Adam Peters implemented a ruthless roster-building strategy to turn the Washington Commanders around. The general manager's business-first mindset was a breath of fresh air for this once-moribund sleeping giant. The improvements were immediate.
Washington went from a bottom-feeder to the NFC Championship game in one season. Peters recognized his Super Bowl window was open with a franchise quarterback on a rookie deal. Capitalizing on it was crucial.
The Commanders were aggressive this offseason, especially in the trade market. This was the right call to make, but it left Peters with just five picks during the 2025 NFL Draft to find immediate difference-makers and bolster depth.
Peters also sent an unmistakable message to these five players with his draft choices in 2025. How they respond will be crucial to their chances.
Commanders sent an unmistakable message to these players with their draft choices
Andrew Wylie - Commanders OL
The Commanders raised eyebrows at No. 29 overall by resisting trade offers to draft offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. Peters rated the player highly and stood pat to take the edge protector rather than accumulating more assets.
What this means for the offensive line dynamic remains to be seen. It would be surprising if Conerly didn't lock up the right tackle spot immediately, which means Andrew Wylie could be in line for a demotion to rotational duties when it's all said and done.
Marshon Lattimore - Commanders CB
Washington had a decent cornerback quartet heading into the draft, but Peters isn't one to ignore prospects high on his board just because they don't fill an urgent need. That proved to be the case with Trey Amos.
The Ole Miss graduate is a physical boundary cornerback with the size and length to make an immediate impact with a smooth transition. Amos' arrival throws down the gauntlet to Marshon Lattimore, who must bounce back from a disappointing campaign that was riddled with injury issues.
Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
The Commanders still have high hopes for Luke McCaffery. Last year's third-round pick was used sparingly as a rookie, but he did flash promise when targets came his way in the passing game. There was also a lot to like about his contribution as a kick returner.
McCaffrey needs to build on this throughout the offseason. He'll have some extra competition for reps after the Commanders selected Jaylin Lane with the No. 128 overall pick, so the stakes have been raised in no uncertain terms.
Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
Fans were clamoring for the Commanders to take another running back at some stage during the draft. They were made to wait, but Peters got his guy with Jacory Croskey-Merritt at No. 245 overall.
The dynamic backfield threat went under the radar after his 2024 campaign was cut short due to eligibility issues. Analysts believe this could be a potential steal for the Commanders, so Brian Robinson Jr. must respond accordingly to keep the rookie buried on the depth chart.
Jordan Magee - Commanders LB
The Commanders caused a stir by spending one of their draft picks on Kain Medrano. His production at UCLA was inconsistent, but those in power believe his eye-catching athleticism can be molded into something more.
Jordan Magee came into the Commanders with a similar athletic upside, but his rookie campaign was blighted by injury. He must hit the ground running throughout the offseason to secure the primary backup linebacker role behind Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu.