The Washington Commanders lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the playoff race. Although disappointing, reaching the NFC Championship game in Year 1 under head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters represents a sensational accomplishment.
Washington is a football hotbed once again. The team is gaining national headlines for all the right reasons, and the future is incredibly bright. Peters also has the resources needed to build in the coming months before the 2025 campaign arrives.
Big changes are coming. The Commanders got much more than they bargained for with this group — a testament to the mentality and locker room culture installed by Quinn. But the price of progress means Peters shouldn't settle.
There is a need to improve almost every position group. They must maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract before he becomes extension-eligible. Some have done their chances of an extended stay a tremendous amount of good. Unfortunately for others, they won't come along for the ride.
Peters has $90.95 million to spend in free agency, which could increase once extensions, restructures, and early releases become public knowledge. The respected front-office leader also has seven draft selections to find immediate difference-makers and improve depth.
Commanders GM Adam Peters must utilize his 2025 NFL Draft selections effectively
Washington's season might be over, but Peters's hard work is just getting started. He'll be at the Senior Bowl this week as the pre-draft assessment process gathers pace. This will be followed by the NFL Scouting Combine, pro days, and countless interviews with potential prospects of interest before the high-profile selection event.
The Commanders got some outstanding returns from Peters' first draft class. They found a franchise quarterback. They got two defensive starters and an offensive lineman who could have a profitable career. While Ben Sinnott, Jordan Magee, and Luke McCaffrey remain unknown quantities, they have the upside to develop with another offseason under their belts.
It'll be interesting to see how Peters goes about his business this offseason. Needs will change depending on free agency. One couldn't rule out a daring move in the trade market if the right opportunity comes along. Fans are eagerly anticipating developments and are confident this enhanced regime can build on the best possible start.
Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we took a look at how the Commanders might approach their 2025 NFL Draft picks in our first offseason seven-round mock of this year's cycle.