Breakout star lighting up Commanders training camp with game-changing rise

The Washington Commanders are relying heavily on experience once again in 2025. But if the team wants to ensure their fleeting success becomes the start of long-term dominance, their young guns must step up accordingly.

It's early days, but the signs are enormously encouraging where general manager Adam Peters' second draft class is concerned. And one possible breakout star has already begun his game-changing rise at training camp.

The Commanders thought wide receiver Jaylin Lane would go a lot higher than No. 128 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. They were thrilled that he didn't, which provides another fascinating skill set for second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels to depend upon.

Jaylin Lane is forcing his way into the Commanders' offensive plans quickly

Lane's athletic attributes were arguably not put to the best use at Virginia Tech. Waiting so long to hear his name called stung, but the wideout has landed in the right situation.

Zach Selby from the team's website was among those suitably impressed with Lane's contribution so far. He also noted that offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is starting to involve him more within his schematic concepts, which is an important (and positive) step in the player's early development.

Although his primary responsibility will be as a punt returner, [Jaylin] Lane has started to show he can handle a bigger role in Washington's offense. One of Lane's best moments came during Friday's practice when he got behind the defense's coverage for what would have been a touchdown in a game scenario. Lane also had the catch of training camp so far during a red zone situational drill. Lane was known for his route running and quickness at Virginia Tech but never got the chance to maximize those traits with the Hokies. The Commanders are hoping they can get more out of him with Daniels as his quarterback.Zach Selby, Commanders.com

As Selby stated, Lane will carve out a Week 1 role for himself in the return game. However, there's nothing to suggest he cannot make his presence felt on the offensive rotation if the same positive performance levels continue.

With second-team All-Pro wideout Terry McLaurin still not practicing as his contract standoff with the Commanders gets increasingly ugly, it's giving others a chance to flourish. Lane is taking full advantage, so it'll be interesting to see where the rookie fits into Kingsbury's strategy from week to week when competitive action begins.

The Commanders might take things slowly with Lane initially. At the same time, his dynamism and electrifying capabilities with the football in his hands are difficult to ignore.

And if Lane dazzles in the preseason, the Commanders would be wise to throw him into the breach right out of the gate.

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