ASHBURN, Va. (7News) — With the NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, the attention shifts to the Washington Commanders’ rookie minicamp.
Friday is the day when media members will have the opportunity to see this new crop of rookies in Burgundy and Gold.
Compared to past seasons, it’s a relatively small draft class—Washington has only five picks. However, several undrafted rookie free agents will be invited to team headquarters in Ashburn to try out for the team.
Friday’s spotlight will be on Washington’s first-round pick, Josh Conerly Jr. The Oregon offensive tackle should be a difference maker on this Commanders’ offensive line.
“The number one thing you have to do is protect Jayden Daniels,” ESPN’s John Keim told 7News Sports Director Scott Abraham. “In theory, on paper, you now give Jayden more time to do what he does very well and that’s throw the football down the field. I think it just adds another element to the offense. I also think it can improve the run game.”
Gabriel Taylor, the younger brother of late Washington safety Sean Taylor, will also attend the Commanders’ rookie minicamp.
Taylor reportedly received multiple offers, but decided to head to the nation’s capital, where his older brother played for four seasons until he died in 2007.
After playing five seasons as a safety for the Rice Owls, Taylor declared for the 2025 NFL Draft and went undrafted. It didn’t take long for Washington to extend the invitation to Taylor to attend mini-camp.
“There’s a deep connection with the Taylor family and this franchise. It’s one that has remained strong over the years,” Keim said. “They are giving him a shot and that’s all you can ask if you’re in his shoes.”
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn will speak to reporters before practice on Friday. The rookies are scheduled to hit the field around 1:15 pm in Ashburn.
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