Washington Commanders wide receiver Luke McCaffrey Luke Hales/GettyImages

Dan Quinn just proved Commanders fans were right about Luke McCaffrey

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated Oct 7, 2025 12:00 PM ET

Not having some prominent pass catchers available could have dented the Washington Commanders' chances in recent weeks. However, they've managed to do just fine without the likes of wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown to depend on.

There is a big reason why. One could point to Washington's league-leading rushing attack or the schematic adjustments made by offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury as essential factors. Even so, the rapid emergence of second-year pro Luke McCaffrey has arguably been the most significant positive of all.

When the Commanders needed him most, McCaffrey stepped up. He scored touchdowns against the Las Vegas Raiders and Atlanta Falcons. When returning quarterback Jayden Daniels needed a big play downfield versus the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 5, he went to his 2024 draft classmate.

And he delivered.

Dan Quinn credits Luke McCaffrey's competitiveness for Commanders breakout

McCaffrey's gone from an afterthought to a potential long-term piece of the puzzle. The Commanders had no other choice, but the response given by the wideout told them everything they needed to know about his future outlook. Even when McLaurin and Brown return, the former Rice standout should have a role to play after gaining the trust of coaches and teammates alike.

LUUUUUUKE

#WASvsLAC FOX pic.twitter.com/xAXsECH9kB
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) October 5, 2025

Dan Quinn lifted the lid on how the light has come on for McCaffrey this season. The head coach acknowledged the improvements as a route runner, but he's been far more impressed by his competitive fire, which is standing out above the rest.

I felt the experience of the route running and all the technique that goes with that first. Coming in from him with his background at quarterback, almost seeing too much, but then he really got into the details at receiver, at the technique, at the specific routes. But there's one thing that separates him. I think that he has -- and he can feel it -- is this competitive spirit.Dan Quinn via Commanders.com

This is high praise indeed.

Not many gave McCaffrey a shot at firmly establishing himself this season after the Commanders traded for Deebo Samuel Sr. and drafted Jaylin Lane. Instead of sulking, he kept working, staying ready for his chance when it eventually arrived. That perhaps came quicker than expected, but the No. 100 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft seized the moment in no uncertain terms.

McCaffrey is already close to breaking his receiving yards mark from last season, and we're only five games in. He's separating well, making contested catches look routine, and showcasing some sound elusiveness after the catch. He is also among the league's most prolific kick returners, which is an added positive in what's quickly becoming a breakout campaign.

The Commanders have to keep riding the hot hand. McCaffrey's proving his worth, and this exceptional surge should be rewarded accordingly. If that means upsetting someone like Brown, who's talented but injury-prone, so be it.

This article first appeared on Riggo's Rag and was syndicated with permission.

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