3 bold predictions for Commanders 2022 training camp

1. Antonio Gibson steals the show

That’s right, folks. By the time training camp is over, Gibson will have established himself as Washington’s top performer on both sides of the ball. There’s something very captivating about betting on players who have something to prove and Gibson, like Jackson, has plenty to prove even after a career year.

For myriad reasons, Gibson’s importance to the offense has flown under the radar this offseason. The contributing factors include Jahan Doton’s dominant spring, Terry McLaurin’s contract extension, the allure behind Carson Wentz, arrival of Brian Robinson Jr. and re-signing of JD McKissic in free agency.

Despite finishing sixth in the league in rushing and compiling 10 total touchdowns, Gibson absolutely grinded this offseason. He lowered his body fat from 18 percent to less than 12 and worked extensively with performance coach Kerry Bennett to improve his ball security after he fumbled six times in 2021.

Make no mistake: that work will reflect itself during camp. That’s not to say other Commanders weren’t hard at work this offseason, but Gibson realizes the upcoming season could determine his future with the franchise.

Expect the 24-year-old to be Washington’s most talked about offensive player not named Carson Wentz for all of the right reasons. He was restricted to the side field Wednesday, but Rivera noted it’s out of precaution after he missed a few practices during the offseason program with a hamstring injury.

As long as he avoids a setback, Gibson will shine at camp.