Adam Peters near misses spark concern as Commanders left searching for answers

Adam Peters was a very busy man during free agency. The Washington Commanders' drastic overhaul has brought 15 new faces into the fold and counting. However, one team reporter identified an area that remains a concern heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.

Peters was expected to be aggressive. The Commanders were coming off five wins, had plenty of salary-cap space, and a plethora of holes to fill. This proved accurate, but failing to land another prolific wide receiver to play opposite Terry McLaurin has been a mission failure so far.

The Commanders tried. Peters reportedly made Alec Pierce a substantial offer before he returned to the Indianapolis Colts. Washington was also unsuccessful in its pursuit of Romeo Doubs, who signed for the New England Patriots. Two signings — the returning Dyami Brown and veteran Van Jefferson Jr. — were made, but they are seen as depth pieces rather than game-changers.

Commanders reporter left disappointed by Adam Peters' misses at wide receiver

David Harrison of WUSA9 was left feeling disappointed by Washington's wide receiver situation. There is still time, but the reporter thought that coming up empty with some ambitious moves could hinder the offense unless Peters moves on with conviction.

"You would have to think the receiver situation is probably the most disappointing. Obviously, you go hard after Alec Pierce, and it was no secret that his preference was to go back to the Indianapolis. Pivoting to Romeo Doubs, taking a swing and missing there.

"I think everyone loves Dyami [Brown], and he was always loved in the building. I don't think anybody's sad to bring Dyami back, but when you go after two guys like that, and you come up empty, there's just going to be a letdown type of feeling. You've quickly got to get over it and move on."

Peters should know there isn't enough in the receiver room. There remains promise with the likes of Jaylin Lane and Luke McCaffrey, but finding another needle-mover is crucial.

Speculation remains high about Brandon Aiyuk joining the ranks, but his broken-down relationship with the San Francisco 49ers is bringing bitter pettiness into the equation. Peters can't bet on that, so finding another prolific prospect via the draft should be high on his list of objectives.

The Commanders have shown an interest in Ohio State wideout Carnell Tate, who could be the No. 7 pick. Makai Lemon also came in for a private workout, and several others will be considered. There are also some intriguing options remaining on the veteran pool, which include the possibility of re-signing Deebo Samuel Sr. if all else fails.

Having Pierce or Doubs would have been nice, but if Peters can find one or two more bodies from the options available, it won't be the end of the world from Washington's standpoint.