The Washington Commanders wrapped up their first week of training camp, which included three non-padded practices and a walkthrough session headlined by their first fan day on Saturday, Aug. 1.
It was a thrilling opening week for Washington, highlighted by a dominant defensive performance, continued growth from quarterback Jayden Daniels, impressive showings from the running back and tight end rooms, and a nail-biting kicker competition.
“I would say it’s just a new team,” said Daniels. “Every year is a new year. From my rookie year, second year, to this year, this field has guys [who] bring energy themselves, within their own, on each side of the ball. You have those guys that have been here for a couple years, so you kind of know what [Commanders head coach Dan Quinn] wants…what’s his standard, what he expects from everybody. We push that standard. You got great leaders on both sides of the ball.”
Here’s a look back at week one highlights:
Commanders Kick Off Week 2 of Training Camp With First Padded Practice
After a day off on Sunday, Aug. 2, the Commanders have now turned their attention to the next phase of training camp as a padded practice is the headliner of week two.
The first padded practice took place on Aug. 3, showcasing solid performances from running back Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt, wide receiver Terry McLaurin, tight end Colson Yankoff, wide receiver Jaylin Lane, tight end Chig Okonkwo, and rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams, solidifying them as offensive standouts.
But these performances are nothing short of exciting to kick off the second week of training camp, as the defense has been the camp’s momentum-shifter in every way since week one.
With Washington less than two weeks away from their preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 14, the team is looking to keep building on their healthy competition, team comorbidity, and renewed identity.
“Having an identity for a team is important… But standards and identity of what you wanna be, it has to be established over time and consistently,” said Head Coach Dan Quinn. “And for us, we want our fans and our team and everybody watching us play say, ‘Man, these guys really bring it.’ And so, that’s what we want to establish, but it takes time for that to happen. And I’m looking forward to seeing this team… I’m pumped to see their connection happening quickly already. And that’s a good sign for a coach.”
Here’s a look inside Washington’s first padded practice:
