Adam Peters knew the hard work was just getting started despite the Washington Commanders achieving a considerable amount in head coach Dan Quinn's first season. That was a fairytale story that captivated a previously demoralized fanbase. Maintaining these high standards is a much trickier proposition.
The Commanders wanted to take advantage of their newfound momentum with quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels on a rookie contract. Peters traded for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil — two win-now moves from a franchise desperate to resume their spot as a perennial contender following decades of decay.
Peters' moves in free agency were more methodical. The Commanders followed the same trend of signing proven veterans to one-year deals. They also retained more of their free agents than expected, which was a telling sign of how those in power perceived this crop of veterans looking for alternative employment.
The Commanders got better. By how much remains to be seen, but Peters won't hesitate to make additional alterations if he feels like more is needed between now and when competitive action begins.
That won't be good news for everybody. With this in mind, here are five Commanders players plunging toward the roster bubble after an eventful recruitment period so far.
Commanders players plunging toward the roster bubble after 2025 free agency
Dominique Hampton - Commanders S/LB
It's hard to know what the Washington Commanders have in Dominique Hampton right now. The sixth-round pick practically redshirted his rookie season as is a tweener position-wise. That makes it difficult to place him anywhere on the depth chart until things become clearer over the summer.
Hampton had a lot of likable traits coming out of Washington. He gained plenty of college experience and performed well when the stakes were highest. Giving him a year to learn away from the spotlight should have been beneficial for his overall development. At the same time, it places him in a precarious situation.
The Commanders signed Will Harris to the safety room as a replacement for Jeremy Chinn. They have Quan Martin, Percy Butler, Tyler Owens, and Jeremy Reaves on the books, which could be added to further with a gifted college recruit via the draft.
Perhaps the linebacker spot is where Hampton can establish himself. The Commanders re-signed Bobby Wagner to continue his partnership with Frankie Luvu. Hopes remain high regarding Jordan Magee's outlook, but the cupboard is relatively bare aside from that.
Much will depend on whether the Commanders identify another second-level presence with one of their early draft picks. Hampton will be watching events unfold closely.