Adam Peters is trying to figure out how best to approach his third offseason with the Washington Commanders. It's a pivotal one for the general manager, especially considering how woeful things have been throughout the 2025 campaign.
Draft picks are scarce at the top end. That makes things more difficult, but Peters should have around $100 million to spend in free agency once the necessary sacrifices are made.
The front-office leader would be wise to maximize every cent to enhance the team's chances of progress. And there is one prized free agent who made a prime-time statement that the Commanders can't ignore.
Commanders should put Kyle Pitts on their shopping list after stunning prime-time performance
Kyle Pitts has been something of an enigma in recent years. The tight end came into the league with generational projections before being taken by the Atlanta Falcons at No. 4 overall, ahead of prospects like wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase and offensive tackle Penei Sewell. After going over 1,000 receiving yards as a rookie, it looked like superstardom beckoned for the Florida product.
Things have tailed off slightly since. Pitts is still putting up decent numbers, but it was nowhere near consistent enough. The Falcons picked up his fifth-year option with no long-term contract extension. They might be regretting that choice now, based on the player's progress in difficult circumstances this season.
Pitts took this to even greater heights on Thursday Night Football against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If the fifth-year pro was using this as a chance to put himself in the shop window, he took full advantage. The tight end was relentless, finishing the game with 11 receptions from 13 targets for 166 receiving yards and three touchdowns as the Falcons overcame a two-score deficit to triumph.
This is only going to add more dollars to his demands. The Falcons could extend him or slap Pitts with the franchise tag. But if he gets the chance to test the market, there could be a queue of suitors looking to bring him into the fold.
The Commanders should be among the first to inquire. They need a long-term successor to Zach Ertz, who's likely played his last game for the club after suffering a devastating ACL tear against the Minnesota Vikings. If Ben Sinnott or Colson Yankoff cannot prove themselves with increased responsibilities in the coming weeks, the need becomes even more urgent.
A bidding war would only raise the price. However, even though things haven't gone well for the Commanders this season, Jayden Daniels remains a strong selling point for free agents.
Getting the chance to play in a big market with a team still boasting lofty long-term goals should intrigue Pitts. Simply put, this has more intrigue than most set to hit the market. And he must be on Washington's shortlist.
Time will tell on that one...