There was a growing sense among analysts that the Washington Commanders could have a player of promise on their hands with undrafted free agent offensive lineman Timothy McKay. Things are less certain now.
General manager Adam Peters gave him a lofty guarantee to secure his services once the three-day selection event concluded. His physical profile and athletic scope left reasons for encouragement despite the improvements made to the offensive line this offseason. And the Commanders didn't want to miss out after the prospect generated a robust market.
That might still be the case, but a recent insider revelation means it could take a little longer for McKay to firmly establish himself.
Timothy McKay's Commanders' roster hopes in serious jeopardy
Ben Standig from The Athletic provided a less promising outlook regarding McKay that centered on a torn labrum suffered at North Carolina State's pro day. This was a devastating blow, one that the beat writer believes could eventually come with a trip to the physically unable to perform list.
"Two UDFA signings, cornerback Fentrell Cypress and offensive lineman Tim McKay (torn labrum), did not participate. McKay’s injury, suffered at NC State’s pro day, will likely keep the three-year college starter and guard prospect sidelined into training camp, possibly leading to a physically unable to perform designation."
Ben Standig
That would be a dent in McKay's ambitions to carve out a role for himself immediately. However, it wouldn't be the end of his dream if there is enough conviction that his problem won't bring any adverse effects.
The Commanders gave $275,000 guaranteed to McKay — more than he would have received as a sixth-round selection — to get him into the fold. This was despite knowing about his health issue and how long it might take him to get back onto the practice field. That suggests they are willing to play the long game, provided the recovery timeline doesn't suffer any major setbacks.
McKay cannot rush things. He'll be eager to get out there and impress accordingly, but coming back too soon brings a different set of complications. It's a fine line, so handling himself with professionalism is crucial.
Hopefully, everything will go according to plan and McKay can justify his lofty undrafted free agent price tag. But reading between the lines, the jury is still out on that one.
