Commanders news: Jayden Daniels, Adam Peters, Jordan Magee and Chigozie Anusiem
By Dean Jones
Draft picks and undrafted free agents will descend on Ashburn as the Washington Commanders begin their rookie minicamp tomorrow (Friday, May 10). All eyes will be on quarterback Jayden Daniels as the No. 2 overall selection, but this is the first chance to make a big impression regardless of their standing during the pre-draft process.
This is typically known as a bedding-in period with players still learning the playbook. It'll be a crash course for most, but there is no time to revel in their newfound NFL success before joining forces with established veterans a little further down the line.
A fascinating few days await. Until then, the stories causing conversation include Daniels' ambitions for the 2024 campaign, Adam Peters' collaborative approach shifting the mindset, Jordan Magee named as a potential draft sleeper, and Chigozie Anusiem's chances of making the 53-man roster.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders GM Adam Peters' approach
One doesn't have to look far around the media for praise where Adam Peters is concerned. The general manager was lauded for how he handled his first NFL Draft in a prominent leadership position. Everything must come together on the field, but the Washington Commanders can relax safely knowing they have the right man in charge.
This is noticed by those in the building, too. When speaking to someone within the organization, Ralph Vacchiano from FOX Sports highlighted the collaborative approach and collective conviction throughout the college selection process. Something that represents a significant change of pace after so much personnel mismanagement during Dan Snyder's ownership.
"I can't remember the last time there wasn't some fighting about a draft pick, or at least some griping behind each other's backs. Things sure feel different around here now."
This is arguably the biggest positive above all else. The toxic cloud of previous regimes is gone, replaced with sunny skies and complete professionalism with no sentiment attached to Washington's decision-making process. It's just the start for Peters and there is a lot more hard work ahead, but the Commanders are in the best possible hands.