4 critical observations from Commanders 2023 training camp Day 14
By Dean Jones
What critical observations emerged from the 14th official day of Washington Commanders training camp practice ahead of the 2023 season?
After a well-deserved rest day following the team's triumph over the Cleveland Browns to begin their preseason engagements, the Washington Commanders returned to the practice field for a 14th session of training camp. Excitement is building ahead of joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, which should be a solid measuring stick for Ron Rivera's men against a legitimate playoff hopeful led by former NFL MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson.
The Commanders are at the business end of preparations for the upcoming campaign. There seems to be a great deal of momentum building across the franchise, with new owners and a brighter vision for the future hopefully providing the catalyst behind better on-field fortunes along the way.
That said, here are four critical observations from practice No. 14 from Washington's training camp.
Commanders DL duo held out
Considering the injury problems suffered by Phidarian Mathis and Chase Young last season, the Washington Commanders are right to err on the side of caution. That's the exact reason why both defensive linemen were kept out of Sunday's practice.
Young was still feeling the effects of a stinger suffered against the Cleveland Browns and wasn't risked by the coaching staff. Mathis was feeling some soreness in his calf after the game and also missed the session.
Both players are going to be counted upon heavily next season, so taking every possible precaution at this stage is the only realistic course of action. Hopefully, both will be able to feature during joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, but it's a situation worth monitoring at the very least.