Redskins: For WR Steven Sims Jr, making the final roster is only the beginning

For Steven Sims Jr., making the Washington Redskins final 53 man roster has to only be a starting point in what he hopes to be a path towards a long and successful career.  He cannot let up after winning a highly contested roster battle at the wide receiver position.

When Steven Sims Jr. found out that he was going to make the Washington Redskins final 53-man roster, he had to breathe a sigh of relief considering the intense battle he faced at wide receiver with now ex-teammates (for now), including Josh Doctson, Cam Sims, Darvin Kidsy, Jehu Chesson, and Brian Quick.

His performance in training camp and the preseason proved devastating to the futures of those players, as all were cut by the team before Saturday’s mandatory 4:00 PM deadline requiring each team to reduce their roster size to the maximum number of 53 players.

Signed by the Redskins immediately after the conclusion of the 2019 NFL Draft as an undrafted free agent out of Kansas, Sims Jr. arguably had a successful college career to include 2,598 yards from scrimmage and 19 total touchdowns.  The biggest issue that may have been responsible for him being undrafted, and not having been invited to participate in the NFL combine, was Kansas finishing with a paltry 6-42 overall record in his time with the team.

Needless to say, not a lot of pro scouts were breaking down the doors to see the Jayhawk football team in action with that lack of success.

In a previous article, I mentioned that Sims had all the tools to excel in a Redskins offense known for its excellent route concepts and ability to create space for wide receivers.  In his short time as a member of the Redskins, Sims Jr. has regularly displayed his speed, athleticism, and adaptability on the field.

Playing in all the team’s four preseason games against the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, and Baltimore Ravens, Sims Jr. did not necessarily put up the gaudy numbers expected from an undrafted player seeking to impress in order make an NFL roster.  However, what he did do was show the coaching staff that he was worthy a roster spot due to his workmanlike effort.

During his final audition against the aforementioned Ravens, Sims Jr. was able to take advantage of the limited opportunities given to him on offense and special teams.  As a kick returner he averaged forty yards per return on two chances, and on offense, he had one catch from rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins that went for a touchdown.  On the touchdown catch, which can be seen below, he was able to demonstrate his speed and strong hands by making a diving catch in the back corner of the end zone.

This performance against the Ravens most likely sealed the deal for Sims Jr. in making the final 53-man roster.

With Week 1 of the regular season against the Philadelphia Eagles just a little over a week away, Sims Jr. must continue to prove day in and day out that he was worthy of a roster spot.  He must continue to flash in practice and in games when given the chance, as every player will continuously be evaluated throughout the year.

With an inexperienced and oft-injured receiving core for the Redskins consisting of Paul Richardson, Terry McLaurin, Trey Quinn, Robert Davis, and Kelvin Harmon, Sims Jr. may hear his name called sooner rather than later.  If he does, he has to be able to remain consistent with his play.

Many young players may tend to be satisfied with the achievement of just making the final roster considering so few get the chance to do so.  As with any player, expectations will change considerably as each regular season game proves to be more and more important as a season progresses.

Even though he is an inexperienced rookie, Steven Sims Jr. will face his own set of expectations to perform for the Redskins.  If he cannot, he will most certainly realize that the real meaning of NFL is “Not For Long.”  He only has to look at the rise and fall of the previously mentioned Cam Sims for an example.