Commanders prepare for Week 1 start

To conclude the pre-season, the Washington Commanders finished with an 0-3 record. Several positives in play transpired and some negatives that need to be cleaned up with the attention now focused on Week 1. During the short three weeks of training camp, good stories from the likes of Curtis Samuel, Brian Robinson, Jamin Davis, and the health of the team going forward.

Samuel saw plenty of action while showing the coaching staff and fanbase that he is fully healthy without any setbacks.

Rookie running back Brian Robinson displayed decisiveness and burst as he became a force with the ball in his hands out of the backfield. Robinson will now be a wait-and-see on his availability after being shot multiple times in a botched carjacking. He’s expected to fully recover and even be available this season to play.

Brian Robinson should be in your prayers for a healthy recovery to live life not just to run a football. #HTTC #NFL

— Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewisJr) August 28, 2022

As for 2nd-year player Jamin Davis, the jury is still out on him, and he flashed plenty during the three preseason games diagnosing plays quickly and flying around making stops.

As for negatives, the team struggled to get off the field on third downs in two of the three games. The opposing team’s starters had great success against the Commanders’ starting defense before being pulled for reserves. Issues remain in the secondary which could fall under the topics of miscommunication or depth, as well as the linebackers who also lack depth.

With Week 1 just seven days away, their opponent, Jacksonville Jaguars, has undergone a coaching change former Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles coach Doug Pederson now leading the way. Second-year quarterback Trevor Lawrence looks to have a much better season surrounded by upgraded targets in TE Evan Engram, WR Christian Kirk, WR Zay Jones, and even acquired former Washington All-Pro Guard Brandon Scherff for added protection along the line. Jacksonville should not be overlooked against Washington as they are just as hungry and looking to prove themselves as improved.

The Commanders will have to “Take Command” and take advantage of winnable games as a hot start could help boost the morale in the locker room going forward.