Training camp is the time on the NFL calendar when teams can unearth surprise packages who make the roster and become useful contributors, like a “massive target” who’s an “interesting” prospect for the Washington Commanders.
Converted quarterback Tyree Jackson is one “to watch during training camp,” according to Commanders.com Senior Writer Zach Selby. He pointed out how former Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants tight end Jackson is “6-7 and 249 pounds, so if he can earn a spot, he would be a massive target.”
A big-bodied receiving threat with inside knowledge of what a passer wants when targeting underneath areas of the field should have value for the Commanders. Particularly as part of a position group top heavy with an ageing star, but underpinned by a disappointing youngster.
Tyree Jackson Can Be Valuable for Commanders
Sensational dual-threat quarterback Jayden Daniels took the NFL by storm in 2024, but the Offensive Rookie of the Year is still refining his game and will have his efficiency challenged by defenses better prepared for his skills this year.
Accurate short-range passing helped Daniels succeed during his first year, but the next step must involve pushing the ball vertically more often. Having a size mismatch like Jackson to aim for would only make that task easier.
The 27-year-old has appeared in only 16 regular-season games in four years and made just seven catches, per Pro Football Reference, but the physical traits remain encouraging. Traits Jackson showed off with this catch and run for the Giants last preseason, highlighted by Dan Schneier of CBS Sports.
Schneier wisely pinpointed Jackson’s potential effectiveness inside the red zone. His frame and move skills have already proved to be assets near the goal-line.
Jackson turned his first catch in meaningful action into a three-yard touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys during the 2021 season. Few defenders are going to relish bringing down a player of Jackson’s size trying to barrel into the end zone.
Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury would surely be able to work Jackson into the mix at a spot that remains a work in progress.
Commanders Still Searching for More at Tight End
Three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz is still a catch machine in the middle of the field, but he’s also 34, and there isn’t another credible receiving threat on the depth chart. Last year’s second-round pick Ben Sinnott has yet to deliver in space, although he’s a competent blocker.
Greater expertise muscling defenders off the pile belongs to veteran John Bates. He’s an asset in blocking schemes, but remains limited as a pass-catcher.
The Commanders have room for a dynamic receiving tight end, so filling that role is Jackson’s optimal route to making the final roster. He should have a leg up thanks to entering the pros as an undrafted quarterback who signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2019.
Jackson also played signal-caller for the United Football League’s D.C. Defenders, so he knows what’s expected of those running routes and how to work back to his QB.
Translating exciting athleticism to the play speed of the pro level has been a challenge Jackson hasn’t mastered, but the Commanders offer his best chance yet to stick in the NFL.
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