Winner No. 4
Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR
Nothing much went right for Terry McLaurin last year. The stud wide receiver spent the entire summer holding out during a contract standoff that went much longer than expected. Adam Peters wanted a deal that worked for the team, but it had a ripple effect that was detrimental to the Washington Commanders.
McLaurin struggled early. He got hurt in Week 3 and wasn't right until the back end of 2025. It was deeply disappointing, but the signs have been incredibly positive this offseason.
The former Ohio State standout looks sharp and ready to make another huge impression on the team. McLaurin has been working hard throughout the offseason, setting the correct tone for others to follow. His presence has given everyone a massive lift, which shows just how much he was missed during last year's preparations.
It's a small detail. But the Commanders' chances of improvement could be as simple as getting their offensive talisman back into the mix for a full offseason program.
Loser No. 2
Ahkello Witherspoon - Commanders CB
The Commanders are relying on their defensive front seven to provide the foundation that makes things easier for the secondary. Even so, defensive coordinator Daronte Jones still needs his cornerbacks to cover and tackle effectively, so it's a big risk moving forward with the options available.
Trey Amos, Mike Sainristil, and Amik Robertson seem entrenched as the starting trio. They have promise, but the depth behind them seems sketchy at best right now.
Washington is counting on Ahkello Witherspoon to provide enough security to be the fourth option. The veteran is experienced and talented when firing on all cylinders. Staying healthy has been a big problem in recent years, and his up-and-down performances during the team's early offseason program are concerning.
Witherspoon should still make the roster. Options are threadbare for legitimate competition lower down the depth chart. But if he cannot raise his consistency over the summer, Adam Peters may bring in more help.
Winner No. 5
Adam Peters - Commanders GM
There was an incredible amount of pressure on general manager Adam Peters this offseason. The Commanders fell desperately short of meeting raised expectations in 2025. Fans were demanding drastic action, and the front-office supremo responded with an emphatic statement.
Washington was no longer going to rely on veterans past their peak. Peters implemented a youth movement of sorts, focusing primarily on signings coming off their rookie contracts. There were a few one-year deals, but most involved players who stand to get a much bigger payday if they impress enough during the upcoming campaign.
Peters didn't sign every primary target. Alex Pierce got a bumper new deal with the Indianapolis Colts, and Romeo Doubs signed for the New England Patriots, but the additions made should greatly help the Commanders, especially on defense. Couple this with finding real value during the draft, and the former San Francisco 49ers executive proved he is still the right man for the job.
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