The Washington Commanders didn't get a much-needed victory over the Miami Dolphins before the bye week. But their international game in Madrid provided one unheralded rookie with the chance to live out his NFL dream.
Unfortunately, these increased aspirations took a seismic plunge almost immediately after.
There was a great deal of excitement when the Commanders signed undrafted wide receiver Jacoby Jones from the practice squad to their active roster before Week 11. He earned the right to stick around during the offseason, catching the eye in training camp and also making his opportunities count in the postseason. After getting extra time to hone his craft, Washington allowed him to flourish in a competitive setting.
Commanders release Jacoby Jones despite crucial catch against the Dolphins
Jones didn't look out of place, even though he was only allocated 16 percent of Washington's offensive snaps. He was targeted once, but it was in a crucial moment, resulting in a 25-yard gain. Unfortunately, sloppy individual errors from others became the Commanders' undoing.
First NFL game, a dream come true!
But the wildest part isn’t the game, the stage, or the moment.
It’s knowing that only God made this possible!
And the real joy isn’t from football at all…
It’s from experiencing Jesus in a way I never have before! Praise God! Matthew 6:33 🙏🏾 https://t.co/I7GN1MDpht
— Jacoby Jones (@Jmoneyjones19) November 17, 2025
Most fans thought this could be a solid platform from which to build for Jones. But it didn't take long for the Commanders to quash that notion. He was released from the team, which could hint that Noah Brown will be available to return after the bye.
Considering how aging veterans like Robbie Chosen and Chris Moore are struggling to make an impact, coupled with the Commanders' need to evaluate the entire roster amid a lost campaign, the decision was puzzling. There is a good chance Jones returns to the practice squad to continue his development, but there is just no telling for sure until confirmation arrives.
Jacoby Jones is an UDFA rookie and made possibly the most important play for the Commanders on Sunday. He was also the highest-graded Commander in a game this season. Chris Moore is garbage and washed and has dropped several crucial passes this season, including what would’ve… https://t.co/j872gNQTmO
— Wommanders (@Wommandrs) November 18, 2025
Jones should feel aggrieved. All he's done since joining the Commanders is seize moments. He's not the finished article just yet. Still, his poise and ability to generate yards after the catch are traits Washington's wideout unit desperately lacks, especially with so many established stars on the shelf.
Washington should bring him back onto the practice squad. They should also give him the chance to fight for a roster spot next year. Adam Peters has relied on old players for long enough; it's time for a massive strategy shift.
It was only a fleeting contribution. Even so, Jones proved he can produce in the big moments. What the future holds is unclear, but if the former UCF standout doesn't get back onto the practice squad, one has to wonder what the Commanders intend to evaluate the rest of the way.
Time will tell on that, but it does seem strange.