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.
Commanders OL pair switch positions
One potential problem that emerged from Friday's preseason game centered on the offensive line. Although there were one or two standouts across the unit, the level of consistency overall just wasn't where it needed to be.
We are still a few weeks away from the Washington Commanders taking the field for their regular-season opener against the Arizona Cardinals, so time is on the protection's side currently. However, it's a little concerning considering what's at stake for many across the organization in 2023.
Position versatility is something Ron Rivera values highly in his offensive linemen. That's a contentious subject among the fanbase, but it gives Washington more options in case of poor performance or injuries.
Another example of this came on Sunday. Although it was just a jog-through with no pads, the Commanders experimented with both Ricky Stromberg and Tyler Larsen at the guard positions throughout the session according to those in attendance.
Both players are designated centers, but there is enough athleticism with both to suggest that they could make the transition if needed. Sam Cosmi and Chris Paul did better than most during their warmup success over the Cleveland Browns, so it'll be interesting to see how this process plays out.
Perhaps the coaching staff used this chance to see what Stromberg and Larsen could offer in this scenario. And it never hurts to cover every base before the real action arrives.
Commanders LB Jamin Davis shines
As previously stated, Sunday's session was nothing more than a jog-through to get players back into the groove. But the Washington Commanders must have been pleased with what they saw from Jamin Davis.
The former first-round selection is looking to make another leap forward entering Year 3 of his professional career. This would be another boost for a defense that looks set for great things in 2023.
Davis was one of the standout performers on Sunday. His tackling prowess at the defensive second level is renowned, but it was the linebacker's improvements in coverage that caught the eye of those in attendance.
The one-time Kentucky star gained a nice interception and looked assured in coverage all day. This only heightened the level of confidence in Davis and what he might be able to accomplish next time around.
It'll be fascinating to see Davis and the Commanders' defense going up against the Baltimore Ravens in the coming days. This resembles a heavyweight contest with supreme difference-makers on both sides, so there should be no quarter given during what promises to be two physical practices for all involved.
Davis is just one important cog on the defensive wheel. But any rise in consistency could see the player become an integral part of the team's long-term plans as the Commanders get set to decide on his fifth-year option.
Commanders DB Percy Butler continues to emerge
It's no secret that Percy Butler has been one of the camp standouts so far, The talented defensive back is looking for more involvement after flashing briefly as a rookie, which could arrive despite the two starting safety positions locked up by Kamren Curl and Darrick Forrest.
The Washington Commanders will find it very difficult to leave Butler out based on his performance levels in practice and during Friday's preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. This session was another impressive one from the Louisiana product, who seems to be growing in confidence and is starting to feel like he belongs.
Butler came up with another interception on Sunday from a Jacoby Brissett throw. He also caught the attention of those in attendance thanks to an outstanding pass defense during scrimmages.
This is another positive step forward for Butler, who drew praise from head coach Ron Rivera for his development recently. How he performs against the Baltimore Ravens will be a good measuring stick in terms of his development, but the signs are incredibly positive right now, and long may it continue.
If Butler comes through this latest challenge with flying colors, expect to see plenty of three-safety sets deployed by Commanders' defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio throughout the upcoming campaign.