Former Redskins and Jets receiver Jamison Crowder is looking forward to Saturday’s preseason opener for the Commanders.
Crowder, drafted out of Duke by Washington in 2015 (105 overall), spent his first four seasons (2015-18) with the Redskins before moving over to the Jets for three seasons (2019-21).
Now age 31, Crowder is trying to make an impression on the new coaching staff, working hard to make the 53-man roster this season.
Having Joe Gibbs and Darrell Green at training camp practice Tuesday was inspiring for Crowder. “It was great to have greats like that who have come through this league and done great things in other areas of life. It was great to have them come out here and talk to the team. You got to take something from what they say and try to apply it to my life. I hope the other guys do that as well.”
New owner Josh Harris is certainly spending money, trying to upgrade facilities to help his players. Crowder noted the AstroTurf field that sat there useless for years, but was recently torn up and moved out by Harris. “I obviously see the changes they are trying to make around here, and now we will be able to better utilize that field…I think it is for the better.”
A successful preseason opener Saturday for Crowder, he says, would be to make a good showing, execute, and avoid injuries. Crowder is fully aware that Adam Peters has drafted Luke McCaffrey, brought back Kazmeir Allen, Brycen Tremayne, and Byron Pringle, and signed Olamide Zaccheaus and undrafted Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint.
Peters also signed free agent receiver Damiere Byrd. However, he and Dax Milne have already been waived. Dyami Brown has disappointed and is in his fourth training camp with Washington. Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson are clearly the starters.
Crowder last season played in all 17 games, catching 16 passes for 159 yards (9.9 YPR) one touchdown and eight first downs. He was also the primary punt returner (35-278, 7.9 (YPR). His biggest play of the season was a 61-yard punt return in Atlanta against the Falcons.