Major concern already building over Commanders' Day 2 draft picks

As the Washington Commanders enter the 2025 season, one of the more intriguing developments will be seeing which of last year's rookies can progress in Year 2.

All of the attention is on Jayden Daniels. He's already solidified himself as Washington's long-term answer at quarterback, but it's all about taking that next step forward into the elite tier of signal-callers around the league.

Cornerback Mike Sainristil also had a standout rookie campaign that he'll look to build upon. Some of Washington's other early-round 2024 draft picks left much m ore to be desired in their debut seasons, and they haven't exactly done much to change the narrative throughout the preseason thus far.

Commanders need to see more from Ben Sinnott and Luke McCaffrey

Tight end Ben Sinnott and wide receiver Luke McCaffrey were drafted by the Commanders at No. 53 and No. 100 overall, respectively, in the 2024 NFL Draft. Both struggled to get on the field as rookies, but the opportunity is there for them to step up into bigger roles in 2025.

Sinnott remains behind Zach Ertz on Washington's depth chart, but the veteran has not suited up in either of the Commanders' preseason contests. That allowed the Kansas State product to get some run, but through two games, he's caught two passes for 10 receiving yards. He was held without a catch in the Commanders' loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

McCaffrey, along with Washington's other depth receivers, has had a prime chance to show what he's worth all offseason due to the controversial absence of two-time Pro Bowler Terry McLaurin. Though he showed flashes in camp, he has struggled to make an impact across the Commanders' two preseason outings, where he has caught one pass for minus-one receiving yards.

The former Rice standout wasn't even targeted against the Bengals. Fourth-round rookie Jaylin Lane was visible with three catches on six targets for 42 receiving yards. Undrafted free agents Tay Martin and Ja'Corey Brooks both hauled in at least one pass. Yet two of Washington's second-year Day 2 picks still haven't been able to get involved.

It's not promising for their long-term development. Patience is still key, especially for McCaffrey, who only transitioned to wide receiver during his final year of college after playing quarterback before that. But the Commanders can't afford to wait forever for them to figure it out.

If McCaffrey and Sinnott don't start to turn things around, they will find themselves on the chopping block sooner rather than later.

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