4 key objectives the Commanders must achieve at 2024 training camp

Finding the Commanders No. 4 wide receiver

A great thing for a rookie quarterback to have entering the NFL is a steady group of playmakers that can ease the expectations off their shoulders. The Washington Commanders offer that with Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and rookie Luke McCaffrey.

McLaurin is one of the few established players in Washington. Dotson is hoping to take the next step as a true No. 2 wide receiver. As a top-100 selection, McCaffrey’s route-running ability and ball skills will force him into the No. 3 receiver slot. However, there is a little bit of an unknown from WR4 and down.

There will be a ton of competition for what will likely be three more spots at wide receiver. Dyami Brown, Dax Milne, Olamide Zaccheaus, Jamison Crowder, Damiere Bryd, and rookie Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint will all be competing for a chance to be contributors during a critical first year under the Dan Quinn and Adam Peters regime. 

This is a good thing. There is a lot of talent in that wideout room. The more Jayden Daniels has around him, the better.

These wide receivers will be used more often than most teams would due to Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. I expect there to be a prioritization of run-after-catch skill sets and route-running ability. Whoever ends up as the No. 4 playmaker at the position should be an immediate contributor.

Getting Jayden Daniels up to speed

With any high draft pick, especially at quarterback, there will be high expectations. That applies to Jayden Daniels, who is seen as the key to Washington’s prospects of returning to its glorious winning days.

The Commanders had some hope that Sam Howell would be that guy but has since sent him to the Seattle Seahawks via trade to back up Geno Smith. Since Kirk Cousins left, it's been a rotating door at the most important position in football. After securing the No. 2 selection, the franchise was finally able to secure a well-regarded, young signal caller. 

Daniels is a gifted passer and athlete. The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner displayed a beautiful deep ball and great processing pre-snap and post-snap. His playmaking ability is something to behold.

It wouldn’t be a surprise if Daniels became a superstar with the Commanders. However, just like any rookie, there is a transition process that could take most if not the entire rookie campaign to adjust to.

Dan Quinn hired former Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator. When you watch this offense, you’ll see plenty of read options, quick games, motions, and run-pass options. This fits what Daniels will likely need to adjust to the speed of the NFL game.

There will be struggles early on. That’s why training camp is a great place to get the wrinkles out now rather than in a live environment with millions watching you from afar.