Adam Peters is currently running the rule over potential draft prospects of interest at the NFL Scouting Combine. Before the all-important selection process arrives, the Washington Commanders have some difficult decisions to make regarding current playing personnel.
The Commanders have 29 free agents to navigate in the coming weeks. Some will receive contract extensions thanks to their sterling efforts this season. Others will be moved on swiftly after failing to meet expectations. There's also the small matter of recruitment with Peters boasting a wealth of assets to utilize throughout the spring.
Washington is projected to have $82.21 million in available salary-cap space. They have seven draft selections. Players will actively seek the Commanders out for the first time in decades. Everything is in place to revamp the roster effectively in pursuit of keeping up with the Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Not everyone will come along for the journey. Players out of contract will be free to take their chances elsewhere. Despite the Commanders' financial strength, Peters could deem certain individuals surplus to requirements ahead of time.
It'll be a frantic, fascinating offseason for all involved. With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who need to be gone before the 2025 season begins.
Commanders players who need to be gone before the 2025 season begins
Michael Deiter - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders offensive line needs another makeover this offseason. Their performance levels were decent enough when fully healthy, but Adam Peters shouldn't settle. He needs to rethink the offensive tackle positions and enhance depth urgently to ensure Jayden Daniels has the protection needed to thrive.
Those plans should not include Michael Deiter. The versatile lineman joined the Commanders on a one-year deal last spring. Hopes were high that he could provide adequate production when called upon given his experience. That didn't come to fruition.
Production notably dipped whenever Deiter was tasked with starting responsibilities. Tyler Biadasz is the starting center and that should remain the case next season. However, the Commanders need a better backup plan if the former Wisconsin star is forced to miss time at any stage.
Deiter's pass-blocking was abysmal and his ability to create any push on running plays wasn't much better. Thankfully for the Commanders, this was a short-term commitment. Peters can move on with little fanfare attached when the time to decide the veteran's future arrives.
The Commanders have enough funds to find a capable replacement this offseason. Going down the draft route couldn't be completely dismissed either.