Draft 3 is here and the Washington Commanders have picked Jaylin Lane, WR, Virginia Tech in the fourth round of 2025 NFL Draft. This adds another weapon for OC Kliff Kingsbury and QB Jayden Daniels to work with in their second year together. Lane is a short, speedy receiver who is versatile and can make defenders miss. He also has experience returning punts in college, and could take on that role like Jamison Crowder.
RD 4 | PK 128 – Jaylin Lane WR, Virginia Tech
Lane recorded a 4.34-second 40-yard dash, 11-foot broad jump, and a 40-inch vertical at this year’s Scouting Combine, all of which ranked 3rd among wide receivers to workout. His performance in Indy earned himself an NGS athleticism… pic.twitter.com/gLLdNObwsG
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) April 26, 2025
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Jaylin Lane Would Be a Versatile Playmaker for the Commanders
Strengths
- Great straight-line speed, able to stress defenses.
- Weapon versatility (screens, handoffs, etc.)
- Great awareness, able to find soft spots in zone coverage.
- Able to make defenders miss after the catch.
- Natural hands catcher.
- North-South mentality makes him an effective returner.
Weaknesses
- Shorter than average height.
- Too often telegraphs his routes, letting defenders keep up with him.
- Can get bothered by physical corners.
- Willing run blocker but needs to improve technique.
- Needs more route variety (shallow cross, sits, go, and digs).
- Short-area footwork needs work.
How Will He Fit On The Team
The front office made sure to address the wide receiver position over the offseason through retaining their own players and a trade for Deebo Samuel. Even with those acquisitions, Washington could use more long-term depth and speed. Another punt returner wouldn’t hurt either with the departure of Olamide Zaccheaus and Jamison Crowder. Jaylin Lane provides the Commanders another player who can operate as a returner and option in the quick receiving game. Coupled with his breakaway speed and ability to make defenders miss, Lane is a big play waiting to happen. Lane can carve himself a role on the Commanders as a punt returner and a scheme specific receiver.
Washington Commanders 2025 NFL Draft Picks
Round 1 – #29 – Josh Conerly Jr, OT, Oregon
Round 2 – #61 – Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss
Round 4 (via HOU) – #128 – Jaylin Lane, WR, Virginia Tech
Round 6 – #205
Round 7 (from DEN via PHI) – #245
333 votes total Vote Now
