Phase 3 of the Washington Commanders' 2026 offseason workout program is upon us. There are several fascinating storylines worth monitoring, including (but not limited to) veteran wide receiver Treylon Burks' continued growth.
As fans are all too aware of by now, the Commanders' wideout room leaves much to be desired beyond star Terry McLaurin. The club has been heavily connected to a handful of the top still-available free agents and potential trade candidates, albeit to no avail. At this rate, an internal option will have to step up, and Burks has a prime chance to separate himself from the pack.
While Washington keeps scouring the market for pass-catching help, a strong showing from Burks during organized team activities (OTAs) could change the calculus.
Treylon Burks has a golden opportunity to emerge as Commanders' early WR2 favorite at OTAs
At 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, the big-bodied Burks offers a different look than his positional counterparts. The 2022 No. 18 overall pick is physically gifted and has the makings of an intriguing deep and red-zone threat. Meanwhile, the quartet of promising third-round rookie Antonio Williams, Jaylin Lane, Luke McCaffrey and Dyami Brown all do most of their damage from the slot.
Of course, voluntary practices without pads will only take Burks so far in terms of making a favorable impression. However, the Commanders are notably installing a new system under first-year offensive coordinator David Blough. There are no wasted moments when implementing change, giving anyone who picks up the system quickly a leg up on the rest of the group.
Not to mention, a good relationship with Blough admittedly factored into Burks' decision to stay in Washington. The two clearly have a sense of respect for and trust in each other that can't be overlooked in the grand scheme of things. Their connection should give the latter ample reps to carve out a meaningful role.
Washington re-signed Burks to a one-year contract extension with a max value of $4 million back in March. The financial commitment (or lack thereof) suggests he's slated for part-time duties at best. Nevertheless, there's more than enough room for another mouth to feed, and his competition is the aforementioned list of unproven and unheralded names.
Burks caught 10 of 22 targets for 130 yards and a touchdown across 8 games with the Commanders in 2025. His lone score was one of the best catches of the season, showcasing elite jump-ball skills — in primetime.
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