Commanders' offseason verdict raises a troubling question about Adam Peters plan

Washington made offseason roster changes aimed at getting younger, faster, and more aggressive, especially on defense. The team improved through addition by subtraction by cutting cornerback Marshon Lattimore and choosing not to re-sign linebacker Bobby Wagner or edge rusher Von Miller. Sonny Styles was brought in to lead the defense into a new era. Edge rusher Odafe Oweh was added, along with several smaller signings across offense and defense. Some evaluations gave Washington a B- grade, citing gambles on players such as Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Rachaad White. Others argue the moves were designed to fit Daronte Jones’ scheme, but performance on the field remains the key test.

"Washington desperately needed to get younger, faster, and hungrier, particularly on defense. This was accomplished with addition by subtraction, cutting cornerback Marshon Lattimore and choosing not to re-sign linebacker Bobby Wagner or edge rusher Von Miller. In the meantime, Sonny Styles is here to lead Washington's defense into the next generation. Peters also brought out the Brinks truck for edge rusher Odafe Oweh and made several smaller signings on both sides of the ball."

"Cody Williams of FanSided gave every NFL team an offseason grade for their draft and free agency transactions. Here is what he had to say about Washington, who received a B-. "On one hand, it was abundantly clear that the Washington Commanders needed to shake up the defense after a pretty dismal performance on that side of the ball a year ago. Sonny Styles and several other additions will help in that regard. However, Washington also took a lot of gambles on guys like Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson and Rachaad White who simply might not be needle movers. The Commanders look like a better roster, but there's a long way to go after what happened in 2025.""

"It feels like this is underselling Washington's moves a bit. They were made not to chase after the big names, but to find players who fit the goals of Daronte Jones' new scheme. Nick Cross, Leo Chenal, and K'Lavon Chaisson were all under-the-radar quality signings who should give the Commanders more than their money's worth. Still, it is fair to be skeptical until we see Peters' plan pay dividends on the field."

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