4 critical observations from Commanders 2023 training camp Day 11

Commanders LG battle resumed

There was one bit of good news on the injury front on Monday. The Washington Commanders got Saahdiq Charles back into the lineup after missing a few practices with a calf strain, which immediately resumed the ongoing left guard position battle between the former fourth-round selection and Chris Paul.

It was a non-padded practice, but those in attendance did take note of Charles and Paul splitting starting reps throughout. The one-time Tulsa star caught the eye working alongside Charles Leno Jr. in his teammate's absence, although getting the better of Washington's outstanding defensive front consistently is an almost impossible task.

The Commanders haven't named a definitive No. 1 at the position yet, which is the only place up for grabs on the offensive line. Just when Ron Rivera will announce the winner has yet to be determined, but one suspects he'll want to get a closer look at both in preseason games before coming to a final conclusion.

Charles has talent but can barely stay healthy. Paul is one with the upside, but his lack of genuine gameday NFL experience is something that represents a voyage into the unknown in this scenario.

Time will tell and Rivera will play the best man. But this is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating position competitions from a starting capacity remaining at training camp.