The Washington Commanders' wide receiver battle became more urgent for some after the high-profile arrival of four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs. But for Dyami Brown, the returning pass-catcher is proving that he won't go away quietly.
With Terry McLaurin and Diggs both getting rest days during Day 11 of training camp, it gave those lower down the pecking order a bigger chance to showcase their talent in a more prominent role. And based on the reports from those in attendance, Brown was arguably the standout performer.
When Brown returned to Washington this offseason after an ill-fated year with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he had a hidden advantage working in his favor. There was already developed chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels, and after spending a lot of time together away from the team, this has only strengthened.
Dyami Brown is doing everything possible to make Commanders' roster
It came across throughout practice. Brown made some impressive catches. The timing with Daniels was on point, and his confidence is clearly growing. While this was only one practice, it's another sign of the North Carolina product's comfort level going up a notch.
Brown admitted to learning some harsh lessons with the Jaguars, and with good reason.
Like his time in Washington, the wideout started on the front foot but faded just as quickly. Brown has come out on the other end with a second chance on the team that drafted him, and the 2021 third-round selection is eager not to waste it.
This is positive for Brown. But make no mistake; his situation remains precarious.
McLaurin and Diggs are the top dogs. Third-round rookie Antonio Williams will make the team, as will Treylon Burks and Luke McCaffrey. Jaylin Lane will be difficult to leave out as a one-year pro who can also help on special teams. If the Commanders keep seven receivers, that leaves one spot for the rest.
Brown is in a fight with Van Jefferson Jr. and undrafted rookie Jaden Bradley for the final place. And it might come down to who excels more in the preseason.
While head coach Dan Quinn wants to get his starters some reps, it'll be the fringe guys who get the lion's share. Where Brown fits into this equation will be telling. But either way, he must turn his camp flashes into something of substance when opportunities come his way.
Dyami Brown's situation remains precarious despite strong camp performances
It's a fine-margins situation. Jefferson has caught the eye at camp, while Bradley is also flashing promise. It'll be a tough call, but with the rookie looking like a strong candidate to make the practice squad, it'll likely come down to the two veterans.
And there is just no telling which way it'll go right now.
All Brown can do is stack good days and let the chips fall where they may after that. Having a strong chemistry with Daniels works in his favor, but he simply cannot get outperformed by Jefferson during Washington's warm-up slate.
That's the long and short of it, really.
Brown has always had the athletic attributes. He was often a summer standout before failing to meet the same standards during the regular season. Aside from his renaissance during the Commanders' sensational run to the NFC Championship game in 2024, his first spell in Washington was underwhelming.
He cannot fall into the same trap again. But the resolve being displayed by Brown could not be more positive.
Let's see if he can keep it up.
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