For the first time since 2020, the Washington Commanders have the postseason to navigate before another important offseason. Nobody expected the franchise to be in this position, but that doesn't stop the hard work behind the scenes as the 2025 recruitment period draws closer.
General manager Adam Peters did a remarkable job over his first season. He gutted the roster, disposed of the deadwood with ruthless conviction, and kept flexibility for his long-term plan. The Commanders are also a coveted destination after reinstalling a sense of professionalism and belief. That's only going to help in the coming months.
Peters has around $100 million in available salary-cap space to find veteran pieces. The Commanders gave up some draft capital for cornerback Marshon Lattimore, but they still boast seven selections to utilize effectively.
Prospects involved in the college football playoffs have been staking a strong claim for consideration in high-pressure situations. Some have wilted with the spotlight glaring. Others have thrived to bolster their stock considerably.
With this in mind, here are five prospects the Commanders should examine in greater detail after a thrilling CFP quarterfinal stage. We'll start with promising tight end Tyler Warren.
Draft prospects the Commanders should target after CFP quarterfinals
Commanders could target Tyler Warren
- Tight End | Penn State Nittany Lions
Zach Ertz repaid the faith shown in him by the Washington Commanders this season. Not many thought the veteran tight end had anything left in the tank after a difficult couple of years. He's answered these critics and more.
Ertz became a dependable target for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels in crucial moments. His outstanding touchdown catch in overtime against the Atlanta Falcons booked Washington's place in the playoffs and earned the former second-round pick some nice bonuses along the way.
The Commanders have a big decision to make with Ertz this offseason. They could keep him around on another short-term deal. Adam Peters might also find a long-term partner to put alongside second-round rookie Ben Sinnott, who remains an unknown quantity.
Tyler Warren's stock has soared in recent weeks. The Penn State prospect is among college football's most assured pass-catchers and is a willing blocker. His starring effort to lead the Nittany Lions to victory over Boise State won't have gone unnoticed by NFL scouts.
Most analysts are now projecting Warren to go in the first round. That might be a little too rich for the Commanders considering their big investment in Sinnott last spring, but it shouldn't be completely dismissed.