Story by
Two Rookies Add Versatility to Commanders Wide Receiver Room
- Story by
- Two Rookies Add Versatility to Commanders Wide Receiver Room
(Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images)
One week after a pair of rookies added intrigue to what the end of the running back room could look like, the Washington Commanders saw a pair of rookies shine on Saturday afternoon, but at a different position and one that was under the microscope all offseason.
The production at the top of the room hasn't been there in the limited reps through two games, yet wide receivers Antonio Williams and Jaden Bradley stuck out on Saturday to make the most of their reps after combining for 83 yards on five catches and six targets. Bradley's 42 yards narrowly edged Williams for the second-most on Washington behind Nick Nash, whose 55 yard reception fueled his team-high 62 yards. While quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis' throw to Nash was among the plays that point to the intrigue surrounding the rookie, Bradley's first catch of the day proved to be one of the highlights of the day after reeling in a one-handed, 30 yard catch that also drew a flag. It was also a catch that helped the Commanders push its way deep out of its own territory in a drive that ended with a 27 yard field goal from new starting kicker Drew Stevens.
Advertisement
Williams, meanwhile, showcased his route running and ability to create separation while becoming one of four receivers who caught all targets (min. two) their way. The highlight was Williams' third down catch after connecting with Kaliakmanis for a 21 yard pickup on a throw slightly behind the rookie, while his ten yard catch in the two minute drill during the first half was the type of play that has led the rookie to draw Amon-Ra St. Brown comparisons.
While Williams reinforced why he has a chance to become one of the more productive day two selections in his draft class, Bradley's profile as a 6-foot-4 local receiver adds intrigue to his fit at the end of the room. Saturday's performance highlighted Bradley's potential fit as a practice squad addition with his blend of size and athleticism a natural fit in David Blough 's offense. Saturday also highlighted why veteran Terry McLaurin described him as "very smooth" wide receiver ahead of his rookie season, adding to his profile as a potential weapon available.
One blemish that materialized was there did appear to be a miscommunication between Bradley and quarterback Sam Hartman on the failed fourth down attempt midway through the fourth quarter with a chance for Bradley to create separation on a shallow cross route like he showcased on a handful of his reps on Saturday. Still, the undrafted rookie has put together a string of encouraging performances through the offseason with an opportunity to eventually suit up in the stadium roughly half a mile away from where he played his high school football.
Though the final week of preseason will offer another unofficial chance for quarterback Jayden Daniels to connect with his newest weapon alongside Terry McLaurin, Williams and Bradley have shown how they can impact the receiver room to elevate the talent in the room.
