4 intriguing developments from Commanders 2024 OTAs

It's been a busy start to the preparation period for the Washington Commanders. There is a lot of hard work ahead for Dan Quinn and his staff. They must implement their schematic concepts and bring a new-look roster together quickly. This is the best chance this franchise has of meeting loftier expectations in 2024.

The media was allowed to attend their latest practice at voluntary organized team activities on Wednesday. This will be swiftly followed by Washington's mandatory minicamp next week. After that, the Commanders enjoy a short break ahead of their all-important training camp and preseason games before Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Quinn knows the challenges that await. The Commanders made vast alterations during the first phase of Adam Peters' ambitious project., At the same time, this will be a gradual route back into potential contention. Fans should keep that in mind throughout what promises to be another fascinating campaign.

With that being said, here are four intriguing developments from Commanders OTAs in 2024.

Commanders defensive creativity

Joe Whitt Jr. is a no-nonsense guy. The new Washington Commanders defensive coordinator is widely respected as a talent developer and shrewd, progressive mind. He's also fully aware of Dan Quinn's schematic demands after the pair worked closely together on the Dallas Cowboys over the last two seasons.

Much has been made about the current defensive make-up. Reporters have taken a keen interest in who's starting where. But according to Whitt, this is going to be an all-guns-blazing approach that will require more than just 11 guys making a significant contribution.

"We don't have 11 starters okay? You're gonna put this down so don't ask me who's starting here. We have 17 to 18 guys. We gonna go out there are we're gonna run a deep crew, and to go out there and whoop people. So we don't have 11 guys. We have many personnel groups and now, can they own those positions when we put them in there? So when that comes, don't ask me about who's starting please."

- Joe Whitt Jr.

Whitt and Quinn and going to implement a creative system that keeps opposing offenses on their toes. Looking at the personnel available, there's a lot of versatility attached, especially in the linebacking corps and throughout the secondary. Hopefully, this can help propel the Commanders' defense to heights not seen for some time.