It’s been a dramatic offseason for the Washington Commanders and more is on the way when the 2024 NFL Draft begins. Adam Peters and Dan Quinn wasted no time in making significant changes to the roster thanks to the wealth of assets available. Tough decisions were made, but it’s clear the new regime didn’t think too much about Ron Rivera’s team, which was looking at how many veterans had not been brought back or had become surplus to requirements in advance.
Add to that the improved professionalism and collaboration within the building, and it’s not hard to see why optimism is growing among fans. Going through the 2024 NFL Draft with immediate contributors and improved depth will only inspire more confidence.
Of course, the Commanders have to put it all together in a competitive environment after emerging as one of the league’s worst operations in 2023. Something that was reflected in Amelia’s pre-draft power rankings Probst of Pro Football Focus, who has Washington at No. 29 despite an impressive recruiting period thus far.
“The Commanders have done well this offseason, adding linebackers Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu, tight end Zach Ertz and running back Austin Ekeler. Their 25th-ranked defense lost cornerback Kendall Fuller and is ahead of Montez Sweat and Chase Young.”
This represents a reality check of sorts. Although progress will be almost guaranteed if the Commanders find the right quarterback at No. 2 overall, expecting miracles immediately is both foolish and unfair. Peters has a plan in place for sustainable growth, so there needs to be a level of trust attached to the process despite this fan base being deprived of legitimate accomplishments throughout former owner Dan Snyder’s tenure.
Rome was not built in a day. At the same time, it’s also possible that things could improve much sooner than expected if Peters maximizes all of the resources at his disposal during the draft.