There is an air of doom and gloom around the Washington Commanders. And not for the first time over the last year, it's down to injuries.
Day 13 of training camp brought even more concern for fans. Backup defensive lineman Johnny Newton, whom head coach Dan Quinn was expecting big things from this season, suffered a torn pectoral and underwent surgery. This will leave him on the shelf for a considerable period, and it may even be the end of his time in Washington.
Perhaps more concerning was the fact that starting center Nick Allegretti left practice early once again. He's working his way back from a calf strain, and if the Illinois product has reaggravated it, that is a big problem for the Commanders.
Several other established veterans sat out with knocks, but the Commanders are taking every possible precaution at this stage of preparations. After how things went on the health front last season, it's the correct approach.
This was the final session with fans in attendance, so the vibes were high in the stands. The Commanders were in pads, and the intensity was notable. And as always, a few players stood out more than others.
With this in mind, here are seven supreme standouts from Day 13 of Commanders training camp as preparations for their preseason trip to the Detroit Lions gather pace.
Supreme standouts from Washington Commanders 2026 training camp Day 13
Tyler Owens - Commanders DB
Tyler Owens has always had elite-level athleticism. The Commanders have utilized him primarily on special teams over the first two years of his professional career, but there are growing signs that this could change under new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.
It's been evident throughout training camp that Jones is trying to find ways to get Owens onto the field. He's being used as a box safety, big nickel cornerback, and even across the linebacker positions within the new 3-4 front. This is bringing a positive response from the Texas Tech product, who looks ready to make a much bigger impact this season.
Daronte Jones must LOVE Tyler Owens, he's using him all over the field.
— Deuce_Redzone (@redzoneinthelab) August 19, 2026
I've seen him come off the edge a few times during these camp sessions.
Just where Owens fits into the dynamic remains to be seen.
His consistency was often lacking when given chances on the defensive rotation, but Jones might just have the key to unlock his true potential. And the speed being displayed on blitzes is precisely what the rookie NFL play-caller needs to see.
It remains a precarious situation for Owens. But the positive signs are difficult to ignore.
Obviously, getting it done when things matter more will be Owens' biggest measuring stick, especially in a contract year. However, there could be a role for him to play if his training camp usage is any indication.
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