Commanders’ draft fallout sparks harsh warning from NFL analyst

The Washington Commanders are in win-now mode after a 2024 campaign that will be remembered throughout the annals of franchise history. Keeping this up to ensure they become a perennial powerhouse is the next, and far more difficult, challenge to accomplish.

One NFL analyst believes the Commanders could come crashing back down to earth in 2025. Kristopher Knox from The Bleacher Report projected regression for Washington next season. His reasoning centered on the team's significant overachievement last time around and the tricky conundrums facing Adam Peters throughout the recruitment period.

A slight regression may be inevitable for the Commanders, who largely overachieved with a patchwork roster comprised of older veterans and short-term deals. The process of getting younger and finding stability began this offseason, and there could be growing pains.Kristopher Knox

This is a little disrespectful. The Commanders should be among the leading Super Bowl challengers again. They've found a nice mix of youth and experience. They also have a superstar quarterback in Jayden Daniels leading them on the correct path.

Commanders have done enough to be highly competitive once again in 2025

It's all down to complacency. Nobody in the building should be thinking about what they attained last season. The slate has been wiped clean. After all, this is a year-to-year league.

The Commanders have a shot. Achieving 12 wins again will be difficult, but not impossible by any stretch of the imagination. The schedule is tougher, and Washington won a lot of close games by the thinnest of margins in 2024. That might not happen again.

However, this roster is stronger almost across the board. Peters solidified the offensive tackle spots with Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. The skill positions received the required upgrades. Washington's defense looks a little better, but a couple more additions — preferably at edge rusher and safety — are only going to help their cause.

Optimism and expectations are higher than they've been in decades, where the Commanders are concerned. That's a far cry from the understated hope surrounding the new regime this time last year, so delivering is crucial.

There's nothing to suggest the Commanders aren't capable of another memorable campaign. Getting off to a strong start is key, but hopes are high that last season's exceptional run to the NFC Championship game can become something more sustainable.

Peters pushed his chips into the middle this offseason. If the new signings and draft picks all hit the ground running and those around previously reach the heights anticipated, the Commanders won't be too far away.

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