8 Commanders spearheading remarkable franchise culture shift in 2024

Bobby Wagner & Frankie Luvu - Commanders LBs

The Washington Commanders were devoid of inspiration on defense last season. Even prominent leaders such as Jonathan Allen were visibly frustrated and dejected as another campaign under head coach Ron Rivera spiraled into oblivion. Addressing this was high on the team's list of priorities in Year 1 of their substantial rebuild.

Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu were early targets who bought into the proposals being offered by those in power. They've brought a unique blend of passion and winning standards to the organization. They're setting the example for others to follow. Their contributions so far have been nothing short of inspirational.

Things took time to mesh on defense after so many changes. Joe Whitt Jr.'s unit has excelled over the last seven quarters of competitive action after the defensive coordinator simplified the schematic strategy. Wagner and Luvu were at the forefront as expected, keeping spirits high and providing a sense of assurance at the second level that was sorely missing previously.

Wagner seems to have a lot of good football left and is on course for another new deal if he wants it. Luvu looks like a franchise cornerstone piece for years to come. That's a sensational early return on Washington's investment.

Adam Peters - Commanders GM

There was only one man for the vacant Commanders' general manager position. Other candidates were interviewed, but it was merely a formality. Josh Harris' ownership group and special advisor Bob Myers honed in on Adam Peters immediately. After waiting for the right opportunity, the respected front-office figure saw this as a project worth being part of.

Peters had an ambitious plan in place and wasted no time turning the Commanders around. There is a collective purpose and improved infrastructure in the front office. He turned over almost two-thirds of the playing personnel while maintaining financial flexibility in the coming years. There's an emphasis on building through the draft and rewarding those who prove their worth. Sam Cosmi's lucrative contract extension is a prime example.

The Commanders also hit on their quarterback at No. 2 overall if Jayden Daniels' performances through five weeks are any indication. Getting the chance to build around a rookie contract is the biggest positive imaginable. After so much roster mismanagement and failed moves during Ron Rivera's tenure, Washington finally has the right guy in place.

This is just the start for Peters. His plans might pivot slightly thanks to the Commanders' sensational start, but fans can relax safe in the knowledge he'll do the right thing.