Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters readies for Thursday’s NFL Draft with a long-term path paved by short-term deals.
Peters has again used short free-agent deals for stopgap players to once more contend before giving way later to a youth movement. Peters is getting the best of both ends by winning while rebuilding.
Washington filled holes with offseason trades for Houston left tackle Laremy Tunsil and San Francisco receiver Deebo Samuel. Along with re-signing veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner and tight end Zach Ertz, Washington can choose those who help more in 2026 and 2027.
Peters’ view lets him draft the best player available rather than press up for players like predecessor Ron Rivera, who reached for linebacker Jamin Davis, receiver Jahan Dotson and cornerback Emmanuel Forbes in consecutive first rounds.