The unofficial depth chart during the offseason means very little in the grand scheme of things. However, there was a lot more to unpack when the Washington Commanders released their depth chart before their eagerly anticipated Week 1 game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
For Treylon Burks, it was the biggest confidence boost imaginable.
Burks was listed as a starting wide receiver alongside Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs. Third-round rookie Antonio Williams was behind him, and the Clemson product will probably surpass him at some stage.
Treylon Burks is finally on the right track as Commanders keep faith
But for now, it seems as if offensive coordinator David Blough will be true to his word.
The former Arkansas playmaker signed a new one-year deal in Washington this offseason. While the money and stability were nice, Burks was convinced by Blough's vision for him in his offense. And it could be a prominent role if the depth chart revelation is any indication.
This will be interchangeable. Washington has seven receivers, all capable of playing roles. McLaurin and Diggs will be the top dogs, but everyone else has to earn their time on the field.
Burks is no different, though he could get the first shot to solidify his spot at Lincoln Financial Field.
And after some rough luck to begin his NFL journey, the tide may officially be turning for Burks.
The Tennessee Titans eventually gave up on Burks. Injuries denied him any chance to build momentum, and the wideout was clearly lacking in confidence. That's a dangerous combination, but some stability in Washington seems to be giving him a new lease of life.
Treylon Burks must capitalize on extra stability to galvanize his career
Williams has long-term potential. McLaurin and Diggs provide the experience, and Dyami Brown could also earn his fair share of targets after making the team. The Commanders also have Jaylin Lane and Luke McCaffrey, though they have special-teams value more than anything else right now.
Burks will fancy his chances. He's got all the athleticism and physical attributes in the world. It's about raising consistency and stacking good performances. After that, everything else should take care of itself.
Even so, it will not be easy.
The Eagles have questions to answer on offense, but their defense should be a strength. They also have one of the best cornerback trios in the league, with Quinyon Mitchel, Cooper DeJean, and free-agent signing Riq Woolen representing a difficult proposition to overcome.
This will be a big test for Burks and everyone else. But if Blough believes in his credentials, fans should too.
It is the opportunity Burks has been waiting for. Seizing the moment will be the challenging part, but the faith being shown by the Commanders might be the spark that finally ignites his career when hope was seemingly fading rapidly.
Burks deserves enormous credit for fighting back in the face of significant adversity. But the hard work is only just beginning.
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