# Washington Commanders training camp and preseason

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/washington-commanders-training-camp-and-preseason
> Updated: 2026-09-09T09:20:17.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

During the Washington Commanders training camp, head coach Dan Quinn emphasized the importance of veteran safety Jeremy Reaves, describing him as a “remarkable teammate” and “essential” to the team. Reaves secured a one-year contract extension through the 2028 offseason.

Quinn also focused on rookie linebacker Sonny Styles, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Following his preseason debut against the Miami Dolphins, Styles described the experience as a “reality check” after playing a single defensive drive that resulted in a touchdown for Miami. Styles noted a need to improve fundamentals such as footwork and hand usage. He has been working with veteran linebacker Frankie Luvu and wearing the “green dot” helmet to learn defensive communication.

As Styles prepares for his rookie season, former Washington head coach Jay Gruden highlighted the linebacker’s potential versatility, noting his ability to act as a ‘Swiss Army knife’ by covering backs, rushing the passer, and playing sideline-to-sideline. While Gruden suggested Styles may initially struggle with certain blocking schemes, his development is seen as critical to revitalizing a defense that struggled last season. Styles is expected to eventually fill the role previously held by Bobby Wagner, with his first major professional test scheduled for Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 13.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Sonny Styles prepares for rookie season with Washington Commanders

Washington Commanders rookie linebacker Sonny Styles, the No. 7 overall pick, prepares for his NFL debut against the Philadelphia Eagles, aiming to leverage his versatility to bolster the team's defense.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sonny-styles-prepares-for-rookie-season-with-washington-commanders

### 2026-08-19: Sonny Styles critiques preseason debut with Washington Commanders

Washington Commanders rookie linebacker Sonny Styles expressed a desire to improve his footwork and hands following an unsatisfactory preseason debut against the Miami Dolphins.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sonny-styles-critiques-preseason-debut-with-washington-commanders

### 2026-08-04: Washington Commanders Coach Dan Quinn Highlights Jeremy Reaves, Pushes Rookie Sonny Styles to Take Risks

Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn praised veteran safety Jeremy Reaves and urged rookie linebacker Sonny Styles to take more risks during training camp.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/washington-commanders-coach-dan-quinn-highlights-jeremy-reaves-pushes-rookie-sonny-styles-to-take-ri

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Cite as: Washington Commanders training camp and preseason. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/washington-commanders-training-camp-and-preseason