5 supreme standouts from Commanders 2026 training camp Day 1

Odafe Oweh - Commanders OLB

The Washington Commanders placed a large wager on edge rusher Odafe Oweh this offseason. Adam Peters knew significant investments were needed to improve the team's pass rush, and the 2021 first-round pick was his primary target.

To get the best in free agency, you have to pay. Sometimes, it's above the projected market value, which proved to be the case with Washington and Oweh.

The Penn State product signed a four-year, $96 million deal with a $26 million signing bonus and $68 million guaranteed. This naturally comes with much greater expectations, but Oweh is confident he can meet them.

It's hard not to be impressed by Oweh's size, length, and speed. He's got a unique set of traits that flashed over Day 1 of training camp. And when the pads go on, this is only going to come across further.

Oweh has been a productive situational rusher throughout his career. His 10.5 sacks (including playoffs) for the Los Angeles Chargers last season were enough to convince the Commanders that he is ready to take the next step. Improving against the run will go a long way toward achieving this objective, but he's got the tools to be a significant difference-maker in Daronte Jones' scheme.

Treylon Burks - Commanders WR

Someone has to step up in the Commanders' wide receiver room. Terry McLaurin is confident that one of the fledgling breakout stars or reclamation projects will seize the moment. And if Adam Peters decides not to bring in another dependable pass-catcher before Week 1, they will need to.

It's early days, of course, and there will be plenty of twists and turns to come. However, there was a lot to like about the way Treylon Burks applied himself over the opening day of training camp.

Burks joined the Commanders last season when the Tennessee Titans finally gave up on him. The flashes were enough to get another one-year deal with the franchise, and there is a real opportunity to carve out a significant role within offensive coordinator David Blough's system.

The former Arkansas wideout was among the genuine standouts on Day 1. Burks reportedly made some impressive grabs, including a sensational touchdown catch from quarterback Jayden Daniels during the red-zone portion of practice. There is a long way to go, but this will be another massive confidence boost for the player.

There is no denying Burks' talent and physical attributes. They have always been there, but harnessing them effectively has been the big problem. Even so, it already looks like Blough might have the spark that could ignite better fortunes.

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