The Washington Commanders have worked hard to increase competition this offseason. Keeping standards high and increasing urgency was the correct strategy from general manager Adam Peters, one that should hopefully inspire everyone to greater heights heading into the 2025 campaign.
That won't work favorably for everybody. Peters and the coaching staff will be keeping a close eye on developments. Anyone not pulling their weight or failing to meet expectations won't come through onto the 53-man roster. But again, this is the right way to build through a professional outlook that puts the team first at all times.
The stakes couldn't be higher for some. One NFL analyst believes this puts veteran wide receiver K.J. Osborn firmly under the microscope.
Analyst believes K.J. Osborn might not make Commanders' roster in 2025
Kristopher Knox from The Bleacher Report named Osborn as Washington's best remaining player who could be cut before Week 1 rolls around. The analyst highlighted the additions of Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jaylin Lane as the primary reason he could be on the outside looking in, which is understandable in the circumstances.
"Wide receiver K.J. Osborn had three very strong campaigns (1,845 combined receiving yards) with the Minnesota Vikings before he joined the Patriots last offseason. However, he failed to make much of a mark in New England and was waived by the Patriots, then claimed by the Washington Commanders. Osborn re-signed with Washington this offseason but is no lock to make the final 53. The Commanders traded for Deebo Samuel, drafted Jaylin Lane and could save $740,000 by cutting Osborn before Week 1."Kristopher Knox
Osborn didn't lay a glove on the wideout options down the stretch after being scooped off the waiver wire. He was acquired as an emergency option when Noah Brown went to injured reserve. Although the former Auburn standout was used sparingly, those in power gave him another one-year deal.
This provides Osborn with a chance to establish himself with a full offseason under his belt. He's firmly on the roster bubble, so nothing less than excellence throughout will do. And in all honesty, even that might not be enough.
The Commanders have Terry McLaurin, Samuel, Lane, Brown, and Luke McCaffrey as roster locks. There is intrigue around Michael Gallup's presence after he came out of retirement this offseason. Undrafted free agent Ja'Corey Brooks also fancies his chances, so Osborn has his work cut out.
His previous production leaves hope, even though things didn't go according to plan with the New England Patriots. Osborn must impress immediately and begin to enter consideration. If not, he'll be removed from the equation.
