Jordan Magee - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders are looking to liven things up at the linebacker position. After how things unfolded last season, no fans should be complaining about that.
Leo Chenal was an intriguing arrival in free agency who looks more than ready for a step up in responsibilities after thriving as a rotational force and special-teams ace with the Kansas City Chiefs. Daronte Jones plans to move Frankie Luvu back into an off-ball role, where he is undoubtedly best suited. And one couldn't dismiss the prospect of another asset arriving via the draft.
Sonny Styles would be a difficult proposition to turn down if he makes it to No. 7. Others also present intrigue a little further down the pecking order, and there will be nobody watching developments closer than Jordan Magee.
The former Temple standout has flashed immense promise on occasion. Magee is fast, instinctive, and physical. It would be a shock if he didn't play a part next season, but just how big a role is the question nobody knows the answer to right now.
Fans will get their answer during the draft. Chenal and Luvu look set to be the starters, with Magee slotted for a key rotational role. That dynamic will shift if Styles or another draft prospect enters the equation.
Jaylin Lane - Commanders WR
The Commanders' wide receiver room is more crowded after the signings of Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson Jr. If Brandon Aiyuk and a draft pick come into the fold in the not-too-distant future, the competition for places is going to be fierce this summer.
It's the price of progress. Competition brings improvements out of everybody. It keeps urgency high, which is precisely what Washington needs after such a disappointing campaign. What that means for Jaylin Lane's status remains to be seen, but a rousing effort is needed to secure more involvement in the offensive rotation.
Lane got only 32 targets in his rookie year, bringing in 16 receptions for 225 receiving yards. The Virginia Tech product was much more impactful as a returner, bringing back two punts to the house. That showcased his elusiveness and on-field vision to full effect, but he was a work in progress as a route runner.
Reports suggest Luke McCaffrey is ahead of Lane to become Washington's slot receiver in 2026, replacing Deebo Samuel Sr. He'll go even further down the pecking order if Aiyuk and potentially someone like Carnell Tate arrive. That is only going to make things more difficult in pursuit of taking the next step.