5 Commanders players who are already turning heads at 2024 OTAs

There is a different energy within the Washington Commanders these days. This is not the same organization that descended into toxicity and embarrassment under the previous owner. Those in power have given everything across the set-up a positive makeover and the atmosphere changed almost instantly.

This was the first step. Next on the agenda is Dan Quinn and his coaching staff putting their strategies into action.

Getting so many new faces from different backgrounds to become a cohesive unit is paramount if the Commanders want to genuinely progress next season. The coaching staff must also implement schematic concepts and ensure each player knows what's expected when competitive action arrives. It won't be easy, but the early signs are encouraging nonetheless.

There's been a strong turnout throughout organized team activities so far. The increased competition for places and not wanting to get left behind under the new men in charge are big reasons. At the same time, players know there could be something special brewing in Washington and want to help in whatever way possible.

With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who are already turning heads at OTAs in 2024.

Brandon Coleman - Commanders OT

There is an enormous amount of pressure on Brandon Coleman's development this offseason. The Washington Commanders spent the No. 67 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft on the offensive tackle. Ideally, they want an immediate return on their investment.

This would be Coleman winning the starting left tackle gig for Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. That's a lot to ask - especially considering the concerns surrounding his lack of length and how it might cause complications at the next level - but the former TCU star is off to a promising opening to his league journey at OTAs.

According to those in attendance, Coleman is more than holding his own against veteran competition. He's a fluid mover and extremely athletic. These are two solid building blocks for the edge presence that can be molded into something more over time.

The Commanders have enough spare financial resources to make additional moves should they wish. But if Coleman keeps up this trend throughout the summer, he might get a shot right out of the gate.

Zach Ertz - Commanders TE

Despite putting together a highly productive playing career, Zach Ertz came into the Washington Commanders this offseason with a point to prove.

He was cast aside by the Arizona Cardinals midway through the 2023 campaign and failed to find another suitor until the postseason when the Detroit Lions brought him in as an insurance policy behind rookie Sam LaPorta. Many wondered if this would be the end of Ertz's professional journey, but Kliff Kingsbury feels there is still more to give.

Washington's new offensive coordinator likely banged the table hard for Ertz. Kingsbury's worked with the player previously during their time together in Arizona. They developed a solid relationship and the tight end featured heavily within his offensive scheme with great success attached.

That said, some questioned whether Ertz was deserving of another opportunity to be a legitimate No. 1 tight end at this late stage of his playing days. Looking at the start he's made during OTAs, this could end up being a shrewd piece of business by the Commanders.

Ertz looks sharp during drills and is making tough catches look routine according to those in attendance. He's savvy enough to find soft spots in coverages and become Jayden Daniels' best friend in no time.

Of course, he must also play the role of mentor to rookie tight end Ben Sinnott. The Kansas State product is seen as the long-term starting option after Washington took him at No. 53 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Ertz must pass on his knowledge and ensure he's ready to step up when the time comes.

This strong start from Ertz should alleviate some concerns about his contribution to Kingsbury's expansive offensive system. The more dependable pass-catchers that Daniels has to call upon, the better. We are only early in the process and the pads haven't come on yet, but the former second-round selection out of Stanford looks like someone who could make an impact next season.

Jonathan Allen - Commanders DT

After months of speculation surrounding his future, it was probably a relief for Jonathan Allen to focus on football once again. The defensive tackle cut a forlorn figure in 2023 and became increasingly frustrated by the lack of motivation to improve. Things couldn't be anything further from that right now.

Talk of trading Allen constantly came up in the media after the player hinted his future might lie away from the Washington Commanders. This was not a sentiment echoed by Adam Peters or Dan Quinn, who saw the former first-round pick out of Alabama as an integral part of their plans.

More importantly, Allen seems re-energized following the team's offseason overhaul. When speaking to the media this week, the lineman was visibly thrilled with the complete shift in atmosphere. Something that is bringing a new lease of life to the Commanders as they search for better days.

