5 difficult decisions facing Commanders GM Adam Peters in 2024

Commanders must decide Sam Howell's fate

This is the single most important player evaluation Adam Peters must do. The Washington Commanders' entire draft strategy hinges on quarterback Sam Howell’s perceived ceiling.

If Peters were to decide that Howell was the man he wanted to build around, it would open up the entire draft board. A trade-down from pick No. 2 becomes not only possible, but almost a certainty.

In this scenario, Peters could stock up on picks as part of his ethos to build through the draft. This would allow him greater flexibility during the later rounds to target specific players and areas of need.

If, on the other hand, Peters decides Howell is a limited prospect, it means he will need to plan for a future with Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or maybe even Jayden Daniels as his franchise quarterback. He needs to decide how much he would be willing to give up to move to No. 1 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft if that is what it takes to get his man.

And then there is the middle road.

If Peters does not feel ready to make a final decision on Howell, he will have the chance to draft one of several intriguing prospects in the later rounds. Prospects like Michael Penix Jr. or Bo Nix would enter training camp as the backup, but would hopefully begin challenging for the starting spot by their second season.