After a bedding-in period to start training camp, there was a different feeling in the air on Day 5. It was time to put the pads on, and Washington Commanders fans were once again in attendance to see things get a lot more physical.
Pads always bring an extra sense of intensity. It was a time for the trench players to shine, and the ground game to showcase what it might be capable of when the regular season arrives. There was a lot to unpack, but the cream is definitely starting to rise to the top.
Of course, there are always a few surprises.
The Commanders need everyone to reach or exceed expectations for a 2026 bounce-back, and things are proceeding as planned. More importantly, Washington has avoided any new injuries to key personnel, which represents a refreshing change of pace from last season.
Head coach Dan Quinn wanted to see the players take things up a notch. He got his wish, and this was also the strongest measuring stick yet for Washington's roster evaluations.
Those decisions are still a way off. But for now, here are six supreme standouts from Day 5 of Commanders training camp in Ashburn.
Supreme standouts from Washington Commanders 2026 training camp Day 5
Julian Good-Jones - Commanders OL
There are concerns about the center position. Washington is without Nick Allegretti right now, and the signing of Trey Hill hinted that the coaching staff was not entirely satisfied with the backup options. But when the pads came on, things started to take a positive turn.
Julian Good-Jones is under the microscope more than most. He's struggled to find any rhythm overall, but according to the reports emanating from the first padded practice, this was a much better day for the veteran.
OL won the day in 1on1’s w/ DL - Julian Good Jones is having a good day in pads
— Mitchell Tischler (@Mitch_Tischler) August 3, 2026
This was a positive step for Good-Jones, and being more physical brought out the best in him. There is still a long way to go to improve his chances of making the 53-man roster, but a strong preseason would get him a lot closer.
Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR
The vibes are different this summer. Terry McLaurin's presence is a big reason why.
McLaurin is an inspirational leader. He's someone everyone looks to for advice and motivation, and he takes that responsibility seriously. Last offseason was significantly disrupted by a contract holdout that went much longer than anticipated, which was followed by an injury-hit campaign from the wideout that played a leading role in the team's demise.
Terry McLaurin already in mid-season shape. Putting on a show today pic.twitter.com/7UVanzSMcy
— brady (@burgermanders) August 3, 2026
Things look a lot more promising now. McLaurin looks sharp, in sync with quarterback Jayden Daniels, and he's making the impressive seem routine. The former Ohio State standout looks the part, and he's driving everyone forward with his customary leadership and determination. Fans were expecting nothing less from the franchise cornerstone.
McLaurin looks in midseason form already. And if he can stay healthy, a major bounce-back season awaits.
Add us as a preferred source on Google