5 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 6

Commanders ramp up Johnny Newton

It was surprising to see Johnny Newton on the field for the first day of practice. The Washington Commanders got the all-clear to unleash the ferocious defensive tackle gradually after everything came back positive from his physical. He took another big step in his development on Day 6.

Newton was permitted to participate in team drills for the first time. This came with a significant amount of excitement attached, although the Commanders are still taking things slowly to prevent the risk of any unnecessary complications emerging.

The No. 36 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft seemed energized and ready to make an impact. Newton got some decent pressure when reps came his way according to those in attendance. Most notably, his inside move caused havoc and made things extremely difficult for any offensive lineman in his path.

This was a positive leap for Newton. He's happy to be back out there with his teammates and thinks the best is yet to come based on comments via the team's website.

"It felt really good to be out there. I've been watching since OTAs, minicamp, so it felt good to get back out there with the guys, family. They've been giving me great support. Everybody in the locker room, everybody in the building really. So, just to get out there and compete, it felt really good to get off. I'm not expecting to get back to 100 percent, first day of practice. Just getting my feet. Honestly, this is my first NFL practice, getting up to speed and hopefully, eventually for sure soon I'll be back to 100 percent and back to my old self."

- Johnny Newton via Commanders.com

Getting a full camp under his belt will do wonders for Newton's hopes of immediate involvement. It'll take a couple of weeks to get his football legs back, but the Commanders are confident that the Illinois product can bring an extra sense of energy and physicality to a defensive front that appears loaded with playmakers.

Newton is keen to make up for some lost time and make those who overlooked him during the draft pay for their mistakes. That's a dangerous combination that the Commanders should benefit from greatly in 2024.