Jaylin Lane Would Be a Versatile Playmaker for the Commanders

Hogs Haven takes a look at 2025 NFL Draft prospects that could contribute to the Commanders

Jaylin Lane, WR
School: Virginia Tech University | Conference: Atlantic Coast Conference
College Experience: Senior | Draft Age: 23 (Week 1)
Height / Weight: 5’10”/ 191 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 5th-6th round

College Statistics

Player Overview

A three-star recruit from Clover HS (SC), Jaylin Lane committed to Middle Tennessee University in 2020. Lane played a total of 30 games (19 starts), accumulating 124 receptions for 1,528 yards and 10 receiving touchdowns. Lane transferred to Virginia Tech University in 2023 where he led the team in receptions his last two seasons. Each conference, Jaylin accumulated all-team honors and was a Senior Bowl participant where he impressed scouts in 1-on-1 workouts.

Jaylin profiles as a versatile weapon from the slot position who can make a difference primarily as a returner and a receiver. Jaylin has been used in different alignments and plays, taking handoffs, screens, and occasional deep throws. His best attributes are his hands, sudden speed, and the ability to elude defenders after the catch. He is also an effective returner, scoring a return touchdown with both universities, and leading the conference in punt return yards (2021, 2024) However, Jaylin can improve on the more technical aspects of the position. Jaylin needs work selling his routes, as it gives defenders a way to keep up with him. Additionally, Jaylin needs better footwork at the top of the routes to gain separation.

Jaylin’s path to the NFL will be dependent on his immediate contributions as a returner and his improvement as a route runner. Jaylin has the speed, athleticism, and natural catching ability to be a receiver if the rest improves. Jaylin Lane projects to be Day 3 selection as a depth slot receiver and returner.

Awards & Recognition:

• First-Team All-Conference USA (2021)
• Second-Team All-Conference USA (2022)
• Third-Team All ACC (2024)
• Senior Bowl Participant (2024)

Metrics

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.

Let’s See His Work

Interviews

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.