The Washington Commanders’ roster remains in flux as the preseason is well underway, with several key positions yet to be finalized. Among the most intriguing battles is the competition for the second wide receiver (WR2) spot. Several players are making strong cases to line up opposite established star Terry McLaurin, who enters the 2024 season as the team’s unquestioned number one option.
Wide Receiver Competition Heats Up
Jahan Dotson, now in his third year with the team, has yet to be officially designated as the WR2. Dotson has shown considerable promise in his first two seasons, but consistency has often been elusive. Still, the potential he has displayed makes him a candidate worth keeping an eye on. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn remarked, “Looking forward to getting Luke some extra work in here. Jahan, Dyami, so that's where we're at,” underlining the open competition and the need for Dotson and others to seize their opportunities.
Another notable contender is Olamide Zaccheaus, who joined the Commanders this offseason. Zaccheaus, undrafted in 2019, has proven himself a reliable target during his stints with the Atlanta Falcons and the Philadelphia Eagles. Boasting significant game experience, Zaccheaus has played in 72 games with 24 starts, recording 104 receptions on 171 targets for 1,492 yards and 10 touchdowns. His performance in camp has not gone unnoticed; Dan Quinn commented, “I've been really impressed with Olamide, I thought he’s had a really strong camp.” Zaccheaus' maturity and consistent performance may provide the steadiness the Commanders need on the field.
Dark Horse Candidates
Dyami Brown, another potential candidate for WR2, was a third-round pick in 2021. Last season, Brown played in 15 games without any starts, though he made six starts during his rookie year. With 29 career receptions for 476 yards and three touchdowns, Brown has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, yet he remains somewhat of an enigma regarding his potential to capture and sustain a starting role. With the team's focus on enhancing its passing game, opportunities will indeed be available for Brown to showcase his skills.
Adding to the mix is Luke McCaffrey, who is entering his rookie year. Sometimes, rookies can make surprising impacts, and McCaffrey will undoubtedly look to make a strong impression during the preseason games. While it’s too early to gauge his potential fully, their inclusion adds another layer of depth to the competition.
Veteran Additions
The Commanders have also recently signed Martavis Bryant, who has been out of the NFL since 2018. Bryant’s addition to the roster is admittedly a wildcard. Known for his size and speed during his time in the league, Bryant's comeback attempt brings elements of intrigue and unpredictability. Whether he can make a successful return and contribute significantly remains to be seen.
Upcoming Fixtures
The next test for these wide receivers will come on Aug. 17, when the Commanders face off against the New England Patriots in their next preseason game. This matchup will be a keen observation point for coaches and fans alike to see how these WR2 candidates perform under game conditions.
The regular season kicks off on Sept. 8, with Washington opening against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. All eyes will be on who lines up alongside Terry McLaurin and whether they can fill the shoes of a reliable secondary target.
As the competition for key roster spots continues, the Commanders’ coaching staff will be tasked with making critical decisions that could shape the trajectory of their offensive strategy for the 2024 season. The coming weeks will undoubtedly bring more clarity, but for now, the battle remains as fierce as ever, with each player striving to leave their mark.