4 critical observations from Commanders 2023 OTAs Day 1
By Dean Jones
What were some critical observations from Day 1 of organized team actiivities for the Washington Commanders as preparations ramp up for the 2023 season?
After an offseason littered with off-field rumors and speculation, the Washington Commanders finally got to focus their attention on football matters. Something that's taken an age to arrive.
Players and coaches came together collectively for the first time since the 2023 NFL Draft on Tuesday. This signaled the official start of OTAs and a chance for Ron Rivera to put his grand plan into action ahead of the new season.
There is an enormous sense of intrigue about what the Commanders could potentially accomplish when competitive action arrives. Some decent moves have gone unnoticed nationally given the obvious sale distraction, but those within the building are quietly confident providing quarterback Sam Howell becomes a stable presence under center.
An interesting preparation period awaits. With that being said, here are four critical observations from Day 1 of Commanders OTAs in 2023.
Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr. looked sharp
This was just the opening practice, so it's still a bedding-in period for players and even recently acquired coaches looking to make their mark. However, second-year running back Brian Robinson Jr. looked particularly sharp according to those in attendance.
Robinson was explosive out of his cuts and even looked the part from a route running standpoint. Something that adds another string to his bow under the expert guidance of new play-caller Eric Bieniemy.
Hopefully, it is the beginning of a much smoother workout regime this time around for Robinson. The Washington Commanders are expecting big things from their lead back and it's important he delivers.