Adam Peters heads into the 2025 NFL Draft relatively devoid of valuable assets. That wasn't the case a few months ago, but trades for cornerback Marshon Lattimore, wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., and left tackle Laremy Tunsil moved the goalposts significantly.
The Washington Commanders are in win-now mode, so acquiring proven veterans with Pro Bowl-caliber production was a good way to enhance their Super Bowl chances. Peters wanted to build through the draft upon taking the job. That's still the case, even if the strategy had to pivot following the team's sensational run to the NFC Championship game.
Washington doesn't pick until No. 29 overall. They have the No. 61 selection but are without third and fifth-round picks as things stand. Peters would like to get this number up by trading back, but that will depend on whether any willing suitors come forward.
One thing's for sure: the Commanders cannot be caught napping in their quest to surround Daniels with everything needed to thrive.
Expected Day 2 run on wide receiver is something the Commanderfs should monitor
Most analysts expect the Commanders to add another wide receiver during the draft. They have a decent room, but another prolific performer capable of making an instant impression wouldn't hurt. That might be more difficult than expected after a major revelation from Adam Schefter of ESPN.
The respected insider believes there will be a major run on wide receivers on Day 2. There's a notable drop-off in talent after that, so this will provide Peters with more urgency to avoid missing out entirely.
Thursday night of the draft always is the headliner. But Friday night gives teams just as much of a chance to upgrade their roster. One of the strengths of the 2025 class is the wide receiver talent available on Day 2, where Mel Kiper Jr. and Field Yates had nine wideouts being selected in their most recent mock draft. Last year, there was a run on second-day receivers that included Keon Coleman going No. 33 to Buffalo and Ladd McConkey going No. 34 to the Chargers. There is expected to be another Day 2 receiver run this year.Adam Schefter
It wouldn't be a complete disaster if the Commanders didn't draft a wideout on Day 2. They have Samuel, Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, Noah Brown, and K.J. Osborn right now. There remain some intriguing options on the veteran free-agent market, but that's a last resort.
Finding a long-term piece via the draft represents the best (and most cost-effective) possibility. Trading down could get another Day 2 pick, but there's just no telling for sure. Needs such as edge rusher, cornerback, and running back also factor into the equation, which all add to the fascination regarding Peters' draft approach.
Peters has a plan in place for every scenario that might come his way. Adding a wide receiver might not even be this high on his agenda, so it's all about playing the board effectively and ensuring the Commanders find the right talent with the character needed to slot into the new culture seamlessly.
Regardless of which positions they play, that's the most important thing above all else.
