Adam Peters made a significant impact on the Washington Commanders during his first year as general manager. He made some bold choices, and the results were immediate. This sleeping giant went from a perennial struggler to the NFC Championship game, propelling them back onto the national stage in the blink of an eye.
Unfortunately, things have not gone as well this time around.
The Commanders ran it back with the large majority of those who accomplished so much during the previous campaign. They made aggressive moves in the trade market and in free agency, but things have spiraled out of control. Although the injury problems haven't helped, an aging roster doesn't look fit for purpose, and massive changes are likely coming when the 2026 offseason arrives.
There is one costly signing who has failed to meet expectations. Even though Peters isn't in a position to do anything about it now, that won't be the case when Washington's regular-season engagements conclude.
Commanders haven't seen enough from Jonathan Jones to warrant an extension
With the Commanders seemingly ready to win now, Peters signed accomplished veterans who've been deep into the postseason. In some cases, they've gone right to the mountain top and won it all. Cornerback Jonathan Jones did that twice during his prolific spell with the New England Patriots, so hopes were high that he could bring this winning mindset to Washington and help them get over the hump.
Jones struggled to generate any early momentum over the opening two games. The defensive back went to injured reserve after that, not returning until Week 7. He became part of the rotation almost immediately, and there is a good chance he'll be a focal point down the stretch with Marshon Lattimore and Trey Amos out for the year. Still, the consistency must improve exponentially to improve his chances of an extended stay beyond 2025.
In truth, that decision might have already been made.
Peters has to get younger across the board. The Commanders have the most pending free agents anywhere in the league. Jones is one, and unless there is a turnaround of epic proportions in the next six games, he'll likely get the chance to take his chances elsewhere next spring.
The Commanders were correct to push all their chips into the middle after Washington reached the final four. It blew up in Peters' face, but it was the best move at the time. What the front-office leader must now do is consolidate and ensure the Commanders are on a sounder footing for a more sustainable future.
If that means disposing of players like Jones when the time comes, so be it.