The Washington Commanders were docked two OTA practices this offseason for excessive contact during their 2022 OTAs. As a result, the Commanders headed into the final week of their offseason program with only one OTA practice away from breaking for training camp.
According to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post, the Commanders will have no OTA on Tuesday. Instead, the team will hold a light workout and meetings before ending the offseason program.
Commanders won’t have an OTA day Tues. (would’ve been their last before the break). Coaches felt the offseason went well and was well-attended, and they didn’t want to risk further injury. Players will just have meetings and a light workout Tues. to cap their offseason program.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) June 12, 2023
Training camp begins on July 27.
Due to last offseason’s violations, the Commanders essentially lost a week of OTAs. While head coach Ron Rivera and defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio return, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is installing a new offense, and quarterback Sam Howell needs every rep he can get.
After losing tight end Armani Rogers on the first day of OTAs with an Achilles injury, you can understand Rivera not wanting to risk further injuries.
Washington’s OTAs, which are voluntary, were well attended. Only defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat, and left tackle Charles Leno Jr. did not attend. All three players were present for last week’s mandatory minicamp.