Washington Commanders opened the official 2023 season with their first practice session of Training Camp today. The entire vibe was just different from all aspects: players, coaches, staff, and the media. The excitement level will undoubtedly be higher when fans are allowed tomorrow. Here are my thoughts on what I saw today.
The Good
Sam Howell- QB1 looked the part today. In previous years good days and bad days were easily determined by the hope of good QB play. Howell showed a comfort level with the offense, getting the team lined up, knowing where coach Bienemy wants the ball to go, and most importantly throwing the ball in the right spot. Howell rarely put the ball in harm’s way and I was more shocked when a bad throw happened. Let’s see how this progresses as the defense ramps it up.
Secondary- Based off the draft you could tell the defense wanted playmakers in the secondary and today you can see the emphasis. The secondary had four interceptions on the day ( one against Jacoby Brissett, three against Jake Fromm) and a couple of fumbles as well. The aggressiveness of the secondary was more evident and should pay dividends this season.
Good Health- Chase Young, Logan Thomas, and Jamin Davis were all coming off of either injuries or surgeries, but all were without braces and moving well. Young looked explosive and Coach Rivera spoke highly of how he moved, same for Jamin Davis. Logan looked good as well as a blocker and a receiver. Good health is always a positive.
The Bad
Jake Fromm- Jake Fromm had been pretty good during OTA’s and Mini Camp but today struggled a lot. As I mentioned earlier Fromm threw three interceptions and made some other bad decisions. His arm is nowhere near Howell’s or even Brissett’s so his decisions must be quick and accurate. There are only three QB’s in camp so his place is ok but days like these can’t happen.
The Ugly
Moving Slow- One very noticeable difference with Coach Bienemy is the urgency and speed of movement. His offense has a tempo and if things aren’t going correctly, he will definitely let you know. Could be breaking the huddle wrong, or the center on the wrong snap count, or the QB not getting the play on time, he will let you know. That tempo matters and holding all players accountable.
Quote of the Day
On if there is a lot of energy during camp does he have to remind the players that it is not game time yet: “Oh yeah, we do. I promise you the first guy you guys will hear, and somebody told me they heard him. You will hear Chase [Young], that’s for sure.”
Coach Rivera on Chase Young
