Adam Peters has the Washington Commanders primed for another deep postseason run in 2025 after a frantic recruitment period so far.
The general manager knows this is the time to strike. Momentum is with the Commanders after a sensational first campaign under the new regime. Peters acted accordingly by making some daring trades, splashing the cash on one free agent, and making a concerted effort to retain those who gave so much to the cause in 2024.
This is the luxury teams have when they hit on their rookie quarterback. The Commanders did just that with Jayden Daniels, who looked like a bona fide superstar in Year 1 of his professional career. And he's only going to get better once his supporting cast improves.
Peters spent wisely aside from perhaps the contract given to Javon Kinlaw. His three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed came with raised eyebrows around the league. But if the front-office leader believes he can help solidify the trenches, that should be good enough to appease Washington's loyal fanbase.
NFL analyst expects Commanders to make another playoff push in 2025
Mason Cameron from Pro Football Focus placed the Commanders at No. 6 in his post-free agency power rankings. The analyst highlighted Washington's increased urgency as a reason for optimism, leaving him confident Dan Quinn's squad can make another bold playoff bid if some defensive flaws can be resolved in the coming months.
"The Commanders’ trajectory changed dramatically after just one season with Jayden Daniels at the helm, and they approached their offseason acquisitions with the same urgency to match their new contender status. Headlined by blockbuster trades for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil, Washington also retained key veteran leaders in Bobby Wagner and Zach Ertz. While the defense remains a concern after finishing 29th in EPA allowed per play, this year’s draft class is full of potential defensive cornerstones. If the Commanders can address those deficiencies, they could be gearing up for a defining run in 2025."Mason Cameron
With big acquisitions and on-field success comes raised expectancy from media and fans alike. The Commanders did a good job of blocking the outside noise last season and remaining focused on the task at hand. Looking at the experienced figures acquired and the number of players re-signed, expect the same mindset next time around.
Quinn won't stand for anything less.
The Commanders had a lot of money to spend. But for Peters, this was about finding the right guys who could slot into the team's culture shift seamlessly and also produce when it counts.
It was mission accomplished in that sense, at least on paper. Everything looks rosy right now and Peters is getting glowing reviews for another recruitment masterclass. That will count for nothing if the new arrivals don't meet the required standards.
Peters is only in phase two of his long-term plan to get the Commanders among the NFL's heavyweights. Things have sped up thanks to Washington's 2024 fairytale. But the project is proceeding as expected with methodical moves that don't jeopardize future flexibility.
If last season was any indication, it's going to be another exciting ride.