We have waived WR Jamal Agnew with a failed physical
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) December 23, 2025
The Washington Commanders didn’t wait long to replace rookie wide receiver Jaylin Lane on the 53-man roster. Shortly after placing Lane on injured reserve after he suffered an ankle injury in Saturday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Commanders signed veteran receiver/returner Jamal Agnew.
Agnew, a former Pro Bowl and All-Pro returner, was recently waived by the Atlanta Falcons. He would immediately fill Lane’s role as punt returner and could also return kickoffs.
The Commanders waived Agnew on Tuesday due to a failed physical.
Washington has yet to announce another move, but it could look to the practice squad to fill Lane’s spot. As for who will return punts, the Commanders could turn to veteran receiver Chris Moore or cornerback Mike Sainristil. Of the three receivers on Washington’s practice squad, two are veterans — Robbie Chosen and River Cracraft. Undrafted rookie Jacoby Jones was elevated for a game earlier this season and made an impressive catch and run late in the game.
Lane is among the NFL leaders in punt returns, averaging almost 14 yards per return. He returned two for touchdowns. Wide receiver Luke McCaffrey was among the NFL’s leaders in kickoff returns until his injury in Week 9.