Commanders just made their stance on soaring rookie duo crystal clear

Fans can find out a lot about their team's roster plans during the final preseason game. That proved to be the case around two soaring Washington Commanders rookies who've taken the summer by storm.

Those who don't suit up for the contest are either going to start or occupy key rotational roles in 2025. Others who are used sparingly should also have parts to play. And players who are still on the field late in the fourth quarter could see their hopes of making the squad evaporate before the cut-down deadline.

Nobody expected to see the likes of Jayden Daniels, Bobby Wagner, or Marshon Lattimore in this one. They are core foundational pieces tasked with significant responsibilities. However, the team's decision to sit out wide receiver Jaylin Lane and running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt was extremely notable.

Commanders' preseason actions with Jaylin Lane and Jacory Croskey-Merritt were telling

Both Lane and Croskey-Merritt wasted no time in making their presence felt this summer. The Commanders thought they picked up a couple of steals with the fourth and seventh-round picks, and they've done nothing to diminish this notion throughout the offseason.

The fact that Lane and Croskey-Merritt were kept out of harm's way against the Baltimore Ravens spoke volumes. The running back is still dealing with a slight shoulder issue, but the Commanders have seen enough from the first-year pro to suggest that he can be a major asset after trading Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers.

Lane is also making waves in a crowded wide receiver room as others struggle to make an impression. His speed to go downfield and elusiveness with the football in his hands look tailor-made for offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts. And the former Virginia Tech standout has pushed his way above Luke McCaffrey, Michael Gallup, and K.J. Osborn on the depth chart, at least from the outside looking in.

It's hard to ignore the momentum building around Lane and Croskey-Merritt. They are young, hungry, and ready to silence their doubters. This mentality also saw them slot seamlessly into Washington's locker room culture, which took a substantial surge forward once head coach Dan Quinn came into the franchise.

Tempering expectations is becoming difficult. That's a testament to how well both Lane and Croskey-Merritt have acclimatized to the rigors of NFL life, so there's nothing to suggest that this cannot continue when things matter more.

It'll be fascinating to watch their development during the regular season. There's a chance it falls flat, but Lane and Croskey-Merritt are strong enough to maximize every chance that comes their way.

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