In the fast-moving world of the NFL, second-year general manager Adam Peters continues to show why he’s one of the most astute minds in the business. His latest stroke of genius came during the 2025 draft, as he pulled off what looks like a masterclass move with the Washington Commanders’ second-round pick. While many expected him to take a cornerback early, Peters was able to land a high-value prospect in Trey Amos at No. 61 overall—an absolute steal given Washington’s needs.
The Commanders had been in search of a physical boundary cornerback to help fortify their defense, particularly with the rise of offensive talent around the NFC East. Amos, the former Ole Miss standout, was someone they had considered selecting with the No. 29 pick, but the value at No. 61 was too great to pass up. And in light of recent developments, this pick now looks even more brilliant.
News broke that the Dallas Cowboys had made a significant move to bolster their offense by trading for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cowboys traded a third-round pick and other draft assets to acquire the volatile but immensely talented playmaker. Pickens, entering the final year of his rookie contract, gives the Cowboys another weapon opposite CeeDee Lamb, potentially making their offense even more dynamic.
While the trade is a bold move for Dallas, it creates a new challenge for the Washington Commanders. The NFC East has become an arms race of sorts, with teams like the Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles loading up on offensive weapons. But it’s clear that the Commanders are more than prepared to meet these challenges head-on, thanks in large part to Peters’ meticulous planning and aggressive moves in recent months.
The key to Washington’s counter to the Pickens addition lies in their cornerback depth. Amos, who could very well become a key piece for the Commanders shortly, joins veteran Marshon Lattimore to form an experienced and physically imposing outside cornerback tandem. Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowler, has been a consistent force in the NFL and, with a full offseason under his belt, he should be primed for another strong campaign in 2025.
Additionally, Mike Sainristil is expected to move back into the slot, where his exceptional skills have already proven to be a valuable asset for Washington. Sainristil’s quickness and ability to cover inside receivers will allow the team to focus their best cornerbacks on the outside, where they’ll be needed most against the likes of Lamb and Pickens.
Washington’s secondary is deeper than just those three players. Jonathan Jones and Noah Igbinoghene add even more depth and versatility to the unit, both offering strong coverage ability and experience in various roles. This abundance of talent in the secondary puts the Commanders in an enviable position to not only keep up with their NFC East rivals but potentially come out on top in matchups that include explosive wide receivers like Pickens.
The addition of Pickens to the Cowboys’ offense is undoubtedly a significant one. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability can change a game on any given Sunday. But for all of his raw talent, Pickens is also a player prone to volatility. His maturity and consistency have been questioned during his time in Pittsburgh, and it’s uncertain whether he will flourish in a high-pressure environment in Dallas.
That uncertainty is exactly what makes the Pickens move a high-risk, high-reward gamble for Dallas. The Cowboys are betting that his explosive talent will outweigh his erratic tendencies, but there’s always the chance that his behavior and inconsistency could derail their plans. In any case, it’s clear that the Cowboys are trying to go all-in to compete with Washington and Philadelphia in what promises to be a highly competitive NFC East in 2025.
For the Commanders, it’s not just about stopping Pickens, though. It’s about being prepared for all eventualities. Peters’ decision to focus on building a deep, talented cornerback group gives Washington the flexibility to counter any offensive strategy thrown their way. Whether it’s Pickens, Lamb, or anyone else in the division, the Commanders are in a position to defend at a high level against whatever the competition brings.
Washington’s offseason moves are a testament to the foresight of their front office. While the Cowboys and Eagles have made some notable moves, it’s Peters’ strategic planning and the acquisition of players like Amos that put the Commanders in prime position to challenge for the top of the NFC East. As the NFC East arms race continues to evolve, Washington’s defense is now one of the most well-equipped units in the division.
Looking at the big picture, it’s clear that Peters isn’t just reacting to moves made by other teams—he’s anticipating them. By addressing his team’s cornerback situation early in the draft and locking down key players in the secondary, he’s setting the stage for long-term success. It’s a perfect example of why Peters is regarded as one of the sharpest general managers in the NFL today.
In the ever-evolving NFC East, the addition of Pickens to Dallas will no doubt have a significant impact on the division’s landscape. But it’s the Commanders’ ability to stay two steps ahead and adapt quickly to these changes that will make them a formidable force moving forward. Thanks to Peters’ foresight, Washington is more than prepared to take on their bitter rivals and prove that they’re the team to beat in the NFC East.