The Washington Commanders are undergoing a palpable transformation this training camp and preseason. With new faces among players and a nearly entirely revamped coaching staff, the team is poised for significant changes. Leading the charge is new head coach Dan Quinn, who, alongside new offensive and defensive coordinators, has embraced a fresh practice structure and overhauled the logistics of player accommodations.
A New Era Under Dan Quinn
Dan Quinn has introduced "Tell the Truth Monday," an initiative launched just two days after the Commanders' narrow 20-17 preseason loss to the Jets. This endeavor focuses on a thorough review of both successes and areas needing improvement. "It was good to tell the truth Monday—this is what we learned, this is what we need to do heading into this week," Quinn stated, emphasizing the importance of honest assessments in the team's growth. He further urged his players, "Don't harden your heart to the corrections."
Rookies Making an Impact
One of the highlights from the loss to the Jets was the performance of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Even though Daniels played just one drive, he made it count. He led an audible resulting in a 42-yard pass to Dyami Brown, capping the series with a 3-yard touchdown run. Rookie Ben Sinnott also showcased his skills with three receptions for 57 yards.
Sinnott acknowledged the mix of positives and learning opportunities emerging from the game: "We still got a lot of stuff to improve on. I think the big thing that we kind of heard—the 'truth'—just being able to finish that game, make the plays that we need. We had a three-and-out, penalty on our last drive to go and take the lead, so just things we need to clean up, pre-snap errors, that kind of stuff that we can clean up and hopefully take our game to the next level."
Injuries and Adjustments
Several players were sidelined due to injuries during the preseason matchup against the Jets. Tackles Brandon Coleman (shoulder/pectoral), Andrew Wylie (tightness), and Cornelius Lucas (personal) did not play, necessitating that six different players line up at tackle, including Mason Brooks, Chris Paul, and Braeden Daniels. Brooks played 34 of his team-high 53 snaps at left tackle.
Further compounding the injury woes are rookies Johnny Newton (foot), Jordan Magee (knee), and Sam Hartman (shoulder), who are all dealing with different injuries. Newton and Magee, however, are anticipated to contribute sooner rather than later, offering some hope amidst the adversities.
Learning and Growing
The Commanders' journey through this preseason reflects a broader narrative of adaptation and perseverance. "You just have to take things in stride the best that you can. When you're working in uncharted or new territory, there's a lot of new experiences for you to have. I think the important thing is just to keep moving forward the best that you can," noted Mason Brooks, encapsulating the spirit of resilience that Quinn aims to instill in the team.
"Tell the Truth" sessions have revealed both commendable performances and critical areas for improvement. As Quinn summarized, "Tell the Truth is good and bad. There's high points—like your rookie quarterback making a check like that—and there's low points, like guys missing assignments and coming up short. Obviously when you don't win the game, it's a little bit more serious of a 'Tell the Truth Monday' than if you come out with a win."
The preseason becomes a crucible for the Commanders, testing their mettle and readiness for the upcoming challenges. The team’s ability to internalize lessons from these sessions and translate them into on-field success will be crucial as they prepare for the regular season. This period of transformation for the Washington Commanders is not merely about new strategies or tactics but about fostering a culture of continuous improvement and unyielding spirit.