5 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 1

Commanders' defensive dynamic

The Washington Commanders' defense received a much-needed makeover this offseason. This unit underachieved in the worst possible way in 2023 thanks to unmotivated players, bland schematic concepts, and the team's decision to trade Montez Sweat and Chase Young before the deadline.

This was a recipe for failure. Things look much more promising now. Every position group got an upgrade in some capacity during general manager Adam Peters' first recruitment period. Depth also looks stronger across the board, which improves Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s ability to get creative with alignments depending on the situation.

Watching this dynamic unfold over camp will be telling. The players will switch constantly, but the core base early on was identified by Ben Standig of The Athletic.

The respected beat writer noted that Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Clelin Ferrell lined up as the starting defensive ends alongside the stud defensive tackle tandem of Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne. Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu lined up at the defensive second level, with Quan Martin and Jeremy Chinn occupying safety spots on the backend.

It's early days, but Benjamin St-Juste and Emmanuel Forbes Jr. were the starting outside coverage duo. Rookie second-round selection Mike Sainristil manned the starting slot cornerback role as the Commanders got him heavily involved right out of the gate.

This can - and probably will - change. Others are chomping at the bit for involvement and will get plenty of chances to showcase their potential within Quinn's expansive system. The core base defense sets the tone initially. Based on first impressions, this unit looks much stronger on paper compared to last season.

The likes of Jamin Davis, Johnny Newton, Darrick Forrest, Dante Fowler Jr., Michael Davis, and perhaps even rookie linebacker Jordan Magee look capable of gaining significant reps throughout the campaign. This bodes well for the Commanders next season and potentially beyond if positivity increases over Washington's training camp.