"I’m just so happy; I love the coaching staff, I love the direction we’re moving in, I love the way we’re working, man, it has truly been reinvigorating. Just so fun to come to work every day. This is literally just a dream job right now."

Jonathan Allen via USA Today Sports

Allen's on-field production is a given. He's one of the best interior forces around despite taking a slight step back last season. However, seeing the persona shift and how excited the player is caught the eye in no uncertain terms.

Losing almost constantly couldn't have been easy for Allen or anyone else in recent seasons. He'll know that every player has a cut-off point before regressing and his could be coming soon. Therefore, it wasn't hard to see why the Pro Bowler might have been looking at alternative destinations in pursuit of an elusive Super Bowl ring.

Thankfully, that's no longer the case. If Allen continues to respond positively and displays the same energy throughout Washington's preparation period, a huge campaign awaits in 2024.

Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB

If Jayden Daniels is carrying a heavy burden entering his first preparation period with the Washington Commanders, he isn't showing any signs of feeling the pressure. Big things are expected of the quarterback after he was chosen No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. It's early days, but there's a growing sense that the franchise has something special on its hands.

Daniels looks the part in every way imaginable. The gunslinger's accuracy and timing of his throws have been first-class throughout OTAs according to those in attendance. He's soaking up every piece of advice from the coaching staff and veteran backup Marcus Mariota. There's also a lot to like about the player's mechanics and how quickly the football leaves his hands.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about Daniels so far centers on his work ethic. Established veterans have commented that the Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU is always first into the building, either working out or studying film. This sort of thing commands respect and doesn't go unnoticed by teammates.

It's important not to get too carried away initially. We'll find out more about what Daniels might be capable of next season when the pads go on at camp and whatever reps he's allocated during the preseason. But it's hard not to be encouraged by his seamless transition from college to the pros so far.

The Commanders gave Daniels a huge vote of confidence by choosing him over other college hopefuls once Caleb Williams went to the Chicago Bears. He knows that draft status means nothing when push comes to shove. Every rookie must prove themselves all over again, especially considering the bullseye on his back will be bigger than most.

Much will depend on how the offensive line holds up, but Daniels has a chance to take the league by storm immediately. He'll need a lot of help, but the natural leadership and quiet aura have gone over extremely well in a relatively short space of time.

Bobby Wagner - Commanders LB

Acquiring one of the greatest linebackers of the modern era was a significant coup by the Washington Commanders. While there is no doubt Bobby Wagner is approaching the end of his Pro Football Hall of Fame career, he remains highly productive and influential. Something head coach Dan Quinn will rely upon heavily during the preparation period and when competitive games arrive.

Wagner wasted no time in raising the standards. He holds himself professionally and expects others to do the same. There's a winning mindset to his approach that's been a breath of fresh air. It's also assisted coaches and teammates tremendously throughout OTAs so far.

The former second-round pick is always willing to provide advice and guidance. Wagner's seen and done it all. And yet, he's checked his ego at the door and put the team first - something that cannot be said of some veterans acquired by the Commanders in recent years.

Having Wagner will be like an on-field coach for Quinn throughout the campaign. The pair worked together previously on the Seattle Seahawks. They hold deep respect for one another and should continue their thriving working relationship in a different environment. It won't be perfect all the time, but hopes are high for now.

There's a chance Wagner's production falls off a cliff at 35 years old when the campaign arrives. However, the fact he gained 183 tackles last season en route to yet another Pro Bowl appearance and second-team All-Pro honor indicates there are plenty of strong performances left before he eventually walks away.

The Commanders' linebacking corps got a much-needed revamp this offseason. Wagner and Frankie Luvu could be a dynamic second-level tandem and the depth also took a notable leap forward. This was a critical part of Adam Peters' plans after the position became ignored completely by previous head coach Ron Rivera.

Again, preparations are still in their infancy before the regular season. However, the impression made by Wagner as a player and culture-shifter is incredibly pleasing.