The Washington Commanders kicked off padded practices in Ashburn this week, giving players their first real chance to show physicality in camp.
With full contact now part of the equation, two players have stood out — one on each side of the ball. ESPN’s John Keim has named who has made an early impact on defense, and one of them who has flashed on offense.
Here’s how both are turning heads early in camp.
Dorance Armstrong Leading the Defensive Charge for Commanders
The Commanders’ defensive front was aggressive from the start of Monday’s padded session. Dorance Armstrong, signed in free agency this offseason, stood out immediately.
He showed off his versatility by lining up in multiple spots along the defensive line. Armstrong rushed with his hand in the dirt, stood up on the edge, and even kicked inside on stunts.
The extra physicality of padded work allowed Armstrong’s power to show. While there was no full tackling, Armstrong consistently collapsed the pocket and forced early movement from the quarterbacks.
It’s an encouraging sign for a defensive line that’s been retooled after losing several starters last year.
Coaches praised Armstrong’s start, and his ability to rush from multiple alignments is giving the Commanders more flexibility in how they call pressures.
That’s also tied to the improved cornerback play behind him — defensive backs are holding up in press coverage, buying time for Armstrong and the front to disrupt the backfield.
If Armstrong continues to stack practices like this, he’s likely to earn a major rotational role or even push for a starting job.
Croskey-Merritt Impressing With Physical Runs
On the offensive side, undrafted rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt made the most of his increased workload. During Monday’s session, he delivered one of the highlights of the day when he broke through the middle of the defense and was met with a clean wrap-up by safety Tyler Owens. It wasn’t live tackling, but the collision stood out.
Croskey-Merritt has flashed solid vision and balance in early practices. He runs behind his pads and finishes forward — traits coaches want to see in young backs, especially during the evaluation period of camp.
With Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler atop the depth chart, Croskey-Merritt is battling for a roster spot and looks like he’s making a case early.
He’s also taken some reps on special teams and appears to be embracing the all-purpose role necessary for young players to earn a spot. Coaches have noted his work ethic, and padded practices are giving him a platform to show he can play through contact and pick up tough yards.
Despite Croskey-Merritt’s flashes, the defense remains ahead overall. Jayden Daniels has struggled to find consistency, especially with Terry McLaurin still holding in. The offense’s timing has suffered on fade routes, with corners locking down the boundary and safeties cleaning up mistakes.
One offensive bright spot was Deebo Samuel Sr., who caught a five-yard touchdown on Monday and a deep slot fade on Tuesday. But even that play was overshadowed by the pressure Daniels faced — he may have been sacked in a game situation.
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