K.J. Osborn - Commanders WR
Many were surprised when the Washington Commanders gave K.J. Osborn another one-year deal this offseason. The wide receiver didn't get a legitimate opportunity to impress after coming into the organization late in 2024. This was no doubt disappointing, but those in power want to see what the veteran pass-catcher can do with a full offseason on the squad.
Osborn has some decent previous production on the Minnesota Vikings. Things didn't go nearly as well with the New England Patriots, but it was clear from a long way out that it wasn't a good fit for either side. The Commanders brought him in as an insurance policy after Noah Brown's injury, but chances were at a premium.
The Commanders didn't sit on their hands where their wide receiver options were concerned this offseason. That makes it more difficult for Osborn to keep his roster spot, especially if the likes of rookie Jaylin Lane and Luke McCaffrey make the required improvements.
It's a fine line between success and failure for Osborn. Terry McLaurin (new contract pending), Deebo Samuel Sr., Brown, Lane, and McCaffrey are locks to make it. One or two spots remain for the rest, so the onus is on Osborn to leave no doubt regarding his outlook in 2025.
Jeremy McNichols - Commanders RB
The Commanders' running back dynamic didn't change much this offseason. But if Jacory Croskey-Merritt builds on his exceptional transition over Washington's offseason program, it could shift quickly.
Croskey-Merritt is a seventh-round pick with a potentially bright future. It was a rollercoaster journey to the NFL, but he's eager to make up for some lost time. That should put everyone on edge when training camp commences.
Washington will give everyone a chance to impress. Croskey-Merritt is the new arrival with big ambitions, but he might not unseat the projected starting tandem of Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler just yet. What is more attainable for the rookie is becoming the No. 3 option, which puts Jeremy McNichols' status firmly under the spotlight.
McNichols came into the Commanders last season and performed relatively well when called upon. There was nothing flashy about the way he went about his business, but there was far more good than bad when opportunities came his way.
This was enough for McNichols to get another one-year deal from the Commanders. It didn't come with any guarantees regarding his roster status, so a big effort is needed to improve his chances of keeping Croskey-Merritt below him in the pecking order.