There was an enormous sense of anticipation in the air as the Washington Commanders participated in their first padded practice of training camp. And there was the bonus of having fans in attendance for the second straight day.
Getting the pads on raises urgency and increases physicality. There is more aggression during drills, and head coach Dan Quinn gets a good look at what his newcomers can do in a more aggressive environment.
The Commanders gave several veterans the day off. They already know what the likes of Laremy Tunsil, Marshon Lattimore, Von Miller, and Zach Ertz can do when it comes to the crunch. However, this was a chance for those looking to make the team or get prominent roles to lay down a marker.
Quinn and his accomplished staff will have gained a significant amount from the session. This roster isn't quite the finished product just yet, but everything is going according to plan. That should serve the Commanders well with upcoming challenges such as joint practices and preseason games on the not-too-distant horizon.
Before then, here are five Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger during the team's first padded practice of training camp.
Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger on first padded practice of camp
Johnny Newton - Commanders DL
Much has been made about the Washington Commanders' spending big money on Javon Kinlaw in free agency. Daron Payne has been lauded throughout the offseason as he propels himself into a leadership role without Jonathan Allen to depend upon. But don't forget about 2024 second-round selection Johnny Newton, either.
Newton was the Commanders' choice at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. The interior defensive lineman flashed moments of genuine quality last season without matching this with the correct consistency. Those in power believe that more is on the way with a better run of luck on the health front this offseason.
The former Illinois standout missed crucial time over his initial development after foot surgeries. Things are going much better for Newton this time around, and he showcased his progress to full effect during the opening padded practice of training camp.
Washington's offensive line had a hard time generating push versus the defensive interior. Newton's improved strength and technical prowess were good reasons why. There was also a lot to like about the way he blew up a screen, which indicates that the game is slowing down for the player in Year 2.
The Commanders need more from their defensive front in 2025. Newton is on the right track to provide it.