Jayden Daniels sparkled during a high-profile joint practice against the Miami Dolphins in Ashburn, Virginia, showcasing a rapid command of a new offensive system under coordinator David Blough while flashing a potent early connection with newly signed wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
The Washington Commanders hosted the Miami Dolphins for a joint training camp workout Wednesday at their Ashburn facility, marking the first time the franchise has worked against an opposing team since the conclusion of their 2025 season (the outlet reported). For Daniels, the afternoon served as a crucial proving ground. Following an injury-shortened second season that ended in December when the franchise opted to protect him by sitting him for the final three games, the quarterback looked eager to establish a new baseline as detailed in sports reporting.
Building Chemistry With Stefon Diggs in Ashburn
The headline development of the morning was the immediate chemistry between Daniels and Diggs, who signed with Washington just last week.
“He goes out and makes plays. He brings energy. He’s a leader. I’m super happy to have Stefon in that room, not just for the offense but just for the whole team in general.”
Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders quarterback
Diggs brings veteran polish to an offensive room that lost key pieces from previous seasons.
Adapting to David Blough’s Under-Center Offense
Beyond personnel additions, Wednesday offered the clearest look yet at Washington’s offensive evolution under first-year coordinator David Blough. Moving away from the shotgun-heavy approach of past seasons, Daniels spent nearly all of his 11-on-11 snaps playing from under center sports.yahoo.com.
Analysts point out that the scheme shift is designed to keep Daniels more protected within the pocket following a 2025 campaign disrupted by knee and elbow injuries according to league reports. Daniels acknowledged that mastering the new terminology and footwork remains an ongoing daily process as he told reporters.
“As reps and time go on, you get more of a grasp and a feel for who can run what route, how Blough is supposed to call it. This is what practice is for. Day by day, I try to come in and have control of the offense and get 1% better.”
Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders quarterback
Roster Battles and Trenches Highlighted by Dolphins Matchup
Up front, Washington’s offensive line held its own against the Miami pass rush the Miami Herald observed, despite playing without star left tackle Laremy Tunsil, who is sidelined following surgery for a left arm injury according to team updates.
Final Drills Highlight Areas for Growth
Despite a dominant performance in individual and red-zone periods—where Daniels completed 11 of 13 passes in 1-on-1s and hit Burks for a deep 70-yard score reporters noted—the session ended with a defensive stand by Miami during a two-minute drill the team’s official notebook recorded. That late stop kept the Commanders out of the end zone and provided a timely reminder that the team is still rounding into form ahead of Friday’s preseason opener at Northwest Stadium the Washington Post confirmed.
“I wouldn’t say we’re in midseason form. You wouldn’t want to be in midseason form right now. … I still got some ways to go. We have explosive plays, but a lot is not perfect. I’m still working.”
Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders quarterback
Daniels added that the team continues to refine its execution and timing as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming preseason game.
