7 critical observations from Commanders 2024 training camp Day 14

Better day from Emmanuel Forbes Jr.

Emmanuel Forbes Jr. has taken his fair share of criticism over the last week. The cornerback endured a rough ride in joint practice and preseason action versus the New York Jets. This left many wondering whether he was worthy of being part of the Washington Commanders' ambitious plans for the future.

Forbes went some way to silencing his doubters during Washington's practice with the Miami Dolphins. It wasn't easy against the blazing pass-catchers at Mike McDaniel's disposal. However, the former first-round pick out of Mississippi State held his own.

This is a step forward for Forbes. Flashing moments of promise isn't a problem. Being consistent and enhancing trust in his coverage capabilities represents the biggest conundrum.

Seeing if Forbes can build on this encouraging showing during Saturday's warmup fixture is the next assessment tool. It'll be tough, but this should provide a little extra confidence to utilize in a more typical game-day environment.

Jahan Dotson fighting for Commanders WR2 spot

Dan Quinn fired a warning to Jahan Dotson before practice. If the wide receiver thought his WR2 spot was secure, he's mistaken. The head coach made it abundantly clear it was an ongoing assessment and the spot will be earned, not handed out.

Dotson is under no illusions based on comments to the media after practice. He's also focusing on things within his control. This centers on making the improvements needed to convince the coaching staff he's worthy of extended involvement.

"Just trying to show what I can do every single day, and be better than yesterday. I'm trying to grow every single day that I'm out here, trying to find something different to get better at. That's my overall main focus, to just be better than I was yesterday. Keep building on my game, because I'm not where I want to be. So I'm gonna try and keep building every single day to get where I want to be."

- Jahan Dotson

It would be a surprise to see Dotson become an afterthought within Kliff Kingsbury's scheme. He's got too much talent for that. If he can keep developing, take on coaching effectively, and make opportunities count, the former Penn State standout should be involved.