5 Commanders newcomers who could set the NFL on fire in 2025

Adam Peters did another fantastic job of improving the Washington Commanders' roster this offseason. There was an obvious shift in approach after head coach Dan Quinn's squad made the NFC Championship game in Year 1. That was the right call, especially considering the loftier expectations on their shoulders next time around.

The Commanders are not a dark horse hopeful languishing in mediocrity or worse these days. They are being taken seriously both on and off the field. That brings a different set of challenges, but confidence is high that Washington's fairytale run can turn into something more substantial in the coming years.

Those who gave so much to the cause will be tasked with improving or maintaining their production levels. But if the Commanders want to go one better and dethrone the Philadelphia Eagles, their new acquisitions must hit the ground running.

With this in mind, here are five Commanders newcomers who could set the league on fire in 2025. We'll start with the most high-profile acquisition above all else.

Commanders newcomers who could set the NFL on fire in 2025

Laremy Tunsil - Commanders OT

While other teams around the league were scrambling to lure free agents when the legal tampering window opened, Adam Peters had a different strategy. The Washington Commanders were finalizing another bombshell trade to solidify the blindside of franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Laremy Tunsil was the target. The Commanders paid a premium to get the five-time Pro Bowl left tackle into the fold from the Houston Texans. But to get the best, you have to pay accordingly.

Tunsil instantly becomes the best blindside enforcer Washington's had since Trent Williams was traded to the San Francisco 49ers. He remains one of the league's most accomplished pass protectors. His flawless technique and elite-level athleticism showed no signs of slowing down last season. The former first-round pick is also a stout force on running plays to further enhance his influence.

There were too many penalties conceded, but he should work that out with better options alongside him. Keeping Daniels clean in the pocket was the biggest objective facing Peters this offseason. Adding someone with Tunsil's credentials represents another significant statement of intent that sent shockwaves through the league.

The Commanders will be expecting an immediate return on their hefty investment where Tunsil is concerned. Based on his sensational consistency almost from the moment he entered the NFL, he should be able to meet this target with minimal fuss when the 2025 campaign arrives.

Trey Amos - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders were widely expected to trade down for more picks early in the 2025 NFL Draft. Adam Peters considered the possibility, but he also wasn't going to ignore his board if prospects of interest fell into his lap.

That proved to be the case over the first two rounds. The Commanders selected offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. at No. 29 overall. They also considered cornerback Trey Amos in the first round. Therefore, it was a no-brainer to pick him up when he somehow made it down to No. 61.

This dramatic slide centered on a back issue that popped up during his pre-draft medical assessments. This was enough for other teams to look in different directions, but the Commanders were comfortable enough to take the plunge.

Amos doesn't believe it's going to impact his career. Dan Quinn agreed, so the Commanders' big gamble might bring significant rewards if this reported health issue doesn't turn into something more concerning.

There is a chance for Amos to establish himself immediaqtely. His physical presence on the boundary, together with his prowess in press-man coverage situations, are exactly what the Commanders need to get over the hump. Rookie cornerbacks tend to go through some growing pains, but there is plenty to like about the Ole Miss product's chances in Year 1.

Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR

The Commanders had to get more aggressive this offseason. Adam Peters recognized the need to go bolder with Washington's window for a Super Bowl opening much sooner than originally projected. This all started with a blockbuster trade for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr.

Samuel's time with the San Francisco 49ers had run its course. Both parties agreed that a fresh start would be the best possible solution. Most thought he'd be released, but general manager Adam Peters, who knows the player extremely well, got ahead of the queue.

Considering this acquisition cost nothing more than a fifth-round selection, it represents a low-risk, high-reward pickup. Samuel's proven production needs no introduction. He's an electrifying player after the catch, which is matched by high-end physicality and relentless demeanor that should fit seamlessly into Washington's locker room culture shift.

The former second-round pick out of South Carolina also has some added incentives within his contract to aim for. Samuel is playing out the final year of his deal, and the Commanders will be happy to reward the wideout accordingly if he firmly establishes himself.

Samuel and Terry McLaurin have the makings of a potentially prolific wide receiver tandem. Keeping him healthy throughout the campaign is crucial. If the Commanders can do that, it's all systems go.

Jaylin Lane - Commanders WR

It's not just Deebo Samuel Sr. who could thrive among the new wide receivers in 2025. Things might take a little longer for Jaylin Lane, but there's a growing belief that the Washington Commanders might have a monumental steal on their hands when push comes to shove.

The Commanders saw something in Lane that others didn't. They felt taking him at No. 128 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft represented tremendous value early on Day 3. Looking at the skill set he brings to the table, there is a lot to like about his scheme fit within Kliff Kingsbury's expansive concepts.

Lane thrives with the football in his hands. He's a dynamic threat after the catch with the elusiveness to make people miss in tight windows. This is matched by some explosive top-end speed capable of stretching the field when the situation dictates.

The Virginia Tech graduate is eager to impose himself immediately. Finding a role in the wide receiver rotation will be difficult, but not impossible. However, Lane's prowess as a kick returner comes with Day 1 upside for the Commanders if everything goes according to plan this summer.

Building confidence throughout Washington's preparations is key. If Lane achieves this goal, he could be a surprise that other teams don't see coming.

Javon Kinlaw - Commanders DT

Much was made about the money given to Javon Kinlaw this offseason. Most analysts thought the physically imposing defensive lineman would get a one-year, prove-it deal somewhere after an underwhelming campaign with the New York Jets. The Commanders had other ideas.

Kinlaw signed a three-year, $45 million deal that included a $16.5 million signing bonus and $30 million guaranteed. That's a major commitment from general manager Adam Peters, who was part of the San Francisco 49ers front office that drafted the former South Carolina standout at No. 14 overall in 2020.

This was perceived as a massive overpay by almost everybody. Peters knows the player well, and he's earned plenty of trust from fans after transforming the team's fortunes quicker than expected. It's a lofty price tag, which comes with increased expectations. Still, confidence is high in the building that Kinlaw can meet these goals.

The interior force is a bid body capable of clogging up space against the run. Kinlaw's athletic attributes complement what Daron Payne and Johnny Newton bring to the table. He's got some big shoes to fill after Jonathan Allen's release, but the player is highly motivated to silence his doubters and finally fullfil his promise.

If he can provide an upgrade, it'll help Washington's defensive front considerably.

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