Commanders GM Adam Peters lauded for free agency masterclass

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters has been lauded for his perceived free agency masterclass so far in 2024.

Adam Peters might be navigating his first offseason as an NFL general manager, but this is not his first rodeo. The respected front-office figure was instrumental behind the scenes as the San Francisco 49ers constructed one of the league's most formidable rosters. He's also been part of other winning organizations in various roles. He was more than ready to assume significant responsibilities.

Now, the Washington Commanders are benefitting.

Peters has gone about his business with ruthless conviction so far. He said not to expect any reckless spending. Instead, there's been a methodical approach that filled key needs and kept financial flexibility in the short and long term. This is a refreshing change of pace from the hazardous manner in which Dan Snyder handed out bad contracts to big names who failed spectacularly.

Commanders get A grade for free agency moves

The Commanders are on a different path now. We can all be thankful for that.

This is a sentiment echoed by Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus, who gave the Commanders an A grade - No. 1 in the NFC - for their free agency moves so far. The writer highlighted the additions of Dorance Armstrong, Frankie Luvu, and Austin Ekeler as ones that stood out. There's also the small matter of Washington's quarterback plans to factor into the equation.

"[Dorance] Armstrong is a proven perfect fit with new Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, who immediately helped him take his game to new heights upon arriving in Dallas three years ago. Washington could still stand to make another move at edge rusher, with Armstrong more a rotational piece than a top guy, but linebacker Frankie Luvu also adds another pass rush element. [Austin] Ekeler brings the pass-catching element to Washington, which lost Antonio Gibson in free agency to the New England Patriots. The Washington Commanders join the Patriots as a team picking in the top three of the draft that probably doesn’t want a young player backing up a top draft pick, with Jacoby Brissett and [Marcus] Mariota now serving as bridges to the future. In addition, his athleticism and mobility, paired with a big arm, is the profile of quarterback Kliff Kingsbury likes to work with."

- Trevor Sikkema, PFF

Peters has been putting on a clinic. He was the right guy to lead the Commanders into their exciting new era under Josh Harris' ownership group. However, head coach Dan Quinn also deserves recognition for having a reputation in league circles that is enticing players who had offers from elsewhere.

According to Spotrac, the Commanders have $57.38 million in available salary-cap space. In 2025, this rises to $151.13 million with 30 players under contract. Peters has kept his future planning in mind while also being extremely active in finding pieces he thinks can help the team's chances of immediate growth.

It's been a masterclass - one that's raised optimism even further above what might be ahead. Peters has been waiting patiently for an opportunity such as this to arrive. He's keen to make the most of it.

Of course, this doesn't guarantee success. But it's a good place to start.

More importantly, Peters' plans are in their infancy. The best is yet to come.