Tress Way will enter his 12th season as Washington's punter in 2025. Coming off a multi-year contract, Way signed a new one-year deal last month, ensuring his return to the Commanders for another season.
Could Washington be looking for his potential replacement?
According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston, the Commanders will host Navy punter Riley Reithman for their local prospect day this week. Every NFL team has a local pro day, and most of the names aren't released until the day of the event. We do know that Syracuse linebacker Marlowe Wax will participate. Wax is a native of Baltimore and will also participate in the Ravens' local pro day, too.
So, what does Washington's potential interest in Riethman mean?
Honestly, nothing. This is more about the Commanders giving Riethman an opportunity, much like they are with any local college players. It's a spotlight for Riethman. Riethman was an accomplished college punter, though, starting for four years and averaging 44.7 yards per punt for his entire career. In 2024, Riethman broke Navy's single-season record by averaging 45.7 yards per attempt.
Navy @NavyFB punter Riley Riethman invited to #Commanders local prospect day. Academic All-American broke Midshipmen record with 45.7 average @iam_rwjpic.twitter.com/lLozqancWx
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) April 6, 2025
While this is a showcase for Riethman, it also gives Washington a chance to evaluate a potential future Way replacement. If all goes well, the Commanders could look to sign Riethman as an undrafted free agent and stash him on the practice squad.
After Way signed his new contract, he revealed he was OK with going one year at a time at this stage of his career. Way is just happy to be back with the Commanders, where he's beloved by coaches, teammates, and fans.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders invite Navy punter to local pro day
