There's a fervent sense of change enveloping the Washington Commanders at their training camp and preseason. This transformation is marked by an influx of new players and a nearly entirely overhauled coaching staff. The spearhead of this new era is none other than head coach Dan Quinn, supported by fresh offensive and defensive coordinators.
The team has not only introduced fresh faces but also embraced a new practice structure, reflecting an organizational shift in logistics that extends even to where players reside. In the pursuit of improvement and accountability, the Commanders launched an initiative called "Tell the Truth Monday," rolled out two days following their tight 20-17 preseason defeat at the hands of the Jets.
“It was good to tell the truth Monday—this is what we learned, this is what we need to do heading into this week,” remarked Quinn, encapsulating the essence of the initiative that delves into a comprehensive review of triumphs and areas that warrant enhancement. The aim is clear-cut: create an environment where performance is scrutinized honestly, and growth is a continuous process.
Among the notable moments in the recent clash with the Jets was rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels' notable debut. In his single drive, Daniels demonstrated poise and ingenuity, leading an audible that culminated in a remarkable 42-yard pass to Dyami Brown, subsequently finishing the series with a decisive 3-yard touchdown run.
Mason Brooks, reflecting on the initiative, noted, "Tell the Truth is good and bad. There's high points—like your rookie quarterback making a check like that—and there's low points, like guys missing assignments and coming up short. Obviously, when you don't win the game, it's a little bit more serious of a 'Tell the Truth Monday' than if you come out with a win.”
The game did shine a spotlight on several key performances despite the loss. Rookie Ben Sinnott caught attention with three receptions totaling 57 yards, showcasing his potential as a valuable offensive asset. However, the team also had to navigate through absent key players, with Brandon Coleman (shoulder/pectoral), Andrew Wylie (tightness), and Cornelius Lucas (personal) all sidelined.
To adapt, the Commanders cycled through six different players at the tackle position, among which Mason Brooks, Chris Paul, and Braeden Daniels each had moments of significance. Brooks, in particular, stood out by playing 34 of his team-high 53 snaps at left tackle, further solidifying his readiness and adaptability.
The rigorous nature of preseason play leaves its mark, and the Commanders are not exempt. Rookies Johnny Newton (foot), Jordan Magee (knee), and Sam Hartman (shoulder) are all nursing injuries, although Newton and Magee are expected to rejoin the fray sooner rather than later, bringing a dose of optimism amid the physical toll of preparation.
As the Commanders forge ahead, the clarity and honesty cultivated by "Tell the Truth Monday" are essential. Ben Sinnott articulated the week’s learnings, stating, "We still got a lot of stuff to improve on. I think the big thing that we kind of heard—the 'truth'—just being able to finish that game, make the plays that we need. We had a three-and-out, penalty on our last drive to go and take the lead, so just things we need to clean up, pre-snap errors, that kind of stuff that we can clean up and hopefully take our game to the next level."
Undoubtedly, the team's dedication to self-improvement and their willingness to confront both successes and shortcomings head-on will be critical as they advance through the preseason. The reshaped coaching staff and committed players are setting a foundation that, if continuously built upon, hopes to steer the Washington Commanders toward a season of progress and potential success.