The Washington Commanders were in pads for Day 10 of training camp, which was the ninth practice with either fans or the media in attendance. And even though left tackle Laremy Tunsil's long-term injury cast a somber mood over the session, it was inevitably back to the business at hand.
Injuries happen. The Commanders found out more about that than any other team last season. Losing Tunsil is a blow, given he is arguably their best overall player. But this cannot become the catastrophe most in the media are predicting.
It's next man up, and that's the way it's always been in this cutthroat business.
The Commanders have to focus on the task at hand. They have no choice. Things are heating up, with joint practice scheduled on Wednesday with the Miami Dolphins before their first preseason clash against the AFC East club on Friday.
This will be the strongest measuring stick about where this squad is and what more may be required. However, general manager Adam Peters has the cash available if additional reinforcements are needed.
Not having an elite-level performer like Tunsil to depend upon is disappointing, but the Commanders have to roll with the punches. And even with such disappointing news, the players are still shining in the camp pressure cooker.
With this in mind, here are five players who stood out on Day 10 of training camp in Ashburn.
Supreme standouts from Washington Commanders 2026 training camp Day 10
Daron Payne - Commanders DL
The Commanders stood pat with Daron Payne this offseason. They didn't explore trade offers or consider releasing the experienced defensive lineman. They also didn't offer him an extension before it's due, making this a contract year.
Payne accepted the situation for what it is. The Commanders are making him earn another payday, and it's bringing a positive response so far. He's putting together an outstanding camp, generating constant push in the trenches while also growing into a genuine leadership role for good measure.
Here’s a quick look at DT Daron Payne from today’s training camp practice pic.twitter.com/t86j4VaR71
— Skylar Nelson (@SkyMad03) August 10, 2026
Obviously, this is nothing new.
Fans saw how Payne performed the last time he was in a contract year, the only time he's ever made the Pro Bowl after gaining 11.5 sacks. Asking him to reach similar heights again is unrealistic, but working within a 3-4 defensive front looks much better suited to his strengths.
Having Payne focused and firing on all cylinders is going to make a significant difference. He knows the magnitude of the situation, and there are millions of dollars at stake.
A new deal will be based on the performance levels throughout the new season and the contract demands. But the renewed purpose Payne has displayed over camp represents a solid foundation from which to build.
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