The Washington Commanders did more than examine potential draft prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine. Adam Peters was on the lookout for veteran help in the trade market, striking a deal with the San Francisco 49ers for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr.
This was another significant statement by the Commanders. They want to build on a memorable first year under the new regime. They don't want this newfound momentum to be wasted. Peters is leaving no stone unturned and striking with conviction when opportunities arise.
Samuel is a dynamic, versatile playmaker. Bouncing back from a down year is key, but the Commanders are confident a fresh challenge is just what the former second-round pick out of South Carolina needs at this stage of his career.
It did not cost the Commanders much to see what Samuel could bring to Kliff Kingsbury's offense. A fifth-round selection was enough compensation to seal the deal. If the wideout manages to regain his Pro Bowl-caliber production with quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels leading the charge, it's got absolute steal written all over it.
Commanders must maximize every NFL Draft resource after Deebo Samuel trade
Parting ways with another draft pick was a risk Peters deemed acceptable. However, it further diminished the draft assets at Washington's disposal in 2025.
The Commanders have six selections across the seven rounds. There's a good chance Peters gets more capital in some capacity, perhaps by trading down at some stage or finding a trade partner for veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. But make no mistake, Peters will not be happy with the current number.
Peters wants to build through the draft. There's an urgent need to maximize Daniels' rookie contract with Washington's Super Bowl window open, so finding the right balance is crucial. Fortunately for fans, they are no longer apprehensive about the future.
There is hope. They have complete faith in Peters and the front office to make the moves needed for short-term success while also keeping an eye on the bigger picture. He's always thinking two steps ahead, and the Commanders are better off for it.
If Samuel's arrival is any indication, this is going to be another fascinating and enthralling recruitment period for the Commanders. If Peters can find the right quality to fit seamlessly into the team's improved culture, the better Washington's chances will be in 2025 and beyond.
Using the Pro Football Network simulator, we took a look at how the Commanders might approach their 2025 NFL Draft selections in our post-Samuel trade and combine mock.