Andre Jones Jr. - Commanders OLB
The Washington Commanders have some questions to answer in their edge-rushing unit this offseason. Adam Peters made some slight tweaks, but not enough to diminish fans' concerns. And considering the high-stakes attached next season, they cannot afford to have even the slightest weak links.
There are options for Peters if he decides more is needed. The Commanders have enough spare cash to splash on another veteran or two if the right opportunities present themselves. That'll push others further down the pecking order, so a huge effort is needed for some to turn the tide.
Andre Jones Jr. is one of them. The former seventh-round selection didn't make the roster last season but got a reprieve on the practice squad. He logged just 17 defensive snaps throughout the campaign, gaining one tackle. That doesn't exactly scream confidence in his capabilities from the new regime.
Jones signed a reserve/futures deal this offseason, but there are no guarantees. Unless the required improvements arrive — starting with OTAs before going to mandatory minicamp and training camp — he might not last much longer.
At the same time, there is a chance for Jones to catch the eye enough to raise his status on the depth chart. But everything has to go well for that scenario to become reality.
Jacoby Jones - Commanders WR
It's hard for undrafted free agents to establish themselves. Not impossible by any stretch, but standing out over early workouts is the only way to provide the correct foundation.
There is typically an adjustment period. The difference between college and the pros is vast. It's a cutthroat business with grown men vying to keep their jobs from the latest crop of rookies looking to make their case. Some make it, but the large majority often fall by the wayside.
The challenge awaiting Jacoby Jones this offseason cannot be overstated. The former UCF star was scooped up quickly by the Commanders after failing to hear his name called during the draft. He's got some likable qualities, but Washington massively upgraded its wideout corps throughout Adam Peters' second recruitment period at the helm.
Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel Sr., Noah Brown, Luke McCaffrey, and rookie Jaylin Lane are locks to make the team. Michael Gallup might too, after coming out of retirement. K.J. Osborn, Mike Strachan, and Ja'Corey Brooks will also fancy their chances. That leaves little room for someone like Jones, whose production in college doesn't exactly indicate a seamless transition is in the offing.
Unless Jones makes a couple of standout plays at OTAs, his time with the Commanders could be short-lived.