Sonny Styles shines as pads go on in Commanders training camp

Washington's training camp kicked off with pads on for the first time this season, prompting heightened competition at the 3-yard line. Linebacker Sonny Styles quickly drew attention, delivering a hard hit on Jacory Croskey-Merritt that echoed from the sideline and following it with another tackle for no gain in the next drill.

The offensive unit responded with several scoring plays, including a touchdown pass from Marcus Mariota to the running back and a back-corner connection between Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin despite tight coverage from Mike Sainristil. Daniels also linked with tight end Chig Okonkwo on a tight-window throw that resulted in a touchdown reception.

Running back Rachaad White displayed breakaway speed on an outside run, adding ten yards after evading Will Harris, while rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams continued to find separation, scoring two touchdowns, one in a two-minute drill.

Defensive highlights featured rookie Joshua Josephs, who bat-down a pass from Daniels and showed speed in pass-protection drills, and linebacker Ale Kaho, who intercepted a pass from Athan Kaliakmanis and forced a turnover on a two-point conversion attempt.

The offensive line saw Laremy Tunsil perform as expected, with Sam Cosmi winning a physical matchup against Javon Kinlaw. On special teams, kickers Jake Moody and Drew Stevens each made all of their field-goal attempts.

"Linebacker Kain Medrano was removed from the Active/Physically Unable to Perform list on Monday and cleared to practice," head coach Dan Quinn said. He added that evaluations for Trey Amos and Tress Way are scheduled for Thursday, with no major updates for other injured players.

Overall, the first day of pads highlighted strong individual efforts and a competitive atmosphere as the Commanders continue to shape their roster.