Jayden Daniels gets a taste of what Commanders' electrifying rookie can do during latest OTA
The Washington Commanders made a few notable moves during the offseason, but there's one less-heralded decision that could play a bigger factor than expected by the time the 2025 season is all said done.Rookie wide receiver Jaylin Lane, the team's fourth-round pick, has made an early impression through the first bout of Commanders OTAs. The […]
The Washington Commanders made a few notable moves during the offseason, but there's one less-heralded decision that could play a bigger factor than expected by the time the 2025 season is all said done.
Rookie wide receiver Jaylin Lane, the team's fourth-round pick, has made an early impression through the first bout of Commanders OTAs. The Commanders intend for him to eventually take over punt return duties after a very successful college career in that area, but it's what he's done so far at receiver that's stood out the most.
"He can really roll. [He's a] fast, dynamic player," Kingsbury told reporters ahead of Wednesday's OTAs. "[He] had a great college career there and [he's] very hard working, very conscientious about his preparation and to really pick things up quick. We've kind of moved [him] around to try and challenge him inside, outside, and he's picked it all up. So I'm excited to see how he develops and does in training camp."
Lane's streak continued into Friday's session, where he caught a highlight-worthy touchdown pass. If you look closely at the 0:04 second mark, you can see star quarterback Jayden Daniels watching it all go down:
If Lane can develop into a receiving threat in Year 1, it'll be a big boost for the Commanders passing attack and the offense as a whole. The Top-2 options at receiver are obviously set with Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, but nothing is established after them. Noah Brown would be considered the leading candidate for the WR3 job in terms of target share, but he has to stay healthy in order for that to fully come to fruition.
Therefore, Lane can certainly find himself consistently contributing outside of special teams if he continues to make big plays throughout the summer. Especially when considering the Commanders are currently without a true slot option.
Brown is more of an X and while Samuel can play inside, he'll move around more than he'll stay in one spot. Luke McCaffrey would be considered the other "true" option, but he still has to take the necessary steps forward after a lukewarm rookie year (yes, pun intended).
The future for Lane is certainly bright and it'll be one of the main storylines to keep tabs on as we push toward the regular season.
