7 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 11

Commanders DL impresses

The Washington Commanders are expecting a lot from their defensive front this season. Normal service has been resumed throughout camp - especially on the interior with Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen. Something that continued during joint practice versus the New York Jets.

It took them a little while to get going, but the Commanders' defensive front had their way with the Jets for the most part. Allen and Payne look like a dominant unit once again. They were ably assisted on the edge by Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Clelin Ferrel during an encouraging day's work according to those in attendance.

Washington is counting on those in the trenches to set the right tone for others to follow. They're responding well to improved coaching. In Allen's case, he looks like a man reborn after trade speculation came to nothing this offseason.

This latest display of dominance only raises expectations further. It is more typical of the production fans have come to expect from the unit. Hopefully, last season was merely a bump in the road.

Jayden Daniels faces adversity

Jayden Daniels has done incredibly well throughout his early transition. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft's hard work and outstanding performance levels at training camp meant it's been smooth sailing up to now. That was about to change.

Daniels faced the biggest challenge of his fledgling career to date. The New York Jets boast one of the league's most dynamic young defenses with strength at all three levels. Weather conditions only made things more testing, so this was an outstanding measuring stick for the LSU product.

Some attempts were missed. Daniels also produced some exceptional throws to put his deep-ball accuracy on full display. Perhaps the most impressive thing from the signal-caller's standpoint was how he saw the field and took what the defense gave him according to those in attendance.

The Heisman Trophy winner received a glowing reference from All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner after practice. This was high praise from one of the best around. Even though it wasn't perfect for Daniels, he protected the football and made smart choices. That was all the Commanders could ask for in the circumstances.