(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

Commanders Rookie Putting On Show for Kingsbury at OTAs

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nathan Karseno | Last updated May 31, 2025 10:38 AM ET

The Washington Commanders may have just found a diamond in the rough.

With their fourth-round pick at No. 128 overall, the Commanders chose the electrifying Virginia Tech wide receiver Jaylin Lane, who could turn out to be one of the most impactful rookies from the Draft.

Many expect him to be a kick returner before he gets many chances with the offense, but that role is something he is attacking with full force.

"I'm just here to dominate my role. That's gonna be part of my game," Lane said via the team website.

"Being a rookie coming in, I gotta play special teams regardless. So, I'm excited for that. Just being back there, I feel like I can make any play, any catch and ultimately, take it to the crib.

"That's what you want to do as a returner. Speed is one of my assets. I plan on using it every chance I get."

Even more exciting for the Commanders fans already drooling at the mouth is the reports of Lane's performance at OTAs this week.

Washington insider Rick Snider was thoroughly impressed with what Lane showed as a receiver, calling the prospect a "sleeper" to crack the offensive rotation.

Commanders fourth-round receiver Jaylin Lane was impressive today. Has 4.34 speed and showed it in OTA. Made two nice catches. He could be a sleeper.
— Rick Snider's Washington (@Snide_Remarks) May 29, 2025

Lane might not have been brought in because there was a major need for an offensive playmaker, but if he can be another weapon for star quarterback Jayden Daniels, that's a nice bonus. It could turn the Commanders into one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NFL ... if they aren't already after last season's fireworks.

The rookie Lane's first pro practices may be leaving Kingsbury no choice but to find him touches in that scheme.

However, there are now two proven veterans in Daniels' arsenal, too. Joining Terry McLaurin in the receiving corps is Deebo Samuel Sr., acquired this offseason in a trade with the San Francisco 49ers.

They each will be great assets for Lane's growth as the rookie can learn from two versatile athletes who have already thrived in high-octane offenses.

As McLaurin and Samuel are the focal points of the passing game, Lane could find lanes open up for him, and if he "takes them to the crib", it will lead to more and more targets.

This creates for a crowded offensive situation, but Lane reiterated that he will fit whatever role he is called into.

We believe that will be an impactful one with how Washington is already finding new ways to utilize him in kick returns and in the slot on offense.

Says Lane: "I'm just very confident. And I feel like I'm gonna be able to help score some touchdowns for the Commanders."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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