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Surprise Commanders offensive player turns heads during practice

Washington Commanders tight end Colson Yankoff impresses at minicamp making a big play.
Logan Robinson, Joanne Coley|
Nov 10, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn looks on from the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Nov 10, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn looks on from the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images | Amber Searls-Imagn Images

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Washington Commanders

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters had a feeling when he chose to keep the team’s tight ends this offseason. No trades, no significant additions—and it looks like his instincts might be right and could pay off this season.

The Commanders tight-end group has been one of the franchise’s most consistent units. Zach Ertz made big plays last season, catching everything thrown his way. John Bates wasn’t just a tight end; he was a reliable blocker. And while Ben Sinnott didn’t get a lot of snaps, he’s looking to change that this year and take a big step forward.

But a name that’s starting to emerge quietly on the offense is Colson Yankoff.

READ MORE: Commanders sign fan favorite to one-year contract extension

Coming in as an undrafted free agent, Yankoff wasn’t on anybody’s radar last year. He didn’t play a whole lot, but his hard work, consistency, and growth have helped build trust with the coaching staff.

So far, during OTAs, Yankoff has stood out, and he’s sending a clear message that he’s been putting in the work. Right now, he’s the fourth tight end on the roster. If the Commanders decide to keep fewer tight ends this year, making those cuts could be tough. But Yankoff is showing that he’s worth keeping around.

It’s still early, and training camp is just around the corner, but Yankoff is off to a strong start. Fans should keep an eye on him because he might earn himself a bigger role this season.

READ MORE: Don't count out Commanders' Jayden Daniels winning MVP

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.

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Logan Robinson
LOGAN ROBINSON

Logan Robinson is the owner and founder of Gameday Media, covering the NFL, NBA, MMA, and NCAA sports. A graduate of Florida State University with a focus on entrepreneurship, Robinson has been part of the On SI network since joining in 2021.

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Joane Coley
JOANNE COLEY

Joanne Coley, from Prince George’s County, MD, is a communications professional passionate about storytelling and sports. She holds a bachelor’s in Communications from Kent State University and a Master’s in Communications/Public Relations from Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2018, she has served as Communications Manager at the Council of the Great City Schools. A foodie and traveler, Joanne is also a former state champion in high school shotput and standout athlete in softball.

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