derailed his college career. Despite that, his raw talent is undeniable. At the NFL combine, Hilton clocked a blistering 4.41-second 40-yard dash with a 1.57-second split, showcasing the kind of speed that turns heads. He runs with exceptional balance and body control, though he remains a very raw prospect.
Interestingly, Hilton made history earlier this year by becoming the first player to participate in four different pre-draft all-star games, including the prestigious Senior Bowl. His combine workout only added to the buzz.
The Commanders' receiving corps is crowded but not without opportunity. Returning players include Terry McLaurin, Jaylin Lane, Luke McCaffrey, and Treylon Burks, along with Jacoby Jones and Ja'Corey Brooks. The team also added Dyami Brown, Van Jefferson, and Antonio Williams in the offseason. It's a competitive battle, but Hilton's speed and potential could carve out a role if he stays healthy and impresses during minicamp.
As for other UDFAs to keep an eye on, four-time All-Big Ten kicker Stevens was listed in the "others to watch" category. For a team looking to solidify its special teams, he could be a dark horse candidate.
With rookie minicamp just days away, Hilton embodies the classic underdog story—a player with immense talent, a rocky past, and everything to prove. Whether he makes the 53-man roster remains to be seen, but he's certainly one to watch as the Commanders begin building for the future.