Riggo's Rag

● By Dean Jones
The Washington Commanders lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the playoff race. Although disappointing, reaching the NFC Championship game in Year 1 under head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters represents a sensational accomplishment. Washington is a football hotbed once again. The team is gaining national headlines for all the right reasons, and the future is incredibly bright. Peters also has the resources needed to build in the coming months before the 2025 campaign arrives. Big changes are coming. The Commanders got much more than they bargained for with this group — a testament to the mentality and locker room culture installed by Quinn. But the price of progress means Peters shouldn't settle. There is a need to improve almost every position group. They must maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract before he becomes extension-eligible. Some have done their chances of an extended stay a tremendous amount of good. Unfortunately for others, they won't come along for the ride. Peters has $90.95 million to spend in free agency, which could increase once extensions, restructures, and early releases become public knowledge. The respected front-office leader also has seven draft selections to find immediate difference-makers and improve depth.