Losing veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a torn ACL provided the Washington Commanders with a chance to see what Ben Sinnott could do from a prominent role. His efforts in Week 15 against the New York Giants left fans wondering why he hadn't been a featured player more often.
Kliff Kingsbury didn't provide many answers. Instead, the offensive coordinator sparked scrutiny with a bewildering comment that left the team's passionate supporters perplexed.
The Commanders had high hopes for Sinnott after taking him No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. He's been used sparingly as Ertz and John Bates took center stage. However, whenever the Kansas State star's number is called, he almost always delivers.
Kliff Kingsbury's glaring admission must lead to more involvement for Ben Sinnott
Kingsbury acknowledged as much during his latest appearance in front of the media. The play-caller said Sinnott continues to progress well, adding that he always seems to step up when the Commanders need him most.
"He's continued to progress, and like I've said all along, when his opportunity has risen in the game, he's stepped up."Kliff Kingsbury via Commanders.com
If this is the case, why wasn't Sinnott introduced into the game plan earlier in the campaign? It's a complete mystery, and fans have been clamoring for precisely this for weeks.
Ertz was playing well, of course, but he's the present and the past. Sinnott represents the future, and the Commanders have been desperately seeking an offensive spark throughout the campaign.
The Commanders weren't planning for Sinnott to get the ball on a crucial second down late in the game versus the Giants. His nuanced route running created enough separation for veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota to take the risk downfield, which paid off handsomely. This should hopefully serve as a message to Kingsbury: give the second-year pro chances, and he will make things happen.
There is nothing left to lose at this point. The Commanders aren't playing for anything other than division pride as a potential spoiler to their two most hated rivals. Washington should be in evaluation mode, and what better way to see if Sinnott's flashes can become something more than making him a focal point against the vaunted Philadelphia Eagles defense this weekend.
Kingsbury can see his progression. He can see that the tight end is trustworthy as a run blocker and pass-catcher. This admission can only lead to one thing moving forward. Anything less is organizational malpractice at this point.
Ertz has likely played his final snap in a Washington uniform. Bates will be back, but there is an opening for Sinnott to creep into if everything goes well over the next three weeks.
If the Commanders don't give him that chance, especially after his performance last time out, they will be doing Sinnott a fierce disservice.