Sometimes, fans are just too impatient. If a player doesn't stand out immediately or have a defined role as a rookie, they're considered a bust. Last year, it was all about rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels for the Washington Commanders. Cornerback Mike Sainristil also had a terrific rookie season, while offensive tackle Brandon Coleman proved he will be a long-term starter. Defensive tackle Johnny Newton showed flashes, but fellow second-round pick, tight end Ben Sinnott, was mostly invisible.
Before you blame Sinnott, look who was ahead of him. Veteran Zach Ertz started every game for years and looked 10 years younger as one of Daniels' top receiving options. John Bates is arguably the NFL's best blocking tight end, which left Sinnott with sparse playing time.
The Commanders re-signed Ertz and Bates this offseason—not because they're concerned about Sinnott. Bates will continue as the blocking tight end, while Ertz signed a one-year deal to remain Washington's starter. The Commanders will involve Sinnott more in the offense, hoping to see him take some time away from Ertz as the year progresses. Again, that isn't because they don't love Ertz, but because they want to see Sinnott eventually become TE1 and give the veteran rest so he can play another full season.
If what we've seen through two days of minicamp is any indication of what we could see in the fall, Sinnott's development is heading in the right direction.
After Wednesday's practice, Sinnott was asked what a Year 2 Ben Sinnott looks like.
"One that got an offseason, one that is a lot more confident and much more comfortable with....you kind of get thrown into the fire a little bit your rookie year," Sinnott answered. "You're learning your teammates, your coaches, your offense, so going into this year getting a full offseason, getting my body back, knowing the offense and already having that chemistry built. So, just one that is ready to get better and hopefully a big role on this team."
Comfortable and confident. Those words should make Washington coaches happy. It's early, but Sinnott has looked comfortable and confident.
Not every rookie will burst onto the scene like Daniels. Sinnott's continued development is something to watch this summer.
