Jahan Dotson trade can propel Commanders' rookie to immediate superstardom

Adam Peters is aggressive and doing what he believes is in the Washington Commanders' best interests with no sentimental value attached to his decision-making process. Another example of this came when the new general manager traded wide receiver Jahan Dotson to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Dotson didn't fit into the team's plans and was moved to a division rival. That was the most contentious issue about the transaction, but Peters took the best offer available. That's a sign of either something else in the works from an acquisition standpoint or supreme confidence in the weapons already at his disposal.

Much of the focus centered on the wide receivers who'll stand to benefit from Dotson's departure. However, the trade could propel another under-the-radar pass-catcher into the limelight sooner than some anticipated.

Ben Sinnott can become Commanders' difference-maker after Jahan Dotson trade

Ben Sinnott was the No. 53 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft and came into the Commanders with the potential to become a complete package at the tight end position with some extra refinement. His progress was encouraging throughout the offseason. Learning the ropes from someone like veteran Pro Bowler Zach Ertz assisted his growth considerably.

The tight ends should be involved more frequently within offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts. Dotson's targets will have to go somewhere - especially considering the need for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to hit the ground running under center. This could see a large volume come Sinnott's way if he impresses enough over the first few games of the regular season.

Sinnott's got the size, and mobility to become impactful. He has a good sense of body control in contested catch situations. His route tree needs enhancement, but the early signs are extremely positive.

The former Kansas State star accumulated 676 receiving yards and six touchdowns from 49 receptions in 2023. If Sinnott can gain more targets in the wake of trading Dotson and get anywhere close to these numbers, the Commanders will be in a tremendous spot.

That seems a little ambitious in the grand scheme of things. But one only has to look at how Sam LaPorta - a second-round pick last year - thrived immediately with the Detroit Lions last season to see what could be accomplished in the right environment.

Tempering expectations with Sinnott would be wise. He's got a lot to learn despite the obvious physical attributes at his disposal. What the Commanders need to figure out is how much he can take on right out of the gate and as the campaign progresses.

Someone is going to benefit more than anybody from Washington's decision to remove Dotson from the equation. Sinnott is being overlooked as a potential candidate, but don't be surprised if the first-year pro quickly emerges into a focal point if early momentum is generated.

That's a lot to ask. Looking at the way Sinnott's passed every test so far, there's a lot to like about his chances of taking the league by storm in 2024.

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