Everything you need to know as the Commanders open training camp

The Commanders’ quest to get back to the playoffs begins this week.

Washington opens training camp on Wednesday after a long offseason sitting on a 5-12 campaign. The front office spent the last eight months trying to revamp the organization, hoping to rekindle the magic of 2024.

Quarterback Jayden Daniels is still the undoubted leader of the team. But around him, much has changed.

Washington has a new offensive coordinator and plans on implementing a completely different scheme. The defense also has a new play caller and plenty of new faces.

First-round draft pick Sonny Styles is the headliner of the group. But you can’t forget about push-rusher (and former Raven) Odafe Oweh, linebacker Leo Chenal and secondary pieces like Nick Cross and Rasul Douglas.

“It’s a very multiple [defense],” general manager Adam Peters said. “It just gives [the team] a lot to play with. I’m excited to see how it unfolds.”

But not everything is looking up in Washington. For one, the cornerback depth is already being tested as Trey Amos is starting camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list. It’s a concerning sign for a team that allowed 242 passing yards a game last year, the fourth-worst in the league.

At least for now, Peters’ concern level with Amos is low. But he will be watching closely to see if Washington needs to add any depth to the cornerback room before the opener.

“He should be back soon as well,” Peters said. “Just wanted to be overly cautious there.”

The Banner has been previewing training camp — including the big questions, under-the-radar players and position battles.

This is everything you need to know as the Commanders start camp.

The major questions

Will Daniels have enough support on offense? Are the new play-callers ready? What about the pass rush?

If Washington wants to head back to the postseason, it must answer these questions by the season opener in Philadelphia.

The key position battles

Terry McLaurin is undoubtedly Washington’s top receiver. He’s also one of the most important people in the organization. But behind him, Washington is searching for a secondary pass catcher. Will it be Treylon Burks, Dyami Brown, Jaylin Lane, Van Jefferson? Or will Washington go out and get Stefon Diggs?

Receiver is just one position battle head coach Dan Quinn needs to monitor. Reviving the edge rusher position and manufacturing a competitive secondary will also be at the top of the list for Quinn this August.

Rookies to watch

We’ve already talked about Styles. He is the headliner. But what about receiver Antonio Williams’ case to be a breakout candidate in 2026?

These are some breakout candidates for Washington to monitor this camp.

Superlatives

Who has the most to prove in camp? What about the biggest opportunity, or the most under-the-radar player? We broke down which players have the most to gain this summer and who will be the most stressed before the opener next month.