Adam Peters saw a prime opportunity this offseason. For the first time in decades, the Washington Commanders were riding high after an impressive run to the NFC Championship game in 2024. Seizing this momentum became his top priority.
Peters has a long-term vision to turn the Commanders into a perennial contender. However, this plan was slightly adjusted as the team’s progress accelerated due to improved performance, a shift in locker room culture, and the unexpected discovery of a franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels.
Daniels was a revelation, with his strong work ethic, calm demeanor, and ability to deliver in key moments leading Washington to heights no one predicted. Peters recognized this and made every effort to fully capitalize on Daniels’ rookie contract by being highly aggressive in his approach.
Most of the Commanders’ major moves came through trades. Peters focused on re-signing key free agents who contributed greatly to the team’s success last season. With the exception of defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw, any new signings from the veteran market were for one-year deals with proven players who had winning experience elsewhere.
It was a solid start, but the road ahead is still challenging. With that in mind, here are five key priorities for the Commanders following the 2025 free agency period.
Adam Peters sensed an outstanding opportunity awaited him this offseason. Momentum was high across the Washington Commanders for the first time in decades after a sensational run to the NFC Championship game in 2024. Capitalizing on it became the general manager’s biggest desire above all else.
Peters has a long-term plan to make the Commanders a perennial powerhouse. This altered slightly with the project ahead of schedule, which stemmed from improved results, a remarkable locker room culture shift, and finding a franchise quarterback at the first time of asking.
Jayden Daniels was a revelation. His work ethic, quiet aura, and ability to come through when it mattered most propelled Washington to heights nobody expected. Peters recognized this, turning over every stone and being ultra-aggressive to maximize the signal-caller’s rookie contract.
Most of the Commanders’ big splashes came in the trade market. Peters wanted to re-sign most of his free agents who gave so much to the cause last season. Aside from defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw, any incomings from the veteran pool were one-year deals for proven performers with previous winning experiences elsewhere.
It was a good start, but there is hard work ahead. With this in mind, here are five pressing priorities remaining for the Commanders after 2025 free agency.
Pressing remaining Commanders’ priorities after 2025 free agency
Find another kicker
The Washington Commanders showed their confidence in Zane Gonzalez by giving him a new one-year contract this offseason. While the veteran kicker had some struggles and doesn’t have the strongest leg, the team’s leadership believes there’s more potential with a full offseason of preparation under their experienced coaching staff.
However, this doesn’t guarantee Gonzalez a clear path to the starting role in 2025. The Commanders are aiming to boost competition across the board, so bringing in a kicker for a genuine competition during the summer should be one of Adam Peters’ key priorities.
Austin Seibert, who set a franchise record for field goals in a game during his debut against the New York Giants, remains a free agent. His momentum was derailed by injuries when he seemed like a potential long-term solution. If the interest is mutual, the Commanders could give him another shot to compete with Gonzalez.
Another free agent could also be brought in, or the team might look to the college ranks for a younger kicker with more potential. Regardless of the path Peters takes, complacency in the kicking game cannot be allowed to settle in.
Commanders must extend Terry McLaurin
Few players deserved last season’s remarkable rise to prominence more than Terry McLaurin. The wide receiver endured a series of underwhelming quarterbacks throughout his career with the Washington Commanders before the new regime took over. While others expressed frustration with the team’s struggles, McLaurin remained professional, always prioritizing the franchise’s success.
McLaurin is both a respected leader in the locker room and an exceptional performer on the field. With the help of Jayden Daniels, he reached new heights, setting the franchise record for single-season receiving touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors, and being named to the second-team All-Pro list for his outstanding play.
The Commanders understand how crucial McLaurin is to their future plans. With just one year left on his contract, many expected an extension to be in the works this offseason.
So far, that hasn’t happened. The Commanders initially focused on other roster moves, which is understandable. However, with the main free agency period now over and the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, it may not be long before they come to terms.
The process should be straightforward. McLaurin is committed to the team, and the feeling is mutual. While an extension won’t be cheap — the former Ohio State star could command around $30 million per year — he’s certainly worth every penny.
Commanders’ running back dynamic
One of the most unexpected developments in the Commanders’ offseason so far has been their handling of the running back position. Despite the unit’s decline in performance toward the end of the 2024 season and into the postseason, general manager Adam Peters resisted making any major changes.
The Commanders have stuck with their running back options from last year. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are both in the final year of their contracts. Jeremy McNichols was unexpectedly re-signed, and former sixth-round pick Chris Rodriguez Jr. received an exclusive rights tender after showing promise when given opportunities.
This vote of confidence is significant. However, it doesn’t negate the team’s clear need for an explosive change-of-pace running back to complement quarterback star Jayden Daniels in the backfield.
With fewer options available on the free agent market, Peters could address this pressing need in the 2025 NFL Draft. Although the Commanders currently have only five picks, this year’s draft class features a deep pool of running backs. Capitalizing on this talent — potentially much sooner than expected — will be crucial.
As for the future of Robinson and Ekeler, it remains uncertain. However, Peters’ approach to roster-building is driven solely by pragmatism, with no room for sentimentality.
Maximizing Commanders draft capital
The Washington Commanders made a significant investment in draft assets this offseason, particularly through the trade market. It all began before the 2024 deadline when general manager Adam Peters acquired Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. This strategy continued with two high-profile moves for proven players who can contribute right away.
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. was brought in for just a fifth-round pick. A versatile weapon, Samuel has a strong connection with Peters from their time together with the San Francisco 49ers. Despite a down year, he seems highly motivated to take on a new challenge and help the Commanders take the next step.
The acquisition of elite left tackle Laremy Tunsil is a major move. He’s a top-tier blindside protector who can provide immense support for quarterback Jayden Daniels. This acquisition is a statement of intent, signaling that the Commanders are serious about competing immediately.
As a result, Peters now has limited draft capital for 2025. The Commanders hold only five picks, with their first selection coming at No. 29 overall in the first round. Making the most of these assets is critical.
Peters had great success with his first draft class and would likely appreciate more picks. Therefore, trading down in the first or second round seems like a possibility. It will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds, but fans are confident in the new front office’s approach.
Commanders trench dynamics
As mentioned earlier, the trade acquisition of Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans is a game-changer for the Commanders. He’s the most accomplished left tackle Washington has had since Trent Williams. While his penalties last season weren’t ideal, the veteran is more than capable of addressing these issues in a new environment.
Tunsil’s arrival shifts the dynamics of the offensive line. It presents a tough puzzle for Adam Peters and the coaching staff to solve, especially with standout right guard Sam Cosmi expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season after tearing his ACL against the Detroit Lions.
Brandon Coleman is likely to move to the right side, either at tackle or guard. Andrew Wylie, who took a pay cut to stay, remains on the roster, but his exact role is still to be determined. Peters may also look to add another option in the draft if the right opportunity arises.
On the defensive side, the line will feel different without veteran Jonathan Allen, who was released after being a cornerstone since 2017. Javon Kinlaw has been brought in to help fill the void alongside Johnny Newton and Daron Payne, but it would be surprising if Peters didn’t seek out an explosive edge rusher from the college ranks.
Currently, the defensive end options include Dorance Armstrong Jr., Deatrich Wise Jr., Clelin Ferrell, Jacob Martin, and Javontae Jean-Baptiste. This group likely won’t be enough for the Commanders if they aim to keep up with, or potentially surpass, the Philadelphia Eagles.
