Commanders news: Adam Peters, Dan Quinn, Jayden Daniels and Johnny Newton

We have arrived.

The Washington Commanders will hold their first training camp practice under the new regime later today (Wednesday). This is the start of their most intense preparation phase before the 2024 season and energy is high. It's been a monumental offseason of changes across the board. Now, the time to focus fully on football is firmly upon us.

There's renewed hope surrounding the Commanders that wasn't there previously. Peters gutted the roster and laid the foundations for future success through front-office enhancements. Quinn and his accomplished staff team must build on this by molding their squad into a cohesive, competitive outfit in the coming weeks.

It's a tough challenge, but the vibes emanating from the Commanders are completely different from anything fans have seen in more than a decade. New life has been breathed into the organization, so it's no surprise to see expectations growing along the way.

As expected, the headlines have been plentiful once again. Among the stories accumulating column inches include Quinn's ambition, Peters' excitement, Johnny Newton's status, and Jayden Daniels' ongoing assessment.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders DT Johnny Newton's status

The Washington Commanders felt like they got a gift from the football gods when Johnny Newton fell into their laps at No. 36 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Injuries and concerns about his perceived lack of run-stopping prowess meant he dropped out of the first round. That could be positive in the long run, but the interior defensive lineman's transition to the pros was stunted thanks to foot fractures that both required surgery.

Newton is beginning camp in the active/non-football injury list. Although there's been no definitive timeline for his return, general manager Adam Peters doesn't expect it to be too much longer before the rookie is ready to be unleashed. However, the Commanders will remain cautious to avoid any unnecessary complications.

"We really had to hold him back. He's a monster and wants to go, go, go. We're really pleased with his progress … and we expect to release the reins sooner rather than later."

- Adam Peters

There's no rush here. While it would be nice to have Newton involved quickly, the Commanders have Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Phidarian Mathis, and John Ridgeway III to pick up the slack. Getting the player to 100 percent is more important than camp reps at this juncture.

Newton is a tremendous football player whose infectious enthusiasm and determination won over the Commanders. He's keen to make the league pay for overlooking his capabilities. Missing time over his early integration is only going to increase the former Illinois star's hunger.