What were some critical observations from the 11th official day of practice for the Washington Commanders at their 2023 training camp?
There seems to be no let-up in preparations for the upcoming campaign after one of the most dramatic offseasons in Washington Commanders franchise history. But as preseason games and joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens come onto the immediate horizon, the smell of real football is officially in the air.
Optimism is higher than ever among the fanbase thanks to Dan Snyder's departure. Whether that can transition to the playing side of things remains to be seen, but Ron Rivera won't get another year to see out his project if significant improvements aren't made.
It's an interesting time that's for sure. With this in mind, here are four critical observations from practice No. 11 at Washington's training camp in 2023.
Commanders still waiting on Logan Thomas
Concerns are growing about Logan Thomas after the veteran tight end missed his third-straight practice with a calf issue. When one considers the Washington Commanders also had a day off on Saturday, it's four days without any football-related activity.
Thomas is an integral part of the team's plans within Eric Bieniemy's offense next season. The Commanders didn't strengthen the tight end spot during the offseason and potential breakout star Armani Rogers is already out for the year, so losing the former quarterback for any lengthy period of time would be disastrous.
Perhaps the Commanders are just erring on the side of caution at this stage of their preparations. But it's something for fans to monitor with Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals a little over one month away.