Adam Peters did what was required throughout a busy free agency period. The Washington Commanders still have work ahead, but the general manager deserves credit for being aggressive and providing the roster with an injection of youthful energy after such a disappointing campaign.
No fewer than 15 new signings have come on board so far. More will be on the way via the draft, undrafted free agency, and the remaining veteran pool. The Commanders have been among the most active teams, and with good reason. If Peters can continue this positive trend in the coming weeks, and the new coordinators bring more innovative concepts, Washington will be a team to watch next season.
The NFC East will be more competitive next season, but the Commanders have a good shot to get into the title picture if everyone meets their end of the bargain and they get better luck on the injury front. And after such an influx of acquisitions, competition for places can only be a good thing.
That's not the case with everyone. With this in mind, here are eight Commanders players on the chopping block after Peters' ruthless roster overhaul.
Commanders players on the chopping block after Adam Peters’ ruthless overhaul
Julain Good-Jones - Commanders OL
Dan Quinn recently revealed that the current plan is for Nick Allegretti and Julian Good-Jones to compete for the starting center gig in 2026. But after releasing such a dependable performer in Tyler Biadasz, fans are rightfully pessimistic.
The Commanders clearly believe they can get similar production for cheaper with Allegretti. Good-Jones might get a chance to compete, but that will change quickly if another capable center is acquired at some stage during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Good-Jones is 29 and hasn't seen an NFL field since 2023, which is the only regular-season game of his professional career so far. Making the team seems highly unlikely. It becomes almost impossible if another center joins the organization.
Quan Martin - Commanders S
The long-awaited breakout of Quan Martin fell completely flat last season. Washington's coaching staff placed significant faith in the safety to deliver, but he failed to meet expectations.
Martin's positional sense was terrible. His tackling was even worse. The Commanders gradually phased him out down the stretch, and the signing of Nick Cross only raises the stakes. If Adam Peters drafts Caleb Downs or another safety during the draft, that will tell fans all they need to know about the Illinois product's outlook.
Daronte Jones has a strong reputation for developing defensive backs. Martin needs to respond positively to adversity, or the Commanders will find someone who can.
And that ship may have already sailed.