4 surprising Commanders standouts from 2023 OTAs so far
By Dean Jones
Jalen Sample - Commanders WR
Considering how stacked the wide receiver room is at the top end, it'll be difficult for any hopeful to carve out a prominent role with the Washington Commanders in 2023. The top four spots look cemented, so it's a case of who catches the eye enough to fill out the remaining two or three positions.
Even though his chances of making the 53-man roster appear slim, that hasn't stopped Jalen Sample from making his presence felt throughout OTAs. The undrafted free agent out of Minnesota State is a huge body at 6-foot-4 with the explosiveness to match - something that's made him a difficult cover for almost everyone according to reports.
Regardless of how this eventually pans out for Sample, he's keen to maximize the chance and let the chips fall where they may after. Even if he doesn't make the grade in Washington, putting out good vibes en route to glowing recommendations is the best way to earn a practice squad spot elsewhere.
Sample has something a little different to what the Commanders already possess. Most of their starting pass-catchers are on the smaller side, relying on elusiveness and sharp route-running rather than physical presence - so this could be a nice alternative for offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to call upon.
While the play-caller might have reserved this spot for Marcus Kemp, who is also a fantastic special teams contributor, Sample is well worth keeping an eye on as the summer progresses.