The Washington Commanders have made significant roster changes to enhance their chances in the upcoming NFL seasons. In a series of strategic moves, the Commanders traded two draft picks for cornerback Marshon Lattimore in October, marking the start of their aggressive push for experienced talent. Additionally, the team has invested in seasoned veterans such as linebacker Bobby Wagner and tight end Zach Ertz. These acquisitions underline the Commanders' commitment to winning and maximizing their Super Bowl window.
General Manager Adam Peters, who has a reputation for building through the draft, acknowledges the trade-offs involved in acquiring veteran talent. The Commanders have strategically positioned themselves with 10 combined picks in the next two drafts, which Peters believes will lay the foundation for Washington's future. Despite these trades, Peters emphasizes the importance of constructing a strong young core, leveraging his past experience with the San Francisco 49ers, where 28 players were drafted under his guidance in the first three seasons.
"There's always going to be trade-offs if you do something like that [trade picks for veterans]," Peters remarked, highlighting the delicate balance between acquiring proven players and nurturing new talent.
One of the key figures in Washington's transformation is quarterback Jayden Daniels. His presence has altered the pace of growth within the team, providing a rare opportunity that the Commanders are eager to capitalize on. The team has also traded two picks in 2025 and two in 2026 for Laremy Tunsil, a five-time Pro Bowl tackle known for his agility and length, both crucial traits for his position.
Tunsil's addition shores up Washington's offensive line, providing solidity and experience. A defensive coach who faced Houston this year lauded Tunsil's abilities, stating:
"When he's healthy and right, he's as good as there is in the league."
The acquisition of receiver Deebo Samuel further strengthens the Commanders' offensive arsenal. While Samuel comes with a $17.5 million cap hit, his dynamic playmaking ability is a valuable asset. Washington acquired him by trading a fifth-round pick, demonstrating their willingness to invest in top-tier talent.
Peters' strategic approach reflects his time as an assistant GM with San Francisco, where he played a crucial role in building a competitive roster through both drafts and trades. His experience is invaluable as Washington seeks to create a balanced roster that combines seasoned veterans with promising young players.
Jamin Ertz commented on the team's strategy, "So for a guy that wants to win now, just like everyone else in this building, sometimes it is a little bit of a shortcut to get a proven commodity — a couple of those guys that are really, really, really good football players and that help our team immediately. There is no guessing or projection."
The Commanders' recent moves indicate a decisive shift towards capitalizing on their current window of opportunity. By blending experienced players with potential-filled draft picks, Washington aims to create a formidable team capable of contending at the highest levels.
Leave a Reply