Football is back, and the Washington Commanders are embarking on their most crucial part of preparations for the 2025 campaign at training camp.
Excitement hasn't been higher where the Commanders are concerned, at least for the last two decades if not more. Dan Quinn led his team on a truly remarkable run to the NFC Championship game last time around. But for this incredible early success to be sustained, everyone must turn the page accordingly.
Looking at the mentality in the locker room, there's nothing for fans to worry about on that front. There is a strong will to win and go one better. Every player, whether they're an established franchise cornerstone or an undrafted rookie looking to make their way, is on the same page. And they will have no problem calling out their teammates if standards are slipping.
Terry McLaurin's absence as he awaits a new contract was the only lingering cloud hanging over the franchise. The wide receiver is taking a stand, and the Commanders haven't budged as yet. But given the player's professionalism and team-first mindset, he'll be ready to hit the ground running upon rejoining his teammates.
Until then, others will be tasked with picking up the slack. With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger on Day 1 of training camp.
Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger on strong Day 1 of camp
Von Miller - Commanders DE/OLB
Fans were pleading for general manager Adam Peters to sign another edge rusher before the season. They were starting to panic, but those in power always had one primary option in mind.
The Washington Commanders signed future Pro Football Hall of Fame pass-rusher Von Miller on a one-year deal. He's firmly in the tail-end of his career, and the former No. 2 pick out of Texas A&M is far from the force of old, but there's a growing sense he can make an impact for Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive front, albeit in the short term.
Miller, who is wearing No. 24 in Washington to honor close friend Champ Bailey and the late Kobe Bryant, left a positive impression on Day 1. There is a natural aura about the player that others naturally gravitate towards. And given the accomplishments he's accumulated throughout a glittering career, the respect he commanded was instant.
A look at the future HOF Von Miller, for the first time in Burgundy and Gold. pic.twitter.com/TCDJgpi7iI
— Skylar Nelson (@SkyMad03) July 23, 2025
The Commanders won't task Miller with too much. Dan Quinn and his staff know he'll be ready when the time comes, so they can take things slowly and keep complications to a minimum. However, there was enough to suggest he can impact proceedings in some capacity.