5 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 9

There was a vibrant family atmosphere in the air for Day 9 of Washington Commanders training camp. This was Kids Day at the OrthoVirginia Training Center in Ashburn. The team welcomed several community youth groups to see their heroes in action - something that added to the overall occasion of the event.

For Dan Quinn and his players, it's about setting the right tone and preparing effectively for their upcoming challenges. The Commanders are gearing up for their first preseason outing at the New York Jets on Saturday, so locking in and getting familiarized with the game-day feel once again is a critical part of the process.

It's been largely encouraging so far. Some potential problems are emerging, but Quinn must be thrilled with the way his players are responding to schematic demands and enhanced coaching. Hopefully, this can inspire a new-look team to be more competitive when the regular season finally gets here.

That's for the future. For now, here are five critical observations from Day 9 of Washington's training camp in 2024.

Critical observations from Day 9 of Commanders 2024 training camp

Commanders OL injuries

The Washington Commanders need everyone fit and firing on all cylinders to put their ambitious plans into motion. They could do without injury problems becoming an ongoing source of frustration. Avoiding them entirely is impossible. Keeping them to a minimum is essential.

Washington's coaching staff are taking every possible precaution with their offensive line. Andrew Wylie didn't participate once again on Day 9 after still experiencing tightness. Stud right guard Sam Cosmi also missed the session, although head coach Dan Quinn stated that the issue wasn't deemed serious.

Backup offensive tackle Alex Akingbulu left the field on a cart after going down during a drill. The severity of his problem hasn't been disclosed, but it's a sign of how precarious things can become for the Commanders if they lose one or two figures on the protection's depth chart.

It's too soon to be pressing the panic button just yet. But it'll be something Quinn and general manager Adam Peters should monitor closely.