Javon Kinlaw - Commanders DT
Adam Peters didn't make many big splashes in free agency. The Washington Commanders chose to allocate their lofty investments to the trade market, acquiring wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. and left tackle Laremy Tunsil to provide quarterback Jayden Daniels with the ammunition needed to excel further in Year 2 of his professional career.
Peters made one significant financial outlay from the veteran pool. To say this raised more than a few eyebrows around the league would be an understatement.
The Commanders signed imposing defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw to a three-year, $45 million deal that comes with $30 million guaranteed. This was immediately perceived as a massive overpay by fans and analysts alike, but Peters has earned enough trust to let things play out before judgment.
Kinlaw was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers when Peters held a prominent position within their front office. The former first-round pick hasn't quite met expectations as yet, and his lackluster campaign with the New York Jets last time out raises concern.
The Commanders placed a huge amount of faith in Kinlaw this offseason. Filling the void left by Jonathan Allen will be difficult, but it's something the South Carolina graduate must accomplish in pursuit of silencing his doubters.
Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
The Commanders' fan base was clamoring for Adam Peters to urgently address the running back position this offseason. Aside from selecting Jacory Croskey-Merritt at No. 245 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, the general manager held firm with the options available.
Croskey-Merritt comes with significant intrigue and could generate reps as the campaign progresses. However, there is confidence in the building that Brian Robinson Jr. can take another leap in a contract year.
The former third-round pick out of Alabama started the 2024 season extremely well. Robinson looked primed for the first 1,000-yard rushing campaign of his professional career before tailing off down the stretch and into the playoffs. Washington became far too reliant on quarterback Jayden Daniels on the ground. This cannot continue moving forward.
Peters will be keeping a close eye on developments. Robinson is a physical runner between the tackles, but he lacks the explosiveness needed to break big yardage. That could prove complicated when the Commanders come up against elite-level competition, although his ability to convert red-zone opportunities into touchdowns represents one big positive.
There is a significant amount at stake for Robinson this season. He's out of contract in 2026, so major improvements are needed in pursuit of an extended stay.