The Washington Commanders were back on the practice field Tuesday with fans in attendance. It was also the first time in training camp that the Commanders had on pads.
When the pads come on, it gives those looking to make an impression a chance to shine. It’s also the first time you can see the running game in camp.
For the Commanders, we could finally see if the offensive line could block the defensive line. It’s been an unfair matchup early in camp, but there were no pads.
Here are some notes and observations from Day 6.
Progress
We’re getting close to the end of practice, and I will say the offense has looked better today than it has in the past few practices
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 1, 2023
As we’ve said all along, the defense was always going to be ahead of the offense. For one, Washington’s defense was a top-five unit by some metrics in 2022. Additionally, the Commanders have a second-year quarterback and a new offensive coordinator, installing a new offense.
The defensive line has had its way with the offensive line through the first week of camp. However, on Tuesday, the offensive line closed the gap a bit with a better practice. No, they weren’t necessarily better than the defensive line, but on more than one occasion, held their own. Guard Sam Cosmi and center Nick Gates were among those who stood out.
Commanders doing one-on-one pass protection. Chase and Jon Allen looked impressive with wins over Leno and Saahdiq. On the offensive side, Gates and Cosmi got win. Was impressed with Cosmi’s ability to mirror Payne when he tried cutting back to the quarterback
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 1, 2023
Better day for Sam Howell
Sam Howell with another 3rd down conversion to Jahan Dotson #HTTC pic.twitter.com/3xbPzifxHX
— Mason Kinnahan (@Mason_Kinnahan) August 1, 2023
An encouraging day for quarterback Sam Howell. The second-year passer made some excellent throws, including the one above to Jahan Dotson. Howell also hooked up with Terry McLaurin on more than one occasion. What was encouraging about the completion to Dotson was Bieniemy had Howell roll out on third down and throw on the run. That’s a strength for Howell.
Punt return update
Players catching punts during special teams drills: Dotson, Kaz Allen and Milne
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 1, 2023
No surprises here. It’s difficult to imagine that Washington makes Dotson the full-time punt returner; he’s too important to the offense. Milne returned punts last season with little success. Kazmeir Allen is the undrafted rookie who head coach Ron Rivera has praised on multiple occasions. If Allen can impress in this area, he should make the team.
Kick returner update
Washington is working on kick off returns this morning. Players participating:
– Antonio Gibson
– Dax Milne
– Jahan Dotson
– Danny Johnson
– Byron Pringle— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) August 1, 2023
Antonio Gibson did a good job returning kicks — when he had the opportunity. And Gibson enjoys it. Milne and Johnson have also returned kicks for Washington. Gibson should be the leader here.
Dyami Brown continues to shine
Dyami Brown with a nice rep vs. BSJ. Good over the shoulder ball from Howell. #HTTC pic.twitter.com/dAjUuYPkkf
— Jamual (@LetMualTellit) August 1, 2023
It seems like we’ve written a lot about wide receiver Dyami Brown early in camp. Brown had another standout day Tuesday. Here he is, working against fellow 2021 third-round pick Benjamin St-Juste. Excellent separation from Brown and a good throw. Brown won multiple 1-on-1s Tuesday. By the way, St-Juste is also having an excellent camp.
Undrafted rookie stands out
Man..Mason Brooks just ate Phidarian Mathis for lunch on two consecutive reps. #Commanders
— Chris Russell AKA the 🐓🐓! (@Russellmania621) August 1, 2023
Raise your hand if you expected an undrafted offensive lineman to stand out on Day 1 in pads. Brooks played four years at Western Kentucky, where he blossomed into a first-team Conference USA selection. He transferred to Ole Miss for his final season, where he played in every game for the Rebels. Brooks was a priority free agent for the Commanders, as he had several NFL teams interested.
On the first day in pads, Brooks stood up second-year defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis not once but twice. It had his coach and teammates fired up.
JUAN CASTILLO IS SO HYPE OVER MASON BROOKS RIGHT NOW.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) August 1, 2023
The preseason will be key for Brooks, but that’s a great start.
