The Washington Commanders only took five wide receivers onto their 53-man roster. It's a calculated risk by general manager Adam Peters, which outlines supreme confidence in the options available as Kliff Kingsbury's offense looks to become one of the league's best in 2025.
And judging by the hype building around rookie Jaylin Lane, he could be set for a more established role than anyone initially anticipated in Year 1 of his professional career.
The Commanders thought they had a steal on their hands with Lane. He wasn't used effectively during his final college career at Virginia Tech, which saw his stock drop considerably. Peters didn't flinch when he was available at No. 128 overall in the draft. He felt the dynamism attached to his on-field production could be far more useful in Kingsbury's schematic concepts. And so far, that seems to be the case.
Commanders' hype soars around Jaylin Lane after highest possible praise
Lane went through some typical rookie growing pains over early workouts, but it didn't take long for everything to click. He listened, took advice from the coaches and veterans, and took off. That sort of thing wasn't going to go unnoticed.
With Lane firmly entrenched as a potentially important long-term piece of the puzzle, the praise has been glowing. Amid all the hype around Terry McLaurin's bumper contract extension, it was notable that the second-team All-Pro went out of his way to credit the rookie for his application and professionalism. That's the best way to get veterans onside; just ask franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Terry McLaurin working with rookie Jaylin Lane during practice. pic.twitter.com/HUkyP2wOL7
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) August 28, 2025
Speaking of Daniels, he also spoke glowingly of Lane after practice, outlining how visible the progression is within the player. If the first-year pro was looking for vindication, he got it from two of Washington's premier pieces.
Jayden Daniels says Jaylin Lane continues to get better every day - “you can see the progression”
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) August 28, 2025
If McLaurin and Daniels can see it, Kingsbury does too. Tempering expectations would be wise initially. But once Lane finds his feet, there is just no telling what he might be capable of.
Expect Lane to gain a moderate amount of targets behind McLaurin, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Noah Brown in the passing game. He'll also be tasked with kick return duties, which should put his elusiveness and speed to good use while developing other areas of his game.
Watching how Kingsbury deploys Lane will be a fascinating element to Washington's offensive equation. His influence should increase as the season goes on, but don't be shocked if the gifted weapon becomes a surprise the NFL doesn't see coming when it's all said and done.
More Commanders news and analysis