The Washington Commanders failed to meet lofty expectations in 2025. Their sensational surge in the first season under head coach Dan Quinn raised the bar higher than anticipated, and general manager Adam Peters' roster construction came under fierce scrutiny as a result.
Peters emphasized winning now, signing veterans to short-term deals and striking two bold trades that signified Washington's intent to improve on its NFC Championship Game appearance. It backfired horribly, leaving the front-office leader facing the prospect of consolidation and reflection this time around.
Fans expect significant changes to the playing personnel. The Commanders only have two picks in the first four rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, but they could potentially have upwards of $100 million spend in free agency. Peters will need every cent, especially considering the lack of legitimate quality or depth across the roster.
One cannot accuse Peters of attaching sentiment to his decisions. He is calculated, ruthless, and everything in between. Aside from a few cornerstone pieces, everyone should be on edge. Some decisions will be difficult, but others already seem foregone.
With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players that Peters has no business bringing back for the 2026 campaign.
Commanders players that Adam Peters has no business letting return in 2026
Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders had the NFL's oldest roster heading into the 2025 season. This was a necessary evil after so many years of poor drafting from previous head coach Ron Rivera, but almost every area of the depth chart lacked vibrancy and explosiveness.
Adam Peters must get younger and more dynamic this offseason. This bears greater significance for defense, especially with new coordinator Daronte Jones expected to bring a more aggressive, creative approach. And it seems like veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner may not be part of the team's plans moving forward.
Wagner was a revelation in Year 1 with the club. He spearheaded the culture shift, providing the leadership and purpose that got everyone on board. The future Pro Football Hall of Famer got another one-year deal, which was richly deserved at the time.
Now, the Commanders should move on. Wagner's age is finally catching up to him. While he's still a force in between the tackles, he was constantly exposed in space. Teams game-planned around his lack of speed and diminishing coverage skills with great success, and Washington's defense capitulated accordingly.
The newly crowned NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year hasn't given an indication about retirement. Either way, the Commanders need to go in a different direction.