Excitement couldn't be higher for the Washington Commanders entering the offseason. They are coming off an incredible campaign where they reached the NFC Championship game against all odds. Adam Peters is well-positioned to build on this newfound positivity in the coming months.
The Commanders have the third-most available salary-cap space currently. This increased after the league confirmed another huge hike, which is only going to help Peters' cause. Washington has seven selections in the 2025 NFL Draft. They are also an attractive destination after restoring their reputation.
Peters isn't going to be reckless. There's a need for aggressiveness and calculated risks if the right opportunities present themselves. However, the general manager has a long-term plan in place and won't jeopardize this with rash decision-making.
Fans are eagerly anticipating what comes next with free agency on the immediate horizon. One respected insider provided some clues about what the Commanders could prioritize when the recruitment period commences.
ESPN insider reveals clues over Commanders' offseason approach
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN expects the Commanders to find a complimentary piece to go alongside wide receiver Terry McLaurin. He thought Washington would allocate substantial resources to the pass-rush and offensive line. He also anticipates some prominent veterans out of contract to return on new deals.
"Adam Peters and Dan Quinn had to kind of piece it together as best they could. Did an admirable job, but I expect reinforcements. Yes, I know Washington fans desperately want that number-two receiver opposite Terry McLaurin. I do think they'll address that in some form, but they could allocate more resources to their offensive line and their pass rush if they lose Dante Fowler in free agency. Also, they have a ton of good players who just played out one-year deals that they could bring back. Bobby Wagner played great. Zach Ertz was a really good target for Jayden Daniels. Safety Jeremy Chinn, you'll see some of those pieces back most likely."Jeremy Fowler
This is exactly what Commanders fans want to hear. Every area Fowler discussed became an issue last season. Peters won't be settling with any position group, but some needs are more glaring than others.
Players are actively seeking out the Commanders rather than turning away in disgust when they approach. That represents a refreshing change of pace from the previous owner, but Peters still needs to find the right talent to improve the squad while also ensuring they fit into the team's new culture shift.
Peters worked hard to put the right people around him in the front office. There is collaboration and purpose. He's getting the full support of Josh Harris' ownership group and actively seeks the input of coaches before making decisions. The early results were immediate, but what comes next is more important.
If the Commanders recruit well, their young talent develops further, and everyone benefits from the schematic continuity, another bold playoff bid won't be too far behind. Anything less would be a major disappointment for fans expecting this sleeping giant to become a perennial powerhouse again.
It's been a long time since the Commanders were in such a prosperous position on and off the field. The onus is on Peters to make it count.