Eddie Goldman - Commanders DL
There is a growing sense that the defensive line might not be as bad as critics expect this season. A strong display on the first day of padded practices only lent further weight to this notion.
The Washington Commanders' revamped defensive front caught the eye throughout. It wasn't just the top-level guys like Johnny Newton, Javon Kinlaw, and Daron Payne. Others lower down the depth chart also impressed, which is only going to assist their roster hopes or status on the rotation.
Eddie Goldman was among them. The free-agent signing has missed a lot of football in recent years due to retirement and sitting out the COVID campaign, but spending last season with the Atlanta Falcons shook off any rust that remained. The veteran thrives on contact in the middle, absorbing double teams effectively and boasting enough core functional strength to generate push.
This was a big positive for Goldman, who's aiming to make the 53-man roster. That's still not guaranteed, but shining in the physical setting that padded practices bring displayed the athletic credentials he brings to the table.
Dan Quinn loves guys who thrive under the spotlight, so the former second-round pick out of Florida State's efforts won't have gone unnoticed. If Goldman keeps this up, he'll be on the team.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
The pads come on, and focus increases. Everyone locks in and produces an extra bit of effort in pursuit of getting noticed. And it was no shock whatsoever to see quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the charge.
Daniels is the franchise-caliber presence under center that the Commanders have craved for years. His swagger, precision, composure, and work ethic saw him rise to superstardom immediately. Talk about a sophomore slump was rife throughout the offseason, but the dynamic dual-threat is alleviating these fears emphatically.
The former LSU standout is only getting better. Washington's opening padded practice was Daniels' best of camp so far, based on the musings of those in attendance. His accuracy, knowledge of the offense, and ability to get his pass-catchers in stride were among the most positive elements to emerge from his contribution.
While there is no sign of Terry McLaurin on the practice field as he awaits a new deal, Daniels is taking this time to develop cohesion with other wide receivers who'll be tasked with responsibilities in 2025. Everything is going according to plan so far, and this exceptional showing from the signal-caller indicates that an NFL MVP run could be coming if additional improvements arrive.
Daniels hasn't basked in the glory of his rookie accomplishments for long. And it shows.