Success Story Reaves Lands Extension with Washington

From quarterback to punter, the NFL is a game that demands more than individual talent—it thrives on the cohesion and unity of the entire team. From player one to fifty-three, and including every coach on the sidelines, the contribution of each person is vital and cannot be overstated. While offense and defense typically steal the spotlight, it is often special teams that hold the power to dramatically shift the momentum of a game. Though special teams might lack household names like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen, it is nonetheless home to game changers who play pivotal roles. One such dynamic force—and arguably the best in the business at special teams today—is none other than Washington’s Jeremy Reaves.

Jeremy Reaves has carved out a lasting role with the Washington Commanders since initially signing with the team in 2018—a testament to his relentless work ethic, unwavering determination, and dependable availability. His journey has been anything but easy; Reaves had to fight through the uncertainty of roster spots and prove his value continuously. This week, Reaves received confirmation that his perseverance has paid off—he will remain with the Commanders for an extended period. On Wednesday, reports surfaced that Reaves and the Washington Commanders had agreed to a one-year contract extension, keeping him donning the Burgundy & Gold through the 2026 season. The team made the deal official on Thursday, cementing his status as an indispensable part of their special teams unit and organizational culture.

Reaves entered the league as a 2018 undrafted free agent, signing initially with the Philadelphia Eagles before being picked up by Washington’s practice squad later that same year. Over the next four seasons, he endured the rollercoaster ride common to many fringe players—being released, re-added to the practice squad, and elevated to the active roster in a continuous cycle. His patience and grit finally paid dividends when he survived roster cuts ahead of the 2022 season to claim a permanent spot. Today, Jeremy Reaves is much more than a special teams contributor; he is a symbol of tenacity and professionalism, proving that through steadfast commitment, even the most overlooked players can become vital cogs in an NFL team's machinery.