Commanders WR is putting himself on the map (and it's not who you think)

Players are giving everything they've got to prove themselves at training camp. The Washington Commanders are starting fresh under the new regime. It's an ongoing evaluation from front-office personnel and coaches alike. Nothing but increased production will do to get noticed.

One of the most fascinating dynamics this summer centers on the wide receiver unit. The Commanders added a couple of capable performers to the group this offseason. Adam Peters is also giving those who underachieved under earlier head coach Ron Rivera the benefit of the doubt. However, the margin for error is incredibly slim for most.

Terry McLaurin is the No. 1 by a considerable margin. Jahan Dotson looks capable of mounting a breakout campaign that was supposed to arrive in 2023. Hopes are high that third-round pick Luke McCaffrey can become a dependable piece of the puzzle as he continues to learn the nuances of playing the position. Veteran free agent Olamide Zaccheaus' impressive start to camp enhances his chances exponentially.

Another unheralded wideout is beginning to impose himself. Not many expected it, so it's the biggest bonus imaginable.

Brycen Tremayne staking a strong claim to make Commanders' roster in 2024

Brycen Tremayne was acquired on a decent contract in 2023 undrafted free agency. The physically imposing pass-catcher knows quarterbacks' coach Tavita Pritchard well from their time together at Stanford. This didn't amount to much playing time after spending most of his rookie campaign inactive or on the practice squad. Despite this inactivity, the experience of being around an NFL setup served him well based on his output so far.

Tremayne is making reps count. He's 6-foot-4 with encouraging athleticism, so these traits offer something different to Washington's passing attack. There's also a lot to like about his ability to track the football downfield and use his wide wing span to excel in contested catch situations.

He's not the quickest, which holds Tremayne back. His 4.57-second time in the 40-yard dash at Stanford's pro day wasn't great. At the same time, his physical approach and assured hands make him an intriguing candidate to make the 53-man roster.

Having this sort of tall, imposing presence can be an asset over short-to-intermediate routes. Tremayne's nous for getting off press coverage quickly makes him an enticing red-zone weapon for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Before this, he must prove himself worthy of involvement.

It's been a bright start to camp for Tremayne, but what comes next is more important. The Commanders would be wise to give the player targets aplenty over their preseason slate. Doing it in practice is one thing. If the hopeful can produce in a more typical game-day setting, that'll carry a ton of weight.

Those lower down the depth chart must also prove capable of assisting on special teams. That's the key for many in their quest to make rosters around the league. Tremayne is still a relative unknown in this regard, but we should find out more during Washington's warmup fixtures in the coming weeks.

Tremayne has a shot. That's all he can ask for at this juncture. Maintaining his high-performance levels and building momentum is the next aim. After that, everything else is out of his hands.

That said, don't be surprised if Tremayne's name is on Washington's initial 53-man squad when it's all said and done.

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