5 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 2

Commanders' defensive indentity

Dan Quinn's defensive reputation is renowned around the league. He brings proven accomplishments to the Washington Commanders in that regard. The head coach has much more to manage in the top job, but his fingerprints will be all over the defensive strategy working in unison with no-nonsense coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.

This already looks like a breath of fresh air for the Commanders. Adam Peters did his part by completely gutting the personnel and improving it accordingly. Quinn, Whitt, and other defensive staff must improve teaching methods and ensure everyone gets on the same page over training camp.

Everything is going well so far. Players are responding positively to the demands placed on them by Washington's new regime. Quinn also provided an insight into what their identity on defense is going to be moving forward based on comments via Ben Standig from The Athletic.

"The speed, the physicality, the winning football in the most critical moments. Those are all the things that are going to make up our identity, and we’ve got to use this time to start establishing that in the very best of ways."

- Dan Quinn via The Athletic

It'll take time for cohesion to increase. This is a new group still learning on the job. However, it's hard not to be impressed by the fresh invigoration and will to get better that's emanating from the defensive group with Quinn and Whitt leading the charge.

When the pads go on next week will be a solid measuring stick for everybody. This instantly changes the mentality - one more in keeping with a typical game-day environment. If the defense can hold firm in the face of a much-improved offense led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, it'll only inspire further confidence.

Aside from the outside cornerback options and the pass rush, there are very few holes. If everyone buys into the creative schematic concepts Quinn brings to the table, the chances of being more competitive in 2024 are high.