Commanders receiver Van Jefferson in line for bigger role against Rams
The gist
Washington Commanders signed veteran wide receiver Van Jefferson after Terry McLaurin's season-ending knee injury.
With four of seven opening-day receivers out, Jefferson is among the few left.
How it unfolded
- Sep 9, 2026Jefferson did not make the Commanders' 53-man roster but was set to rejoin Washington on the practice squad ahead of the season opener.
- Oct 28, 2026Washington signed Jefferson to the active roster as Terry McLaurin shifted to injured reserve; Jefferson had played one regular-season game, logging three offensive and 13 special-teams snaps in the Week 5 tie with the Giants.
- Nov 3, 2026ESPN's Week 9 power rankings named Jefferson the Falcons' best in-season trade acquisition ever (2023), noting 102 receiving yards on 12 catches in 12 games for Atlanta.
Key terms
- active roster
- A group of players signed by a gridiron football team but not on the main roster, used for practice and player development.
- injured reserve
- A designation in North American pro sports leagues for athletes who are injured and unable to play.
Source: Wikipedia