Adam Peters left a significant impression on the Washington Commanders. The general manager came in with a concise plan to turn things around. This happened much sooner than expected after a sensational 12-win regular season that concluded with a trip to the NFC Championship game.
It was the stuff of dreams for every Commanders fan. But one NFL analyst believes it's raised expectations to exponential levels that Peters must match moving forward.
We saw first-hand what a successful on-field product could do for Washington's passionate fanbase. They came alive after experiencing nothing but misery for two decades. They could scarcely believe what was unfolding in front of their eyes. Peters worked hard throughout the offseason to ensure this has the best possible chance of becoming sustainable en route to perennial contention.
Bold trades, proven veterans coming into the fold, and re-signing the large majority of free agents who were part of Washington's majestic 2024 success were the routes Peters chose to go down. Replicating last year's accomplishments will be difficult, but hopes couldn't be much higher right now.
Analyst challenges Adam Peters to make Commanders' success more sustainable
Gary Davenport from The Bleacher Report offered a promising prognosis where Peters is concerned, giving him a 2/10 on the hot seat scale. However, the analyst also acknowledged that with improved success comes raised expectations. Meeting them is crucial.
"After a seven-year stint in the personnel department of the San Francisco 49ers, [Adam] Peters took over as Washington’s general manager last year. And the 45-year-old hit the ground running in the nation’s capital. Peters’ first draft pick (quarterback Jayden Daniels) was the runaway choice for Offensive Rookie of the Year a year ago, and the Commanders surprisingly made it all the way to the NFC Championship Game. Peters was wildly aggressive adding veteran talent this offseason, so there will be greatly increased expectations in 2025. But for now at least, it’s all smiles in the nation’s capital."Gary Davenport
Peters has a long-term plan in place. The Commanders' instant surge into contention made the front-office leader pivot slightly from his original thought process, but the overall objectives remained the same. He wants to get Washington back to the NFL's top table and keep them there.
Nothing else will do. Not now.
It would be surprising if the Commanders didn't make a bold postseason bid in 2025. They have quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels under center, some outstanding offensive weapons, an improving defense, and a supreme locker room culture. This should make them a tough nut to crack once again. However, they also have a much tougher schedule and a bigger bullseye on their back.
Peters has put the pieces in place with the promise of more to come via the 2025 NFL Draft. There is a high bar for which to aim, but the Commanders have the right man to steer them through.
Hopefully, this is just the start of a special time in franchise history. Peters is turning over every stone to make that a reality.