As the Commanders’ training camp continues, the intensity and focus on honing critical skills have become palpable. With six practices in the books and the third session with fans in attendance, the camp is shaping up to be a crucial period for the team, especially with the emphasis on red-zone efficiency and full-pad practices.
Quarterback Competition Heats Up
One of the main storylines from the camp has been the quarterback situation. Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota are splitting first-team reps, each battling to secure the starting role. Daniels showcased his arm talent in 11-on-11 sessions, connecting with Olamide Zaccheaus on a deep pass up the right sideline, a glimpse of his potential to stretch the field. He further impressed by making precise throws to key targets like Jahan Dotson and Terry McLaurin.
However, Daniels' performance was not without its hiccups. He experienced a fumbled handoff with Jeremy McNichols and a streak of missed passes, highlighting areas for continued improvement. His resilience showed in the final team session, where he capped his day by completing a touchdown pass to Zach Ertz, illustrating his ability to bounce back and lead the offense.
Standout Performers
Jahan Dotson has become one of the most reliable players in camp. His consistency garnered attention, and he attributes his success to increasing comfort and speed on the field. "I feel like I'm just getting more comfortable, and that's enabling me to play faster and faster. That's been a big emphasis for me," Dotson commented, reflecting on his development and approach.
Brandon Coleman demonstrated versatility by playing both with the first and second teams at left and right tackle. Facing off against seasoned veterans like Dorance Armstrong Jr., Dante Fowler Jr., and Clelin Ferrell, Coleman is keenly aware of the challenges ahead. He noted, "There's always like three points in my brain that I'm telling myself in the next period if I didn't do it well. Like today, it was my hands were pretty bad in the first period. I was like, 'Work on my hands, work on my balance, keep my chest up.'"
Coleman also emphasized the learning curve from college to the pros, particularly in dealing with defensive linemen's advanced techniques. "D-linemen in the league have a bunch of secondary and third moves. Their knowledge of what o-linemen do is so vast compared to college... That's stuff that I just have to engrain in my brain, like shit’s not over until the whistle blows," he shared, indicating his determination to adapt and excel.
Defensive Standouts
On the defensive side, Mike Sainristil has been a standout, maintaining a constant presence among the starters and contributing to the return game. His relentless effort on the field is evident, and he described his play style succinctly: "Part of it is just my play style. I'm a guy that's gonna go hard until the whistle's blown. And then the second part of it is just getting myself to make that second nature for me, so that when it comes game time, I don’t even have to think about stuff like that."
Jer'Zhan Newton, another defensive asset, had his first taste of first-team reps during this camp. His impact was immediate, forcing a cutback from McNichols on a play, demonstrating his potential to disrupt opposing offenses.
K.J. Henry and Javontae Jean-Baptiste have also made significant contributions, reinforcing the depth and talent on the defensive line during the practice sessions.
Special Teams Precision
Kicker Ramiz Ahmed provided a bright spot in special teams, exhibiting flawless accuracy during the team portion of Tuesday’s practice. Ahmed made field goals from as far as 51 yards with distance to spare, solidifying his reliability and confidence heading into the season.
As the Commanders’ training camp progresses, the blend of veteran savvy and emerging talent offers a promising outlook. The upcoming practices will continue to shape the roster and refine the strategies that could dictate the team’s success in the approaching season.