After a long wait, training camp season is almost upon us. And for the Washington Commanders, this is all about kicking on and raising the tempo even higher in the hope of bouncing back in 2026.
That is the minimum requirement, in all honesty.
Fans were completely dejected by the team's capitulation last season. Pressure built quickly as the Commanders came crashing back down to earth. The viability of this ambitious project was called into question, but an impressive offseason by general manager Adam Peters helped calm the doomsayers.
Now, the onus falls on Quinn, his staff, and the players to come together over camp and the preseason. Urgency was high over early workouts, and this must continue in the weeks ahead to stand any chance of being more competitive.
Nothing else will do.
The collective spirit and roster enhancements give the Commanders a fighting chance. If the same trend continues when things turn up another notch over the summer, the Commanders will have a much better platform than they had entering the 2025 campaign.
That doesn't guarantee success, but it sure won't hurt.
On this topic, here are seven Commanders players who could potentially turn training camp into their own personal launchpad for a standout 2026 season.
Washington Commanders who could turn training camp into their own personal launchpad
Odafe Oweh - Commanders OLB
It might be strange to see a free agent signed for $96 million make this list, but the expectations are much different for edge rusher Odafe Oweh in Washington.
Oweh was seen as a rotational pass-rusher over his first five years in the league. He performed exceptionally well after the Baltimore Ravens traded him to the Los Angeles Chargers last season, which was enough for the Commanders to splash the cash. And considering the money involved, Washington will be expecting a three-down game-wrecker capable of becoming one of the league's elite.
That's a lot to ask, so training camp must become a springboard for Oweh to flourish when the real action begins.
There is a lot to like about Oweh's athletic intangibles. He's long, fast, lightning quick off the snap, and relentless in pursuit. Becoming more consistent against the run will help him reach another level, but the aggressive, attack-minded scheme Daronte Jones plans to run works in his favor.
Oweh has the weight of the world on his shoulders. His every move in every game will be scrutinized, which is standard procedure with this sort of price tag. Fans are expecting big things, and a dominant training camp will help put any fears to rest.
Let's hope he can deliver.
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