Throughout the 2025 offseason, one position group that wasn't expected to feature very much drama was the Washington Commanders' tight end room.
Once veteran Zach Ertz expectedly re-signed, it all seemed clear. The three-time Pro Bowler would be the starter, John Bates would be the blocking specialist after getting a long-term commitment from the franchise, and Ben Sinnott would continue to develop.
However, a wild card has been thrown into the mix in the form of 2024 undrafted free agent Colson Yankoff, who primarily played on special teams last season. He's reportedly taken a major step forward to the point where Washington's coaches want to get him involved in the passing game. That might shake things up considerably.
Most NFL teams only elect to keep three tight ends on their roster. The Commanders have usually been no exception to that.
Colson Yankoff's surge over Commanders' offseason program raises the stakes for Ben Sinnott
Last year, Yankoff made it four, but he spent a chunk of the season on injured reserve before returning to appear in two playoff games. He took only six offensive snaps and did not record any statistics outside of special teams.
If he continues to be a revelation this offseason, that might change in 2025. In this scenario, Washington may have to make room for him to be part of the offensive rotation.
It would be shocking if the Commanders released Ertz despite his age making him expendable. He's one of the team's most respected leaders and still a productive player who enjoyed his best campaign in several years last fall. Bates' role as a blocker and overall "glue guy" also feels secure.
That leaves Sinnott, the second-round pick who struggled to get on the field as a rookie. After entering the season with some reasonable hype, the Kansas State product caught only five passes for 28 receiving yards and one touchdown.
Sinnott will have every opportunity this summer to make strides, but so will Yankoff. So far, it appears that the less heralded second-year contributor is the one doing more to raise his stock.
As it stands today, one has to wonder whether or not the two-time first-team All-Big 12 member would make the Commanders' roster. However, head coach Dan Quinn was glowing in his praise of Sinnott for the work ethic and improvements demonstrated over the offseason.
Although that's a big positive, Yankoff's surprising emergence needs to be taken as a shot in the arm for Sinnott. After Washington drafted him to be the future face of the team's tight end position, patience may be running out sooner than expected.
It's time to put up or shut up.
