NFL
The Washington Commanders officially begin training camp with plenty of questions to answer after a disappointing 5-12 finish in 2025.
Injuries, inconsistency, and an eight-game losing streak defined last season, but a new year brings renewed optimism in Ashburn. With quarterback Jayden Daniels healthy, new offensive coordinator David Blough taking over the offense and several key additions on both sides of the ball, the Commanders hope training camp will be the first step toward returning to playoff contention.
Although fans will get their first look at the team when practices open on Aug. 1, the opening days of camp have already provided a glimpse into the storylines that could shape Washington’s 2026 season.
The biggest focus entering camp is Daniels.
After an injury-plagued sophomore campaign, Daniels enters Year 3 healthy and eager to bounce back. The former Offensive Rookie of the Year is learning Blough’s offense, which features more snaps under center and places an emphasis on timing, play action and a balanced attack. Daniels acknowledged earlier this offseason that he’s still learning the system, but teammates and coaches have praised his preparation and leadership throughout the offseason.
Washington is also looking to establish a new identity on offense under Blough. After serving as the team’s assistant quarterbacks coach, Blough was promoted to offensive coordinator following the 2025 season. His familiarity with Daniels has helped ease the transition, and the coaching staff believes the continuity between quarterback and coordinator will be an advantage as the offense continues to develop.
On the other side of the ball, the defense has generated much of the early buzz from training camp.
Multiple reports from the opening practices have highlighted the unit’s ability to create turnovers and play with an aggressive style. Veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas has made an immediate impression after signing with Washington, while the secondary has consistently challenged receivers during team drills. Although it is still early, the defense has looked intent on setting the standard as camp gets underway.
Competition throughout the roster will also be worth monitoring over the coming weeks.
Several positions remain up for grabs, particularly at wide receiver and in the secondary, where veterans, newcomers and younger players are all competing for larger roles. Players such as Treylon Burks and Antonio Williams have already drawn attention during the early stages of camp as they look to carve out a spot on the 53-man roster.
Beyond the competition on the field, there appears to be a renewed sense of urgency throughout the organization. Players have spoken openly about putting last season behind them, and Daniels said entering camp that it is beginning to feel like “his team” as he embraces a larger leadership role. That mindset, combined with a revamped coaching staff and several offseason additions, has created a different atmosphere heading into the 2026 campaign.
Training camp is still in its early stages, and there is plenty of work to be done before Week 1. However, the first few practices have already offered encouraging signs for a team looking to move past last season’s disappointment. As camp continues and preseason games approach, Washington will have the opportunity to turn that early optimism into tangible progress heading into the regular season.
