4 key objectives the Commanders must achieve at 2024 training camp

Commanders must decide on a starting left tackle

In any and every rebuild, one of the biggest objectives for the offensive side of the ball is not just constructing a top-of-the-line offensive line. Every team needs a prolific left tackle that can anchor the quarterback’s blindside for years to come.

Since the infamous exit of the former franchise tackle Trent Williams, the spot has been a turnstile for the Washington Commanders. Something that needs to change as a matter of urgency for quarterback Jayden Daniels to excel. 

This season, there will be competition at left tackle once more. Veteran Cornelius Lucas and rookie Brandon Coleman are expected to duke it out for the No. 1 spot throughout camp and preseason games. It's a legitimate battle that could go either way.

This is what camp is all about. On these fields when the tempers are high, the heat and humidity are through the roof, and the competition is fierce, players bring their best. Securing any sort of confidence about the left tackle spot should be accomplished in the coming weeks.

It is not healthy for any offense in the league to have uncertainty at the blindside area of their offensive line. It’s paramount that Daniels has the best protection possible to be successful within the pocket and structure of the system set in place.

Can the Commanders accomplish this in 2024? It's doubtful from the outside looking in, but the NFL is always unpredictable.

Should Washington commit to a youth movement in general, pushing Coleman as the starter at left tackle could be beneficial. The former TCU Horned Frog standout offers great size and impressive mobility. He is also more refined in his technique than one would expect from a non-first-round tackle.

While it is still unknown how Coleman will look against quality NFL pass rushers, training camp offers a great chance for the rookie to stand out for a team looking for more established talents. The Commanders would be wise to give the edge presence all he can handle as part of their early assessments.