Washington Commanders tight end Cole Turner is in his third NFL training camp this summer. As a rookie fifth-round pick in 2022, Turner jumped out to a fast start in his first training camp, but an injury ruined things.
Turner returned, but it was too late to make an impact during his rookie season. He appeared in 10 games and caught two passes for 23 yards. A concussion cost Turner more time that season. Turner played in 12 games last season, catching 11 passes for 120 yards.
This offseason, new Washington general manager Adam Peters set out to rebuild the tight end position. The Commanders released Logan Thomas and signed Zach Ertz. Then, Peters would use a second-round pick on Ben Sinnott.
This offseason is now or never for Turner in Washington. One week into training camp, he appears up to the task. During Thursday’s practice, check out this catch Turner made on a throw from quarterback Marcus Mariota.
making plays @KingCole_Turner 👏@Seatgeek | #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/kHhIysebn9
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 1, 2024
These are the types of plays Washington has been wanting from Turner. He is competing with Ertz, Sinnott, John Bates, Armani Rogers and undrafted rookie Colson Yankoff for three or four spots. Ertz, Sinnott and Bates are safe. Turner is likely battling fellow third-year tight end Armani Rogers for a spot on Washington’s 53-man roster.
Turner needs a strong camp to make the team, but if he continues to show his athleticism and playmaking ability, he’ll land somewhere.
