Washington Commanders want to give rookies more playing time

The Washington Commanders threw first-round rookie Jayden Daniels in the deep end by making him the starting quarterback in Week 1.

However, they took a more methodical approach for second-round defensive tackle Johnny Newton and third-round offensive tackle Brandon Coleman.

Newton sat out the opener but played 12 snaps in a win over the New York Giants, while Coleman has had a few drives in both games so far. Coach Dan Quinn hopes to integrate them better into the system and give them more playing time as the season progresses.

“Both of those guys need game practice and that’s why I’m glad it’s finally happening,” Quinn said. “We had to battle some injuries with both of them early on, but we knew then, if you remember what I talked about, that this wasn’t the end of the season and things like that. And it was frustrating for them at the time and for us. But the good news now is, OK, those players are behind us and we’re progressing and they’re gaining more experience as we go along.”

The more playing time Newton and Coleman get, the better they will become as individuals and as a team as a whole. They represent the future of the Commanders, so their continued development will be a welcome sign for the team.

Stay with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2024 season.

• Commanders cornerback gives update after surgery

• Commanders release first injury report ahead of Bengals game

• Commanders’ Jayden Daniels develops into franchise QB

• Commanders’ Terry McLaurin and Daron Payne perform poorly on financial metrics