Change is in the air for the Washington Commanders, and it could start with a tougher training camp in 2026. Head coach Dan Quinn has long been known as one of the most player-friendly coaches in the NFL, earning respect for his relationship-building approach and his willingness to give veterans like Zach Ertz and Laremy Tunsil rest days during the week. Even Bobby Wagner, a practice warrior, appreciated the culture—though he rarely missed a session unless injured.

But after a disappointing 5-12 season in 2025, which Quinn himself described as going "terribly," the Commanders may be shifting gears. For years, critics have whispered that Quinn's camps are too easy—a sentiment that followed him from his Atlanta Falcons days and lingered last summer, even after Washington's surprising 12-5 run and NFC Championship appearance in 2024. Perception can be sticky, and while players love the lighter touch, results speak louder.

Now, there's early evidence of a new edge. In a recent rookie minicamp notebook, Zach Selby of commanders.com noted that practice felt "a little more loaded" than in previous years. The afternoon session featured two team periods and two seven-on-seven drills—a clear uptick from what the 2025 rookie class experienced. Quinn hinted at the end of last season that changes were coming to the team's weekly operations, and this could be the first sign of a tougher, more demanding approach.

For Commanders fans, this is an encouraging development. While Quinn's player-first philosophy has its merits, a more intense camp could sharpen the team's edge and set a new tone for 2026. After all, in the NFL, comfort rarely breeds championships. Whether this means more physical practices, longer sessions, or just a higher standard, one thing is clear: the Commanders are ready to turn the page.