Jeremy Reaves delivers a brutal reality check the tank brigade weren’t ready for

As the Washington Commanders navigate a season of immense turbulence, fans have already turned their attention to what comes next. Some are focusing on the offseason and what reinforcements could arrive with the assets at general manager Adam Peters' disposal.

This should all start with his draft picks. Peters only has six selections in 2026 — two of which are in the first four rounds. Sections of the fan base believe that a higher pick could enable Washington to either navigate a trade down or take a blue-chip difference-maker. If that means losing out, they are willing to take some short-term pain for long-term prosperity.

Unfortunately, those in the locker room are not wired the same. They are still working tirelessly to salvage something from the season. That was evidenced during their Week 15 triumph over the New York Giants, even though it didn't please everybody.

Jeremy Reaves had some disappointing news for the Commanders' tank enthusiasts

Tanking is not in any NFL player's mindset. They have pride, and dozens are fighting for their futures in Washington beyond 2025. When push comes to shove, they don't care about draft picks. They are only interested in themselves, their teammates, and the club's growth.

Just ask veteran safety Jeremy Reaves...

This was a brutal reality check to those who believe the Commanders should roll over. And besides, which player is going to adopt this mentality so the franchise can draft a prospect to take their place?

Nobody. This game is too violent for that, and anything less than maximum effort is only going to increase the risk of serious injury.

Head coach Dan Quinn still has the full support of the locker room. They might not have hit the meteoric heights achieved last season, but everyone is still pulling in the same direction. The Commanders may not win another game upon further examination of the opposition. But they will be trying hard to do so, despite the pleas of Washington's tank brigade.

There's no guarantee Peters would get a trade-down partner or pick the right prospect with a higher draft pick in any case. Anything can happen over the weekend. Absolutely nothing is guaranteed.

Prospects taken No. 1 overall often turn out to be busts. Players taken with the final pick become franchise cornerstones. There is no exact science, and even though it would be nice for the Commanders to accumulate more selections, that's Peters' problem, not the players putting their bodies on the line.

This isn't the NBA. The Commanders are playing to win, as it should be.