On July 31, Commanders QB Jayden Daniels dazzled in the first padded practice while owner Josh Harris revealed a $3.8B plan for a new D.C. stadium at RFK.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
What a day to be a Commanders fan. While the future of the franchise's home took a monumental step forward with a $3.8 billion proposal to return to D.C., the future of the on-field product was on full display in Ashburn. The pads came on for the first time in training camp, and quarterback Jayden Daniels reportedly 'hit on all cylinders,' looking every bit the superstar he's projected to become.
Analysts describe the Commanders as having 'upside,' with Jayden Daniels on a 'superstar trajectory' after a historic rookie season.
The intensity ratcheted up a notch as the team donned full pads for the first time. The thud of contact echoed across the practice fields, and Jayden Daniels thrived in the environment. Reports from camp observers highlighted his improved chemistry with his receivers and a firm command of the offense. It wasn't just the QB show, though. The offensive and defensive lines engaged in fierce battles, and rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt continued to turn heads with his explosive play. Crucially, the team emerged from the physical session with no major injuries, keeping the positive momentum rolling.
Off the field, owner Josh Harris and his group made a significant push to bring the team back to the District, advancing a $3.8 billion plan to redevelop the RFK site. The vision isn't just for a stadium but a year-round community hub with housing, parks, and jobs, a plan backed by Mayor Muriel Bowser. While some on the D.C. Council are wary of the $1 billion in public funding, the proposal represents a tangible step toward a permanent home. The day's news was briefly sidetracked by former President Donald Trump's call to revive the 'Redskins' name, a move that feels disconnected from the current ownership's forward-looking vision.
This team's current confidence is built on a blockbuster offseason. The front office didn't just sit back; they aggressively added talent, trading for Pro Bowl LT Laremy Tunsil and dynamic WR Deebo Samuel. They solidified the foundation by re-signing veteran TE Zach Ertz and drafting a promising class led by first-round OT Josh Conerly and second-round CB Trey Amos. This blend of established stars and high-upside rookies is why the Commanders, currently sitting atop the NFC East (albeit with a 0-0 record), are seen as a team on the rise.
With momentum building on the field and for a new home, the Commanders are firing on all cylinders. The energy is palpable, and all eyes now turn to August 18th, when we get our first real look at this revamped squad in preseason action against the Bengals. The future is bright in D.C.
