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7 Commanders players already flashing superstar energy at OTAs

Some players have quickly left their mark, for differing reasons.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels | Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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The Washington Commanders managed to put together an impressive offseason. Adam Peters significantly bolstered the roster, raising competition and adding upgrades to key starting positions. Now, it's time for this new-look group to lay the foundations for a successful campaign.

Organized team activities are underway. It's the first step in a long preparation period, but an important one nonetheless. This is of greater significance to the Commanders, who are installing new offensive and defensive schemes following a major gamble by head coach Dan Quinn this offseason.

It wasn't hard to see why the vibes were a little off last summer. Players and coaches acknowledged that complacency may have crept into their mindset after reaching the NFC Championship game, which was unacceptable. The page has been turned, and everyone is refocused. Washington's fate is still hanging by a thread, but there is growing belief in the building around a much more profitable campaign.

Obviously, this is just the bedding-in period of sorts. Intensity will ramp up as the weeks and months go on. Training camp, joint practices, and the preseason will be the biggest challenges before Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles. But that doesn't mean some early standouts haven't caught the eye.

With this in mind, here are seven Commanders players who are already displaying signs of superstar energy, for differing reasons, at OTAs.

Washington Commanders players already flashing superstar energy at OTAs

Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR

Last season did not go according to plan for wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The veteran held out most of the summer during a tense contract standoff with general manager Adam Peters. He eventually got his money, but only when it benefited the Commanders and protected the team.

McLaurin's momentum upon his return was hindered by a quad/hip flexor issue that took longer than expected to shake off. By the time he did get healthy, quarterback Jayden Daniels wasn't around. It was a microcosm of how things unfolded for Washington in 2025, but the wideout is eager to set the tone for brighter fortunes.

According to reports, McLaurin has been leading the way at OTAs. He looks sharp, and the work undertaken away from the team has enabled him to hit the ground running. More importantly, he's taking the younger pass-catchers under his wing, giving them advice and guidance and serving as a role model to follow.

It's early days, of course. But the fact that McLaurin and other established veterans are so locked in indicates a real desire to right the wrongs of last season. If the same trend carries through into the regular season, the former Ohio State standout should return to his Pro Bowl-caliber levels.

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