5 overlooked storylines to watch at Commanders 2024 training camp

Who is the Commanders' fourth wide receiver?

You could also ask who the fifth, sixth, and even seventh wide receivers are for the Washington Commanders next season. But for now, we’ll focus on No. 4.

That is a crucial role because he is not merely a depth player. The fourth receiver should have some special packages designed primarily for them. He will be on the field in four-wide situations. He should offer something very specific - whether it is game-breaking speed, or reliable slot shiftiness to secure crucial medium-range first downs.

Terry McLaurin is the clear No. 1 receiver. Youngsters Jahan Dotson and Luke McCaffery will be on the field a lot, whether they are ready for it or not. Those players will be expected to run all the routes and make plays in any situation.

The fourth receiver should emerge from the next group of players - veterans Dyami Brown, Jamison Crowder, Olamide Zaccheaus, and Damiere Byrd - along with the undrafted free-agent darlings of the last two summers - Mitchell Tinsley and Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint.

Brown has mostly filled this role in recent seasons for the Commanders, but his production has been sporadic at best. This is almost certainly his final chance in Washington after underachieving as a third-round selection so far.

There is also an unlikely but possible scenario. If the Commanders' coaches don’t find anyone amongst the current crop of wideouts to trust with this role, they could get creative and again begin experimenting.

They could either try lining up Austin Ekeler wide. This is similar to how the previous regime would sometimes move J.D. McKissic to the outside, or even see if the supremely athletic Armani Rogers could line up at receiver.

Rogers has already transitioned from college quarterback to tight end. Such a move might not be as outlandish as it seems. It would also provide the Commanders with a physical threat that's sorely missing right now.