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Commanders quietly reopen NFL door for fallen star as WR rumors intensify

This was intriguing.
Wide receiver Justyn Ross
Wide receiver Justyn Ross | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

All the rumors have centered on the Washington Commanders adding either Stefon Diggs or Brandon Aiyuk to their ranks at some stage. But general manager Adam Peters is also exploring other options to potentially provide a spark in the wide receiver room.

According to reports, the Commanders recently worked out Justyn Ross following a successful season in the UFL. While this might not move the needle much, it shows that Peters is willing to think outside the box.

Aiyuk is still under contract with the San Francisco 49ers, for now. Diggs is clearly taking his time, assessing all options before choosing his next destination. And until something becomes concrete, his interest in a possible homecoming to the Commanders seems pretty one-sided.

Commanders reportedly work out Justyn Ross as WR rumors continue to swirl

Ross is an interesting case study. He looked like superstardom might be beckoning at Clemson before a devastating spinal injury saw his stock slide dramatically. The wideout was also suspended by the league for an off-field issue, but the Kansas City Chiefs were willing to give him a shot.

After two seasons in Kansas City, Ross was released before training camp last year. He never got another shot elsewhere, so moving to the UFL was the only viable option to galvanize his career. After gaining 22 receptions for 327 receiving yards and two touchdowns for the Birmingham Stallions, the Commanders wanted to take a closer look.

The Commanders are well-stocked in their wideout unit. There aren't many legitimate game-changers, and Ross probably isn't one either. He's got the size and wingspan to be impactful, but it would be surprising if any deal was offered.

Peters is constantly evaluating. He's constantly seeking upgrades and won't hesitate to make more changes if needed. Even so, the current wide receiver landscape may demand a proven performer rather than another camp body whose best hope is a practice squad spot and not much else.

Still, it shows the Commanders are looking.

Aiyuk's connection to quarterback Jayden Daniels leads many around the league to believe his switch to Washington will be a foregone conclusion when San Francisco cuts ties. He's missed a lot of football and is criticized for his poor judgment, too. But unlike Ross, he has previously produced at an All-Pro level.

It didn't cost the Commanders anything to find out if Ross could help them in some way. For the player, it was no doubt a useful experience that got his foot back in the door for NFL consideration.

Just don't expect anything to come from it.

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