Clelin Ferrell - Commanders DE
There is one glaring issue that could hold the Washington Commanders back when push comes to shove in 2025. This centers on their lack of legitimate edge-rushing options, which is causing significant concern among the fan base.
Adam Peters seems comfortable with the options available. The Commanders retained some pieces from last season. They signed Deatrich Wise Jr. and Jacob Martin in free agency. However, they weren't able to retain Dante Fowler Jr., who departed for the Dallas Cowboys after just one season.
This represents a gamble of epic proportions. Peters could add more as the summer goes on, but this defensive end/edge rushing unit doesn't have anybody capable of striking fear into opposing offensive lines.
One of the more surprising moves was the decision to re-sign Clelin Ferrell. The Commanders didn't get much from the former Clemson star last season, and gradually reduced his involvement when the stakes got higher down the stretch. Peters isn't ready to throw in the towel on his chances yet, but a huge effort is needed to turn the tide.
The margin for error is non-existent where Ferrell is concerned. Anything less than raised performance levels and better run defense could see him on the fringes or off the roster entirely.
Percy Butler - Commanders S
Most Commanders fans were expecting the Commanders to retain dynamic safety Jeremy Chinn this offseason. The former second-round pick galvanized his career in Washington after being cast aside by the Carolina Panthers. His explosiveness, instincts, and physicality left a positive impression more than worthy of another financial commitment.
Adam Peters had other ideas. The Commanders decided that Chinn wasn't worth what the Las Vegas Raiders were willing to pay. They signed Will Harris to fill the void, but this looks like a downgrade unless he thrives in a more profitable environment.
The Commanders also stood firm with their options behind the projected starting safety duo of Harris and Quan Martin. It's a big gamble, but one that indicates they haven't lost faith in Percy Butler just yet.
Butler saw his snaps plummet to 37 percent last season. There wasn't much to raise optimism, with his indifferent run support and coverage liability becoming an ongoing frustration once again.
The former fourth-round pick was more effective on special teams, which could help the Commanders next season. But unless Butler can improve drastically, he could be unseated by someone like Tyler Owens when it's all said and done.
Considering this is also a contract year for Butler, it's not hard to see why the defensive back has a mountain to climb.