Commanders' General Manager Faces Challenges Amid Season Struggles

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters is facing a pivotal offseason as the team struggles through a challenging season. According to s Rag, Peters will enter the 2026 offseason with 23 players pending free agency, and the implications of these decisions could significantly shape the team's future.

With all but one of those players being unrestricted free agents, the Commanders are bracing for another rebuild that could define Peters' tenure. The previous regime's poor drafting has left Peters with a roster largely filled with aging veterans, raising questions about the team’s ability to retain talent and build for the future.

The article suggests that the over/under for how many of these players will return is set at 3.5 out of 22 unrestricted free agents, which is not encouraging. Peters's strategy has come under scrutiny, especially considering the team’s lack of depth and performance issues across various position groups.

The Commanders' injuries have compounded these problems, leaving the roster even thinner than anticipated. The depth chart reveals few areas of confidence, with the offensive line showing only slight improvement and other positions, like wide receiver and tight end, in desperate need of upgrades.

Additionally, s Rag highlights that the team’s running back situation is particularly concerning, with only Chris Rodriguez Jr. showing promise after a mid-season rise. Peters is also contemplating potential moves in free agency, particularly eyeing young talent like New York Jets running back Breece Hall, who could command around $48 million on the market.

This investment would be critical, as the Commanders need a dynamic threat in their backfield to complement quarterback Jayden Daniels. The article emphasizes that while Peters gambled on veteran players this season, the strategy backfired, necessitating a shift in approach.

With many of the current roster players nearing the end of their careers, including key figures like Deebo Samuel Sr. and Zach Ertz, Peters faces tough decisions about whether to retain aging veterans or pursue younger options.

Furthermore, the performance of the defense has been underwhelming, with a need for upgrades at every level, particularly on the edge. The meltdown of players like Daron Payne during a recent loss signals deeper issues within the squad.

As Peters navigates this challenging landscape, the Commanders are left at a crossroads where the decisions made in the upcoming offseason could either propel the team forward or further entrench them in mediocrity.

The overall assessment is clear: Peters must deliver results in a season marred by underperformance and injuries, or risk facing serious scrutiny in the future.