The honeymoon phase is officially over for Washington Commanders' GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn. After a promising start, the team hit a roadblock last season, finishing 5-12. The ambitious trades for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil didn't pan out as expected, largely due to quarterback Jayden Daniels' injury struggles.
With only two picks in the top 100 and just six overall, the Commanders have limited resources to revamp their roster. It’s a tight spot for a team that went all-in on veteran talent.
The Commanders initially believed they were just a few pieces away from completing a remarkable turnaround after Daniels' impressive rookie season in 2024. However, Peters' decision to trade for seasoned players left the team short on draft picks, a move that could haunt them in the long run.
The key to the Commanders' future lies in keeping Daniels healthy. Concerns about his slender frame and durability have been validated, as he managed to play only seven games in 2025 due to multiple injuries. The challenge now is to get Daniels back to his rookie form while ensuring he stays on the field.
How the Commanders navigate free agency will be crucial. They need to be strategic, avoiding the temptation to rely on veteran trades.
The focus should be on building around Daniels and using their limited draft capital wisely. This offseason will be a defining moment for Peters and the franchise.