Washington Commanders training camp on Aug 2, 2025, buzzes with new hope. See how Von Miller and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt are shaping a new era.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The energy was electric on Saturday as the Washington Commanders threw open the gates for one of their few public training camp practices. Thousands of fans, buzzing with a renewed sense of optimism under the Harris ownership, came to see the future of their team—a future that includes not just a new stadium at the hallowed RFK site, but new faces like future Hall of Famer Von Miller, who is already making his presence felt on the defensive line.
It's a great day in our process to bring the Commanders home.
The excitement wasn't just about the on-field action. Owner Josh Harris's recent comments celebrating the deal to build a new 65,000-seat stadium at the RFK site have resonated deeply with the fanbase. The move signifies a tangible commitment to restoring the franchise's legacy and reconnecting with its D.C. roots. Saturday's open practice felt like the first step in that journey, a reunion between a team building for the future and the fans who have waited patiently for a reason to believe again.
While the veterans are the main draw, training camp is where new legends are born. Undrafted running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt has been turning heads all week, showing impressive burst and vision that could earn him a spot on the 53-man roster. He's not the only one impressing; rookie tackle Connorly Jr. is making a serious push for a starting job, and newly acquired pass rusher Von Miller is already providing invaluable leadership. Even Deebo Samuel is reportedly looking 'great' in drills, giving the offense a needed spark.
For all the positive energy, a cloud hangs over Ashburn: the status of Terry McLaurin. The star wideout remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, a designation that is less about injury and more about his unresolved contract situation. While the team and his agent negotiate, Washington is practicing without its undisputed offensive leader. Every drill he misses is a concern, and the team's aspirations could hinge on getting No. 17 back on the field, signed, and happy before the season kicks off.
Protecting the quarterback remains a top priority, and the front office is leaving no stone unturned. The good news is that guard Sam Cosmi's recovery is progressing well, with coaches optimistic about his return for Week 1. To bolster depth, the team recently signed tackle Lucas Niang and held tryouts for guards Sala Aumavae-Laulu and Wyatt Davis. These moves signal a fierce competition for spots and a commitment to ensuring the line is a source of strength, not a liability.
As the second week of camp concludes, the Commanders are a team of exciting possibilities and lingering questions. The energy from the fans and the promise of a new home at RFK provide a powerful tailwind. On the field, new talent is emerging and key veterans are getting healthy. The next steps are critical: resolve the McLaurin contract, finalize the roster through intense preseason battles, and prove that this new era in Washington is built to last. The pieces are being put in place; now it's time to see if they fit.
