4 critical observations from Commanders 2023 mandatory minicamp Day 2
By Dean Jones
What were some critical observations from Day 2 of the Washington Commanders' mandatory minicamp as preparations continue for the 2023 season?
After an intriguing practice full of incidents, special guests, and high tempo, the Washington Commanders got back down to business for their second day of mandatory minicamp on Wednesday. Another small building block during what will hopefully be a preparation period full of encouragement for the new campaign.
Everyone associated with the Commanders is eagerly awaiting news of the meeting between Josh Harris, Mitchell Rales, and the NFL's finance committee in New York, which could speed along the sale approval process. But as has been the case for Ron Rivera throughout the offseason, focusing on Washington's football business is all that matters.
It was another session where some players came to the fore, others slipped below standards, and new rivalries potentially began. But the most important thing above all else is everyone got a little better heading into a period of rest.
With this in mind, here are four critical observations from Day 2 of Washington's mandatory minicamp.
Canadian wildfires impacting practices
There was something other than practice that demanded the Washington Commanders' attention on Day 2 of the team's mandatory minicamp. The Canadian wildfires have seen streams of hazardous smoke descend across the east coast, which has enveloped New York and is also set to get worse throughout the D.C. area in the coming days.
After consulting with experts, Ron Rivera opted to hold practice outdoors on Wednesday. The situation will be monitored closely in the coming hours, but the head coach stated via Sports Illustrated that they might have to move things indoors based on forecasts.
"We looked at the air quality index … We reached out to our doctors, our medical personnel and asked about what our options are about practicing today, tomorrow and probably next week we'll have to continue to monitor it."
- Ron Rivera via Sports Illustrated
Safety for all is absolutely paramount here. While going into the dome isn't exactly ideal, it might be the best course of action given the current situation.