The Washington Commanders brought back veteran wide receiver Van Jefferson Jr. onto their practice squad. This improves the team's contingency plan if injuries strike, but it makes it tougher for one up-and-coming hopeful to stake a claim.
Undrafted rookie Jaden Bradley made a notable impression during his first offseason in Washington. He came up with plenty of splash plays throughout training camp and the preseason, but it wasn't quite enough to force his way onto the 53-man roster.
Bradley did manage to secure a spot on the practice squad, which was a no-brainer and his best-case scenario. But if the UNLV product was hoping to get called up as the best reserve pass-catcher, Jefferson's return changed that instantly.
Jaden Bradley must keep his bigger Commanders' picture in mind
Jefferson has more experience. He's got more proven production than anyone outside of Stefon Diggs or Terry McLaurin. Being on the practice squad is a new deal for him, but it gives the Commanders a nice insurance policy if the young pass-catchers behind the top duo cannot meet expectations.
Where that leaves Bradley is anyone's guess.
Being part of the setup allows Bradley to keep developing. McLaurin took the wideout under his wing this summer, praising him heavily for an outstanding work ethic and willingness to learn. These will be his primary objectives, and if he makes the desired progress, the Commanders could reward him with an elevation later in the season.
Bradley's short-term ambitions took a hit with Jefferson rejoining the fold. But the long-term goals have not changed whatsoever.
Improve. Learn. Build trust. And hopefully, do enough for a reserve/futures contract when the 2026 campaign concludes.
Commanders believe Jaden Bradley has a bright future, and Van Jefferson Jr.'s return doesn't change that
Anything after that is a bonus.
The Commanders have an enormous amount on the line this season. They clearly felt like another dependable option at receiver would be advantageous, and Jefferson is already well-versed in offensive coordinator David Blough's scheme. And with so many unknowns behind McLaurin and Diggs, this is a pretty safe bet.
That won't help Bradley's chances of making a difference. But it does give him another solid veteran to lean on for advice and guidance as he continues to develop.
Washington liked Bradley enough to sign him once the draft concluded. They liked him enough to bring him onto the practice squad once he cleared waivers. Those in power clearly believe he has a bright future, but this will be a redshirt year unless he has a meteoric surge.
And that's absolutely fine.
Bradley should recognize this situation for what it is. Would he like to get involved sooner rather than later? Of course, but it's not the end of the world if he doesn't.
Doing enough to stick around for the long haul is much more important at this early stage of his NFL journey.
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