There's an undeniable feeling of change in the air for the Washington Commanders as they navigate through training camp and the preseason. With a host of new players, a nearly complete overhaul of the coaching staff including a new head coach Dan Quinn, and new offensive and defensive coordinators, the Commanders are embracing transformation on all fronts.
This renewed energy is also reflected in their fresh practice structures and the logistics of where players reside. Emphasizing transparency and continuous improvement, the team has introduced a novel initiative called "Tell the Truth Monday." As described by head coach Dan Quinn, "It was good to tell the truth Monday—this is what we learned, this is what we need to do heading into this week."
Unveiled two days after a narrow 20-17 preseason loss to the Jets, "Tell the Truth Monday" offers a comprehensive review of both triumphs and areas needing development. The initiative is intended to be a learning tool, creating a platform for candid discussions about performance. Mason Brooks explained, "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."
Indeed, the game against the Jets provided ample material for such discussions. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels made a notable impression during his single drive, audibling a 42-yard pass to Dyami Brown and concluding the series with a 3-yard touchdown run. Rookie Ben Sinnott also made his mark, securing three receptions for 57 yards.
However, the game was not without its challenges. The Commanders had to adapt to the absence of tackles Brandon Coleman (shoulder/pectoral), Andrew Wylie (tightness), and Cornelius Lucas (personal), utilizing six different players at the position. Among those stepping up were Mason Brooks, playing 34 of his team-high 53 snaps at left tackle, Chris Paul, and Braeden Daniels.
Injuries also impacted the team with rookies Johnny Newton (foot), Jordan Magee (knee), and Sam Hartman (shoulder) sidelined. Both Newton and Magee are expected to contribute relatively soon, adding to the dynamic mix of the squad. Reflecting on the team’s journey, Brooks mentioned, "You just have to take things in stride the best that you can. When you're working in uncharted or new territory, there's a lot of new experiences for you to have. I think the important thing is just to keep moving forward the best that you can."
Reviewing the game tape has been an integral part of the team's growth, highlighting both stellar plays and critical errors. Ben Sinnott accurately captured this sentiment, noting, "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, a 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."
As the Commanders progress through their preseason, the emphasis on honest reflection and incremental improvement will undoubtedly shape their performance. With the introduction of experienced coaches, a fresh strategic approach, and promising talent on the roster, the Washington Commanders are setting the stage for a season defined by growth and newfound ambition. Quinn's mantra for "Tell the Truth Monday" encapsulates this journey: "Don't harden your heart to the corrections."