It's been hard to assess general manager Adam Peters over his first two seasons. The Washington Commanders soared to heights not seen for decades in 2024. This was followed by an epic slump during the previous campaign, which raised far more questions than it answered.
The good was good. The bad was bad. But one NFL analyst believes Peters is showing the signs of front-office leaders throughout league history who've been humbled in no uncertain terms.
Peters went all-in to build on Washington's sensational run to the NFC Championship game in Year 1 of this project. Big trades were made. Gambles were taken on aging veterans chasing a ring. There was an intent to win, and win now. It blew up spectacularly, forcing the former San Francisco 49ers executive into a seismic shift this offseason.
Adam Peters got a brutal gut check, and the Commanders could be better off for it
Patrick Daugherty of NBC Sports believes last season's capitulation was a rude awakening for Peters. The analyst believes it's forced him to switch back to a more traditional way of building a contender, which shows he got the message after a lost campaign that will be remembered for all the wrong reasons.
"There are no shortcuts. That was felt most acutely during April’s draft, where last year’s deficit spending left the Commandos with only two top-100 selections.
"No. 7 overall pick Sonny Styles, a meat-and-potatoes addition that at least showed [Adam] Peters was no longer under the impression he was one player away. That followed a free agency where he loaded up on regular defensive contributors. Back to basics, you could say. Humbling, but there’s nothing wrong with getting the message. If you’re going to put it all on the table, you better at least have the cards."
You're never too old to learn.
Peters was right to push all his chips into the middle. It didn't work out. It happens like that sometimes, and the NFL can find you out quickly. Even though the injury decimation of Washington's roster was a legitimate excuse, the man in charge knew a complete rethink was needed.
The Commanders got younger. They got more dynamic, more athletic, and more vibrant. There is a newfound energy to the squad that wasn't evident last season. And most of the players acquired could be around for a long time if they meet expectations.
Washington and Peters found out the hard way that the NFL is a year-to-year league. Even for an experienced front-office figure who's been part of successful franchises since he got into the league, the lessons can be harsh.
Fortunately for the Commanders, Peters knew how to adapt his strategy while maintaining future financial flexibility. The foundations are now stable again. And with a little bit of good fortune on the injury front next season, Washington should be much more competitive.
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