Ben Sinnott - Commanders TE
The Washington Commanders have been waiting a long time for Ben Sinnott to put together an all-around contribution. This is now Year 3 of his professional career, and the tight end continues to be on the fringes after failing to break into the team's plans.
Based on his performance against the New York Giants, that might be about to change.
The Commanders were forced to trust Sinnott when Chig Okonkwo left the game with a back issue. While the free-agent signing returned to the lineup, offensive coordinator David Blough took the opportunity to see what the Kansas State product could do in the prime-time pressure cooker.
Sinnott took full advantage, putting together the best game of his NFL journey by a considerable margin.
The 2024 second-round selection is making a difference as a blocker. But for the first time this season, Sinnott became a major factor in the passing game, catching all four of his targets for 42 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Not exactly prime Jordan Reed numbers. But considering his minimal output since being drafted, this is a big positive that Sinnott can hopefully build upon.
Sinnott was always confident he could become more influential when opportunities arose. They have been in short supply, but after this showing, the tide may be turning.
Jeremy Reaves - Commanders S
Jeremy Reaves might not be the most athletic. He might not be the most skillful or boast the greatest measurables. But his importance to the Commanders cannot be overstated.
Reaves was seen as a special-teams force, and an All-Pro-caliber one, earlier in his career. He saw more work in the defensive rotation last season, and his responsibilities have increased even more under Daronte Jones.
It's not been perfect from Reaves this season, but that goes for almost everybody. However, he never backs down from a fight, and his exceptional leadership is a major asset.
The South Alabama product's performance against the New York Giants was arguably his best of the campaign. Reaves was flying around the field with controlled aggression, becoming a linchpin on the back end. This allowed Nick Cross to get closer to the line of scrimmage on blitz packages, providing the balance Jones is looking for.
Reaves finished the game with nine tackles, one pass breakup, and one quarterback hit. But his impact on his teammates is even more important than any statistic.
He's deeply respected. Reaves is someone everyone looks to for motivation, and he has no problem taking on those responsibilities. And the Commanders are lucky to have him.
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