Commanders' draft pick set for pivotal audition that could rewrite his story

The Washington Commanders are reeling from some significant injury concerns right now. One of the most overlooked might be the most glaring aside from franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.

John Bates is an underrated yet integral part of the Commanders' offensive game plan. He doesn't get many targets, but he's arguably the league's best blocking tight end. Having this support greatly benefits the offensive line. It also means nobody is safe when the veteran gets a chance to make his presence felt at the second level.

Bates left the Thursday Night Football clash against the Green Bay Packers early with a groin injury. Things unraveled quickly after that, with rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. suffering more than most with no help alongside him on the edge.

Commanders injury crisis could thrust second-year TE Ben Sinnott into the spotlight

Dan Quinn revealed that Bates' participation in Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders was unlikely. The head coach didn't reveal the plan in his absence, but it would be a big shock if 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott didn't get what could be a pivotal audition at Northwest Stadium.

Sinnott came into the Commanders with real potential. Things haven't come together as yet, which is thanks in no small part to Bates and Zach Ertz forming a highly productive tandem. With the blocker now seemingly unavailable, this represents the perfect opportunity for the coaching staff to see what the second-year pro out of Kansas State can do.

The Commanders didn't increase Sinnott's reps at Lambeau Field. Perhaps they thought he wasn't ready to cope with Micah Parsons and Rashan Gary, who were both in relentless form. But with a full week to prepare to fill Bates' shoes, the scenario becomes more realistic.

If Sinnott gets the opportunity in a starting role, he must seize it. The player remains an unknown quantity despite the outstanding athletic attributes at his disposal. But with four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby coming to town, the margin for error couldn't be slimmer.

This has the scope to rewrite Sinnott's story, for good or bad.

If he gets additional reps and flourishes, that could lead to increased involvement with added confidence from fans and coaches alike. If he cannot meet even modest expectations, he's likely to spend his sophomore campaign on the fringes from here on. Perhaps it might even spell the end of his Washington career next year if things go completely off the rails.

The Commanders need to understand what they have in Sinnott at some point. Should the player's number get called, he must produce the goods.