One week before the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, two former Virginia Tech players, running back Bhayshul Tuten and wide receiver Jaylin Lane, were tabbed a x-factors that would be on the board for teams to pick. It took some time for both players to hear their names called.
Tuten was picked first on Saturday by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth round, and later in that round, the Washington Commanders picked Lane with the 128th pick. His selection gives the Commanders' offense and special teams a playmaker.
Caught a big-time talent @j_lane_2
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) April 26, 2025
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The Washington Commanders pick up an absolute gem with Virginia Tech WR Jaylin Lane
One reason why Lane was listed as an x-factor was because of his speed and kick return abilities. That was on display last season when he returned punts for Virginia Tech after they lost Tucker Holloway to an injury. In a game in Week 2 against Marshall, he returned a punt for a touchdown on the final play of the first quarter, and he showcased his speed by breaking tackles and getting to the end zone.
Not only can he make plays returning kicks, a hole that Washington has, but his explosive breakaway speed was on display last season with his ability to break tackles and run away from defenders before he could be brought down. Let's not ignore his ability to run by defenders and get open downfield like he did against Virginia Thanksgiving Weekend.
Lane is someone who is going to fit in fine with Commanders and make an impact as early as this upcoming season. Virginia Tech fans saw what he was capable of the last two seasons and he'll have even more success in the NFL with his speed and ability to make big plays.