Head coach Dan Quinn is firmly focused on ensuring the Washington Commanders are prepared for the upcoming season. But for general manager Adam Peters, he is always thinking two steps ahead.
Peters is always looking at the bigger picture. He always puts the team first, and always has the future in mind. Next year and the years after are the furthest things from fans' thoughts right now, but that will not be the case in Washington's front office.
There are high stakes for almost everyone. How the players perform will have a big say in whether Quinn's job status is under pressure. How they perform will also go a long way to determining if some have long-term futures with the Commanders.
Washington needs stability. The best way to achieve this is to maintain their core, develop their draft picks, and build something sustainable. There will be changes every year, but keeping them to a minimum is what separates the contending teams from the also-rans.
Peters has a lot to think about. And for these seven Commanders players, they have a chance to earn a more lucrative financial commitment in Washington or elsewhere with strong performances in 2026.
Washington Commanders players who can make themselves impossible to underpay in 2026
Treylon Burks - Commanders WR
After his time with the Tennessee Titans didn't go well before fizzling out completely, wide receiver Treylon Burks was looking for a fresh start. He chose the Commanders, and after flashing promise during the second half of 2025, he has a chance to finally find a home.
Burks got a new one-year deal in Washington. The money was nice and a clear vote of confidence in the player. But a conversation with new offensive coordinator David Blough about the player's role within his system was far more important.
There are concerns around the wideouts behind Terry McLaurin. The Commanders need someone to step up, or Adam Peters will look for outside help. Several candidates will fancy their chances, but Burks could very well be in the driver's seat.
He's always had talent; that's never been in question. The Titans tasked him with too much, too soon, and it stunted his development. Injuries also didn't help, but from an athletic standpoint, Burks has everything.
If Blough can unlock his true potential, and Burks' comfort level grows in a stable environment with one of the most accurate passers around in Jayden Daniels, he could potentially get a multi-year commitment with a much bigger annual average salary attached.
It could go the other way, but don't count Burks out just yet.
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