Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Adam Peters arrives edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Ja'Lynn Polk
- Wide Receiver | Washington Huskies
- No. 67 overall
The Washington Commanders wide receivers - aside from prolific veteran Terry McLaurin - failed to meet expectations this season. This was a far cry from the bold predictions being made before the campaign surrounding the likes of Jahan Dotson, Curtis Samuel, and Dyami Brown.
Samuel is out of contract and might not return. The do-it-all weapon should be in high demand thanks to his unique skill set. Washington must make a contingency plan for this eventuality and acquire another potentially dynamic weapon to go alongside McLaurin and Dotson.
Ja'Lynn Polk's rise to prominence this season with the Washington was immensely impressive. The wideout is an explosive downfield threat with the size to make contested catches. Something that was reflected in his 69 receptions for 1,159 receiving yards and nine touchdowns as the Huskies went on a memorable run to the college football national championship before falling short.
Polk has the top-end speed to blow past opposing cornerbacks in a hurry. Despite being on the bigger side for a receiver, this doesn't impact his ability to get out of his routes quickly to create separation. This is matched by eye-catching capabilities with the football in his hands.
Once Polk gets coached up and becomes more aware of coverages pre-snap, someone is going to have a real player on their hands. This is exactly the sort of outside presence the Commanders were lacking in 2023.