Adam Peters only had six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Washington Commanders had to use them wisely, and not everyone would be pleased with the outcome.
And one decision, in particular, leaves the Commanders' general manager scrambling for answers.
Most thought the Commanders would address the cornerback position at some stage during the draft. The unit underwent a lot of necessary upheaval this offseason, with two incomings and several departures. Things look a little brighter, but almost every expert had Washington taking a corner with one of its six picks.
That didn't happen.
Commanders have questions to answer at cornerback after NFL Draft decisions
The Commanders went with linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7. Peters clearly felt the value was there further down the pecking order. It's a contentious issue, but those in power are evidently satisfied with the options at their disposal.
Trey Amos and Mike Sainristil, both second-round picks, will lead the charge. They are young and athletic, but it remains to be seen whether they can emerge as franchise cornerstones. The Commanders also signed Amik Robertson and Ahkello Witherspoon in free agency. One is undersized, while the other has dealt with significant injury problems throughout his career.
Unless one of the unheralded options way down the depth chart steps up, the Commanders look light on dependable options. Peters could go down the free-agent route if the right opportunity presents itself, but it's also worth highlighting the interchangeable scheme new coordinator Daronte Jones plans to run.
Jones wants to be aggressive and versatile across the secondary in his projected 3-4 base front. The investments made in the front seven should make it easier on the cornerbacks, but they still have to cover effectively. Someone like Quan Martin or Tyler Owens could help as the big nickel, but there are a lot of unknowns attached.
The Commanders may believe they don't need a legitimate shutdown corner in this system. They may believe Amos can become one after his impressive rookie flashes. They may also feel like the draft value wasn't there, and a better option could become available in the veteran pool at some stage.
All are legitimate reasons. But from the outside looking in, it remains incredibly risky.
Peters has a plan in place. He's aggressive and strategic. Washington's front-office leader has moved in a very different direction this offseason, and the Commanders look to be in better shape. But if a lack of priority to the cornerback position eventually becomes their undoing, questions will be asked.
Time will tell on that, but there is still a long way to go before competitive action resumes.
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