David Blough's admission that tight end Ben Sinnott has a long way to go raised alarm bells among the Washington Commanders' fan base. The 2024 second-round pick being an unknown quantity after two seasons doesn't exactly bode well for his long-term hopes, and it was evident that previous offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury didn't trust him enough to come through in key moments.
All hope is not lost with Sinnott, but this offseason could be make-or-break. One analyst thought a shift in responsibilities might be enough to get the Kansas State product back on the right track.
There is uncertainty around the tight end room this offseason. Zach Ertz is a free agent, but the door hasn't been completely closed on a return as he continues to make encouraging strides from a torn ACL. John Bates is cemented as the team's blocking specialist, so general manager Adam Peters may decide to reinforce the group with a pass-catching free agent or draft pick if the right situation presents itself.
Commanders should consider deploying Ben Sinnott more as a fullback in 2026
That wouldn't be the greatest referendum on Sinnott's outlook. However, Kevin Sheehan of 106.7 The Fan thought deploying him more as a fullback within Blough's new system could be the spark that kickstarts him to life.
Could Ben Sinnott play more of a fullback role in David Blough's scheme after Dan Quinn's comments? Kevin on the Commanders' tight end pic.twitter.com/8i0GaAh6nE
— The Team 980 (@team980) February 25, 2026
It's an interesting theory. It's also worth remembering that Peters compared Sinnott to Kyle Juszczyk — the premier fullback around the NFL and someone he spent time working with on the San Francisco 49ers — when the Commanders made their pick. He's also flashed more as a blocker than a pass-catcher, so there could be some merit to Sheehan's notion.
Obviously, much will depend on what the Commanders have planned with Ertz and whether any acquisitions arrive before on-field preparations for the 2026 campaign begin. Still, this would allow Sinnott to focus on his current strengths while continuing to grow into a more well-rounded player.
This would also fit into Blough's projected scheme, which reportedly will focus more on zone runs and aim to generate more explosive plays on the ground. Having a fullback in certain situations to assist in getting out on the move or plowing the road between the tackles has untold benefits. And for all Sinnott's inconsistencies since joining the club, his athleticism could make him tailor-made for this role.
Sinnott needs to attack this offseason. Fans were hoping to see more, and he hasn't delivered as yet. Whatever the Commanders have in store, he must seize every moment. Because if we're still talking about his lack of involvement after three years, that's a much bigger concern.
The Commanders will do their part. Using Sinnott as a fullback might just be the recipe for success.