The Washington Commanders have one more game ahead of them before attention turns to a pivotal offseason for the franchise. And for some established veterans, this will be the end of the road in D.C.
Adam Peters knows what must be done. The general manager was right to push his chips into the middle after reaching the NFC Championship games in Year 1 under head coach Dan Quinn's leadership. It didn't bring the same results, so fans are expecting another roster overhaul in the coming months before preparations for the 2026 campaign gather pace.
Some decisions look more challenging than others. Not everyone will be let go — not with the Commanders having the most pending free agents of any club in the league. But it would be a big surprise if a commitment wasn't made to getting younger and more dynamic across the board.
Jonathan Jones could be embarking on his final snaps with the Commanders
Not everyone will come along for the ride. And for cornerback Jonathan Jones, the Week 18 contest against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field could be his last in a Washington uniform.
Jones was one of several proven performers who joined the Commanders on a one-year deal in free agency. The two-time Super Bowl winner with the New England Patriots was aiming for similar success in a different environment. Unfortunately, injuries and inconsistent performances have led the player to fall short of expectations.
The former Auburn standout has conceded 64.5 percent of targets thrown in his direction and a 92.0 passer rating when targeted. Jones has missed 12.8% of his tackles, and his 56.1 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 80th out of 113 qualifying cornerbacks.
There have been some fleeting moments of promise, but nothing that suggests he will get another deal beyond the campaign. The Commanders have some questions to answer in the cornerback room, with only second-round rookie Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil guaranteed to return. However, the team's plans in this critical area of the field are unlikely to include Jones when push comes to shove.
Cornerbacks tend to fall off a cliff quicker than most. Jones enjoyed a prolific spell in New England, but it's clear that his powers are waning. The Commanders thought they could provide the environment needed to galvanize his career, but it wasn't to be. And now, an uncertain future awaits.
Nothing has been confirmed one way or another. Still, it seems as if Jones — and several other veterans on the decline — are going to be free to take their chances elsewhere.