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5 tryout players to watch at Commanders' rookie minicamp

The Washington Commanders‘ rookie minicamp began on Friday, marking the first time we’d see the incoming rookie class in the burgundy and gold.

First, here’s wide receiver Jaylin Lane in action:

Here’s a look at first-round Josh Conerly Jr. in burgundy and gold for the first time:

In addition to Washington’s five draft picks and 10 undrafted free-agent signings, the Commanders invited 21 players to the rookie minicamp. These players will compete for a chance to be signed and join Washington’s 90-man roster.

Here’s the list of 21 players, via Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post:

There are some interesting names on this list. Yes, Nathan Peterman is in town, but don’t expect him to earn a spot on the 90-man roster. The former 2027 fifth-round pick is an eight-year veteran, but Washington has Jayden Daniels, Marcus Mariota, Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman on the 90-man roster.

Here are a few names we found the most interesting:

S Gabe Taylor

This one is for obvious reasons. Sean Taylor’s younger brother is already a fan favorite, and everyone is rooting for him. But that should not overshadow Taylor’s talents. He had a solid career at Rice, improving each season, and tested well at Rice’s pro day. Washington has some depth issues at safety, and an impressive weekend could help Taylor earn a chance this summer.

WR Dorian Anderson

Anderson is a small-school prospect with outstanding size. He stands 6-foot-7 and weighs 200 pounds, so he’s thin. However, Anderson can box out defenders for jump balls and is an impressive route runner. The Commanders could use a big wide receiver. Noah Brown is the only rostered wide receiver who fits that bill, and he’s 6-foot-2. Play strength is something to watch with Anderson, but he could battle Ja’Corey Brooks for a spot on the practice squad.

LB Xander Mueller

Mueller was a highly productive player in the Big Ten. He has solid size (6-foot-3, 232) and tested above average (4.6 40-yard dash). The Commanders could use linebacker depth, and Mueller is a name to keep an eye on. Another thing that could help Mueller is that he’s considered an excellent leader. That matters to GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn. He can also fill in as a long snapper.

OL Tyre Phillips

A third-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft, Phillips began his career with the Ravens and has also spent time with the Giants and Eagles. While he’s struggled to live up to his draft status, Phillips is still only 28 and could be a potential depth signing for Washington. You can never have too many offensive tackles.

TE Maliq Carr

Carr has tremendous size, is a good athlete and is not afraid to mix it up as a blocker. It was a bit surprising that he wasn’t drafted. He could be a gem if you find the right team/coaching staff with the time to develop Carr. Something to note, he’s a former basketball player. There is talent here. We’ll leave you with the following highlight:

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 5 tryout players to know at Commanders’ rookie minicamp

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