Major Hit No. 1
Commanders' trade for Laremy Tunsil
Adam Peters was more aggressive during his second offseason. The Washington Commanders' memorable trip to the NFC Championship game in Year 1 of this ambitious project dictated a shift. It didn't pay off, but at least the general manager's biggest outlay reaped some hefty rewards.
The Commanders paid a premium to acquire five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil via trade from the Houston Texans. This represents a major statement of intent, and even though the AFC South club was happy to move on, it didn't take long to realize this would be a tremendous piece of business.
Tunsil was a revelation on the blindside. His pass protection was exceptional, and his run blocking was outstanding. He also became a strong mentor behind the scenes, leading by example through the good times and the bad.
While the penalty numbers were too high, Tunsil proved his worth as an elite performer capable of manning the spot for as long as he wants it. And if the Commanders want to keep him around, they have to pay up this offseason.
Costly Error No. 2
Commanders spent big on Javon Kinlaw
After releasing Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jonathan Allen when no willing trade suitor came forward, a replacement was needed. These were big shoes to fill, and Adam Peters caused a massive stir with his chosen route.
Much to the surprise of almost everyone, the Commanders signed Javon Kinlaw in free agency. If that wasn't enough, Peters also handed him a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed to secure his services.
This move was met with raised eyebrows, criticism, and ridicule. Nobody thought Kinlaw was worth this sort of financial commitment. Based on his subpar efforts throughout the 2025 campaign, they were right.
Kinlaw always talked big before games. Unfortunately, this was rarely backed up with production when it mattered most. It was an underwhelming campaign in almost every way. And the fact that the South Carolina product failed to record a single sack from 405 pass-rush snaps was a damning indictment of his inconsistencies.
Major Hit No. 2
Commanders drafted Josh Conerly Jr.
The Commanders had already traded for Laremy Tunsil. However, that did not prevent Adam Peters from spending his first-round pick on another offensive tackle when Josh Conerly Jr. dropped into his lap.
Peters was unsure about whether Conerly would make it down to No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Commanders didn't hesitate when he was available, and he immediately won the starting right tackle job after a successful transition over the summer.
Conerly went through some severe growing pains early. He faced a gauntlet of the league's most prolific pass-rushers in the opening weeks, which provided the rude awakening he needed. Things progressed encouragingly as the campaign went on, with the Oregon product providing assured pass protection and an enhanced technique that exponentially improved his overall contribution.
He will also benefit greatly from these rookie exploits. And another offseason to hone his play strength could see Conerly break out fully in 2026.