Adam Peters got some exceptional returns from his first draft class as Washington Commanders' general manager. But there is one invisible pick who's quietly entering a make-or-break season in 2025.
The Commanders found a franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels. They acquired two defensive difference-makers, some intriguing development projects, and a tight end with the physical tools to become a long-term option with further refinement. The fact that so many made a big contribution as Washington went on its sensational run to the NFC Championship game is only going to serve them well moving forward.
That wasn't the case with Dominique Hampton. The No. 161 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft came into the Commanders after helping the Washington Huskies reach the college football national championship game. He plied his trade at the safety spot in college, but the coaching staff had something else in mind.
Dominique Hampton cannot remain on the Commanders' fringes entering Year 2
Hampton switched to a linebacker role. He made the roster but was seldom seen on game days. The Commanders redshirted his rookie campaign, which was understandable with the ever-increasing stakes as Dan Quinn's squad took the league by storm.
Peters wasn't going to stand still this offseason. Hampton got the chance to continue his growth on the 53-man roster, but he's got to prove himself all over again this time around. And with the Commanders expecting big things from Jordan Magee and rookie Kain Medrano, his status is extremely precarious.
Whether Hampton slots in remains debatable. The linebacking corps is crowded, especially if Nick Bellore goes through as a special-teams ace after getting a new two-year deal. There could be an opening at the safety position, but the Commanders also have Tyler Owens, Percy Butler, and Jeremy Reaves occupying the backup roles currently.
Hampton is something of a tweener. He'll need to make considerable strides over the summer to secure his place on the roster. Competition for places is fierce, and the second-year pro is in danger of getting left behind.
The urgency around Hampton's progress is glaring. Washington's coaching staff will give him a fighting chance to stake a bigger claim, and he's got the physical profile to fit well into Dan Quinn's schematic concepts. Even so, he cannot continue to be in the shadows while players such as Magee thrive with extra responsibilities on their shoulders.
What comes next is down to Hampton. But make no mistake, his concerning career trajectory in Washington demands some positive resolve.
It's time for Hampton to formally announce himself. Nothing else will suffice.
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