Adam Peters knew what he needed to do this offseason. The Washington Commanders accomplished so much during the 2024 season, but it was only the first step in their master plan to get this sleeping giant back among the NFL powerhouses.
The Commanders were well-placed to be aggressive this offseason. Peters knew their Super Bowl window was open and there was a need to maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract. He also emphasized the need to reward those who gave so much to the cause last season.
This wasn't perceived as the wealthiest crop of free agents. Peters held a similar opinion, making one big splash but focusing more on re-signings and proven veterans on one-year deals. His main acquisitions came in the trade market, with wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil further legitimizing the front-office leader's project.
Some were richly deserving of the extensions that came their way. Others raised a few eyebrows, but Peters is doing what he believes is best to ensure Washington's memorable 2024 campaign starts a profitable new era for the organization.
With that being said, here are five Commanders players who didn't necessarily deserve another season, but got one anyway for one reason or another.
Commanders players who don't deserve another season (but got one anyway)
Michael Deiter - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders made one landmark addition to their offensive line. It was a move that quickly sent shockwaves through the entire league.
Laremy Tunsil is widely regarded as one of the league's most prolific left tackles and someone who'll completely shift the mindset. Adam Peters gave up decent draft capital to get him on board, but there's no doubt whatsoever he represents a significant upgrade on anything the team's had on the blindside since Trent Williams was traded to the San Francisco 49ers.
There was one move above all else that caused a few raised eyebrows among the fanbase. Michael Deiter surprisingly got another one-year deal despite some underwhelming performances when called upon in 2024. He's only costing $1.19 million against the salary cap, so there's no guarantee the versatile piece will be on the 53-man roster when Week 1 rolls around.
Deiter was seen as a high-caliber backup capable of playing anywhere along the interior after joining last spring. He was a substantial downgrade whenever starting center Tyler Biadasz got hurt. The fact that Washington went with Trent Scott — an offensive tackle by trade — when Sam Cosmi tore his ACL against the Detroit Lions spoke volumes.
The Commanders went with continuity over a fresh face with more upside. Deiter gets another shot to prove himself, but the margin for error is nonexistent.