Commanders handed timely spark as UDFA returns to crash roster party

The Washington Commanders were dealt a blow when interior offensive lineman Nate Herbig decided to retire. This was out of the blue, forcing second-year general manager Adam Peters to pivot quickly with the signing of free-agent Lucas Niang.

While the former third-round pick is seen as a tackle, it's another body on the offensive line to bolster depth. And the Commanders got another piece of good news when undrafted free agent Timothy McKay came off the active/non-football injury list before Thursday's practice at training camp.

Head coach Dan Quinn revealed to the media that McKay will begin to ramp up his on-field work. The former North Carolina State standout was expected to be drafted before a torn bicep ruined his dream. Washington's power brokers saw something in the player, and they gave him $250,000 guaranteed on his rookie deal to seal the deal.

Timothy McKay's return is impeccably timed for Commanders' roster push

This return is impeccably timed from the player. Herbig's retirement creates an opening for someone else. He was expected to occupy a backup/rotational role. With questions around players like Michael Deiter, Chris Paul, and Julian Good-Jones, there's no doubt McKay will rightfully fancy his chances of staking a strong claim.

The Commanders will take every possible precaution with McKay to reduce the risk of further issues. This will be a gradual process, which should involve individual work first before integrating with his teammates. If everything checks out and the player is feeling good, giving him some preseason reps is the next step.

That's where McKay can stand out.

He relishes competition and became a crushing force on running plays in college. McKay boasts a good enough anchor to cope with speed or power pass-rushers. There are footwork deficiencies that need refinement, and improving consistency will also serve him well. But he's got all the athletic attributes needed to make things uncomfortable for others.

McKay has some lost time to make up, which only increases the urgency. It'll be a step-by-step process after so long away from the gridiron, so don't be surprised if the unheralded lineman makes a name for himself quicker than expected.

If Deiter, Paul, Good-Jones, and others thought their roster hopes increased with Herbig's decision to walk away from the game entirely, they might be mistaken. McKay won't be settling for a secondary role. He's come to make a difference immediately, which represents another fascinating dynamic to monitor before final cuts arrive.

Get your popcorn ready.

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