The Washington Commanders have added running back Michael Wiley to their roster, signing him to a reserve/futures contract as they begin shaping their squad for the upcoming season. Wiley, a former standout at the University of Arizona, will now have the opportunity to develop within the organization and compete for a spot on the team’s active roster in 2025.
What Is a Reserve/Futures Contract?
A reserve/futures contract is a deal typically given to young players or those looking to establish themselves in the NFL. These contracts are signed before the league year officially begins and allow teams to retain players for offseason workouts, training camp, and preseason games. While these players are not immediately part of the active 53-man roster, they have the chance to earn a spot through strong performances in offseason programs and training camp.
Michael Wiley’s Background
Wiley played college football at Arizona, where he was a key contributor to the Wildcats’ offense. Throughout his college career, he displayed versatility as both a rusher and receiver, making him an intriguing prospect for the Commanders. At Arizona, Wiley rushed for over 2,000 yards and added significant contributions in the passing game, showcasing his ability to be a dual-threat weapon.
One of Wiley’s standout attributes is his ability to catch passes out of the backfield, making him a valuable option in modern NFL offenses that emphasize versatility at the running back position. His skill set could make him a fit for Eric Bieniemy’s offensive system, which has traditionally utilized running backs as pass-catching threats.
Washington’s Running Back Depth Chart
The Commanders currently have a mix of experience and youth at the running back position. Brian Robinson Jr. has established himself as the team’s lead back, while Antonio Gibson has been used in a complementary role, particularly in passing situations. Adding Wiley provides depth and competition at the position, which is crucial as teams look to build a strong and balanced offensive unit.
With the Commanders undergoing changes, including the hiring of a new head coach and front office personnel, Wiley will have a fresh opportunity to make an impression. If he performs well in offseason workouts and training camp, he could secure a role on the practice squad or even push for a roster spot.
What’s Next for Wiley?
While a reserve/futures contract does not guarantee a place on the final roster, it allows Wiley to stay with the team and develop his skills within the system. His ability to contribute in multiple ways could help his case as the Commanders evaluate their running back depth heading into the next season.
For now, Wiley’s focus will be on offseason training, mini-camps, and preseason opportunities, where he will need to prove his value and compete against other running backs for a spot on the roster. If he can make an impression on the coaching staff, he could find himself playing a role in Washington’s backfield in the future.
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