Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR
Luke McCaffrey is a curious case. The Washington Commanders thought enough of the wide receiver to take him No. 100 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. This came with a minimal contribution despite gaining plenty of reps throughout his rookie campaign.
McCaffrey was brought along gradually by the coaching staff. Not entirely surprising considering he'd only played two seasons at wide receiver in college, but the fact he accumulated nothing more than 24 targets within an offense known for sharing the wealth is a slight concern.
There was a lot to like about McCaffrey's efforts in the return game. His strength seems to be over the short-to-intermediate areas with the football in his hands. Unfortunately for the second-year pro, that's also where Deebo Samuel Sr. thrives.
Acquiring Samuel isn't exactly the biggest vote of confidence in McCaffrey. All hope is not lost by any stretch of the imagination, but we'll find out what those in power feel about the pass-catcher with other pending signings or draft picks in the wide receiver room.
This is an important offseason for McCaffrey. The former Rice star must respond positively to coaching and make the improvements needed to carve out a bigger role for himself next time around.
Dyami Brown - Commanders WR
Dyami Brown's renaissance over the final stages of the regular season and into the playoffs was surprising and pleasing in equal measure. This isn't going to go unnoticed by teams looking for wide receiver help in free agency.
Brown's time in Washington was heading down the same track. Flashing promise in the preseason wasn't enough to extend his involvement. But when Noah Brown went to season-ending injured reserve, his final opportunity to flourish arrived.
The former third-round pick seized the moment. Brown became a trusted target for Jayden Daniels and made some huge plays throughout Washington's sensational run to the NFC Championship game. A disappointing fumble versus the Philadelphia Eagles aside, there was a lot to like about his raised efforts.
While Brown didn't rule out coming back, he's also keen to explore free agency and potentially get more money elsewhere. The Commanders found an upgrade for their screen game with Deebo Samuel Sr., so overpaying to keep the North Carolina product is not an option.
With Samuel and Terry McLaurin around, Brown would be nothing more than No. 3 at best in the wideout room. If more additions arrive in some capacity, that'll further diminish his role.
All signs point to Brown getting a bigger deal elsewhere. Trading for Samuel did nothing to dispel that notion.