Adam Peters delivers blunt warning after Commanders preseason meltdown

Not many players emerged from the Washington Commanders' first preseason game with credit. And general manager Adam Peters sent a blunt warning about the standards expected in its immediate aftermath.

The front-office leader gained a fierce reputation for being a ruthless roster builder upon taking the job. Peters leaves sentiment completely out of the equation, even when it comes to franchise cornerstones like wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The team is all that matters, and the results speak for themselves so far.

Peters wasted no time in laying down the gauntlet to those on the fringes after watching the Commanders get embarrassed in their preseason curtain raiser. Washington hosted no fewer than 14 players for tryouts after Sunday's training camp practice. They signed two.

Adam Peters sends stark warning to Commanders players with two new signings after preseason loss

Veteran linebacker Duke Riley impressed those enough to get a shot. The former third-round pick has 283 tackles throughout his eight-year career spanning three different teams. He was used sparingly on the defensive rotation by the Miami Dolphins last season, but his special-teams capabilities make him a lively outsider to make the squad.

Washington also signed cornerback Essang Bassey to a deal. He's a former second-team All-ACC selection at Wake Forest. The defensive back didn't play competitively last season, but the Commanders feel like some untapped potential remains. And this is the best possible environment to find out for sure.

Riley and Bassey might make the team. They might not. But one thing is clear above all else: the performance in Washington's first warmup game before the campaign is not going to be tolerated.

This is a statement to the depth linebackers and cornerbacks. The Commanders' special-teams ineptitude also played a big role in Peters bringing two new faces into the fold. It's a brutal reality check for those who thought their respective spots were safe, and it doesn't bode well for those whose futures were already hanging in the balance.

It's a cutthroat time of year around the league. This bears more significance for the Commanders, who are looking to cement their status as a perennial contender after achieving more than anyone thought possible in 2024. There is no room for passengers or those reveling in their newfound success. Peters is making sure of that.

This should be a wake-up call in no uncertain terms. Big responses are needed from everybody. Anything less comes with potentially detrimental ramifications attached, with only a fortnight remaining until final cuts are due.

And Peters won't hesitate to do what's required.

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