NFL analyst identifies potential difference-maker for Commanders in 2025

Dan Quinn and his Washington Commanders are focused on getting to the finish line to make the postseason. For Adam Peters and his staff behind the scenes, their thoughts are further away.

Peters is preparing for his second offseason as coach. The general manager emerged from his inaugural efforts with tremendous credit, gutting a roster devoid of talent and molding it into a much more competitive team under Quinn’s experienced coaching staff.

The Commanders are way ahead of schedule whether they make the playoffs or not. Revelations ahead of the 2024 trade deadline suggest Washington is also becoming a hotbed for impending free agents thanks to the improved culture without Dan Snyder holding absolute power.

While Peters will be methodical in his approach and always keep the long-term vision in mind, the Commanders’ move to stud cornerback Marshon Lattimore highlights his willingness to be aggressive when the situation calls for it. Expect this measured approach to continue in the upcoming recruiting phase.

The options are currently plentiful. They will decrease with franchise tags and extensions, but it would be a surprise if Peters didn’t have a large list of veterans who could hit the free agent market and be acquired. The Commanders also have nearly $100 million at their disposal with 31 players under contract.

This was a topic discussed by The Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder. He said the commanders shouldn’t be complacent. This includes upgrading incumbent safety Jeremy Chinn with All-Pro Budda Baker if the Arizona Cardinals let him test the market.

“Washington could use some safety help as this is one of the team’s current weaknesses, and Jeremy Chinn, the defense’s best player at the position, is an impending free agent. Part of what makes Chinn so valuable is that he wears multiple hats and lines up.” The 28-year-old, who turns 29, can do all that too, playing defenseman and covering the slot he had in January earned Pro Football Focus coverage and defensive prowess in the mid-1970s while running all over the field.”

– Matt Holder, The Bleacher Report

There is no doubt about Baker’s credentials. He is a leader, organizes the defense exceptionally well and has the innate ability to consistently accompany the football in all phases. That would be tough on Chinn, but Peters won’t hesitate to go in a different direction if he feels it can benefit the team.

Baker is unlikely to be cheap. What Peters needs to find out is whether a greater financial commitment than Chinn would require will result in a significant increase in performance levels.

Commanders also have other needs to meet. At this point, Peters will have good terrain. Chinn did well enough to get a new deal and he’s a good fit for Washington. But there is no doubt that Baker is one of the most dominant players in the league at the position.

It will be interesting to see how things develop. But fans should have complete confidence that the right decisions will be made thanks to Peters’ sensational start as general manager.

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