Sam Cosmi's contigency plan
It wasn't all good news for the Washington Commanders during a memorable run to the NFC Championship game. The biggest disappointment by a considerable margin was Sam Cosmi's devastating injury.
Another outstanding campaign from Cosmi came to an abrupt halt in the divisional round. The exceptional right guard went down trying to push the pile against the Detroit Lions. Concerns were immediate, with tests showing the former second-round selection out of Texas tore his ACL.
This represented the worst possible outcome for the Commanders. Cosmi is an elite-level performer and an emerging leader within the locker room. Looking at the typical timeline for ACL recoveries, the interior lineman is set to miss most if not all of the 2025 campaign.
Adam Peters' contingency plan for Cosmi's absence goes right to the top of his priority list. Jayden Daniels masked a lot of problems on the offensive line in 2024. Reinforcements were guaranteed even before this injury development. They are even more essential now.
Peters must invest heavily in the protection. Finding a veteran right guard capable of filling the void instantly would be beneficial. Switching Brandon Coleman to the interior and drafting a franchise left tackle couldn't be completely dismissed either.
The Commanders have options. Cosmi's loss will be sorely felt, but Peters must make the best out of a bad situation.
Commanders' investment balance
Fans are heading into the offseason with genuine excitement for the future. It was cautious optimism this time last year, but an incredible first season under the new regime has Washington's long-suffering support dreaming of bigger and better things.
Adam Peters has a long-term strategy in place. The general manager needs to be more aggressive this offseason with the team's Super Bowl window open. Washington also needs to maximize Jayden Daniels' rookie contract over the next two years before the No. 2 pick in 2024 becomes extension-eligible.
Finding the right balance is key. The Commanders have $79.51 million in available salary-cap space with 46 players under contract. They have 29 free agents, so huge alterations to the playing personnel are expected once again. Peters has a lot of hard work ahead, but he's got the resources to achieve his objectives.
Peters must distribute his investment evenly. The Commanders' run to the NFC Championship game doesn't mask the long-term issues on this roster. Drafting well for the second straight year would help. There is also enough cash to land a prominent free agent or two if those in power believe it can help get them over the hump.
Everyone associated with the Commanders is waiting with bated breath to see what comes next. And they are confident Peters is the right man for the job.