Adam Peters and Dan Quinn weren't happy with the performance during the Washington Commanders' preseason curtain-raiser versus the New England Patriots. And that might be understating things slightly.
Very few came out of the contest with encouragement. Potential flaws were exposed, giving the general manager and head coach plenty to think about before finalizing their squad for the new campaign.
Peters made several roster changes after the clash, including the release of linebacker Dominique Hampton. This was the first time Washington had cut a draft pick from the current front-office leader, which sent a loud message to everyone on the fringes about the need to raise standards or suffer a similar fate.
There isn't much time to alter perceptions. The Commanders have just two weeks remaining until final cuts are due. They have two preseason games, including on the bright lights of Monday Night Football, to navigate before some tough choices are discussed. And looking at the ruthless way Peters has built this roster, he won't hesitate to pull the trigger if he feels like it will benefit the franchise.
With this in mind, we took a look at how the Commanders' 53-man roster could look after the first preseason game.
Commanders' 53-man roster projection unleashes Adam Peters' ruthless vision
Commanders' special teams roster projection
- Matt Gay (PK), Tress Way (P), Tyler Ott (LS)
There wasn't much debate about the special teams trio. However, the recent frailties of Matt Gay have seen calls to have a late kicking competition before the campaign.
Those fell on deaf ears where Dan Quinn was concerned. He's confident that Gay can come through when it counts. And it's also worth noting that the veteran has been almost automatic more often than not during the summer.
The Commanders gave Gay the most guaranteed money for any kicker on a one-year deal in league history. They're not going to give up so soon, but the life of an NFL kicker is precarious unless the required consistency is displayed.
Washington's other two spots are locked up. Legendary punter Tress Way is the team's longest-serving player. More importantly, he is still performing at a high level. His supreme leadership in the locker room also serves as inspiration to others, which is an overlooked yet pivotal part of his overall presence.
There is also long-snapper Tyler Ott. He barely put a foot wrong in 2024, which is a far cry from the catastrophes Washington churned out at the position before his arrival.