5 mouth-watering clashes to watch at Commanders 2024 training camp

Commanders running backs vs. linebackers

Get your popcorn ready for this one.

The Washington Commanders made significant upgrades to their linebacking corps this offseason. Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner represent a potentially dynamic tandem capable of spearheading this defense to new heights. Jamin Davis is getting more time on the edge. There's also hope rookie Jordan Magee continues his positive form earlier this offseason en route to prominent involvement.

Washington's running back room will be a tough proposition to overcome during drills. Austin Ekeler's arrival offsets the departure of Antonio Gibson. Brian Robinson Jr. looks like a genuine breakout candidate in 2024. If Chris Rodriguez Jr. develops further after flashing promise in Year 1, this will be a productive trio to help quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Nobody will want to give an inch when the pads go on at Washington's training camp. Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. are counting on the defensive second-level to set the tone. Dominating against the run is the best building block to prosperity.

Jahan Dotson vs. Mike Sainristil

Mike Sainristil has the potential to be an immediate difference-maker. The Commanders got lucky when he fell into their laps at No. 50 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Legendary head coach Nick Saban thought the cornerback was the best pound-for-pound prospect in this class. A seamless transition from college to the pros over early offseason workouts only raised encouragement regarding his chances.

Things will get more intense for Sainristil over camp. The Commanders will put him through some strenuous paces in readiness for his regular-season challenges. Expect to see him lined up against wide receiver Jahan Dotson a lot during drills and scrimmages. He'll move around the line of scrimmage as offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury looks to exploit any mismatches he might identify.

Dotson hasn't hit the heights expected of a first-round selection as yet. There's belief in his capability to finally break out under Washington's ameliorated staff. The talent and athleticism are there, it's merely a case of building confidence and fine-tuning his obvious skill set.

This potential clash between Sainristil and Dotson will bring the best out of them. It'll also provide coaches with enough information to determine what their respective roles will be next season.