NFL Training Camps: Herbert Debuts New Footwork as Daniel Jones Returns

During NFL training camps, Justin Herbert adjusted his shotgun stance to lead with his left foot while Daniel Jones returned to team drills 7.5 months after Achilles surgery.

NFL training camps for the 2026 season are underway with 12 teams currently under evaluation, including the Chargers, Commanders, and Colts. In El Segundo, California, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is implementing a major mechanical change under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. Herbert has shifted his shotgun stance to place his left foot forward instead of his right to accelerate his release time. Head coach Jim Harbaugh noted that Herbert is already asking "AP questions" usually reserved for veterans with four years in the system. The Chargers roster features returning healthy tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, alongside new additions like center Tyler Biadasz, fullback Alec Ingold, and tight end Charlie Kolar.

In Indianapolis, quarterback Daniel Jones participated in 20 snaps during a 90-minute practice session just 7.5 months after undergoing Achilles surgery. General manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen have not restricted Jones’ reps, maintaining a full playbook that includes rollouts and play-action from under center. Last season, the Colts averaged 2.94 points per drive with Jones at the helm, a mark that matches the 2011 Saints for the sixth-highest efficiency of the century. However, Jones' performance under pressure remains a focal point; he led the league in EPA per pressured dropback through the first seven weeks of last year before falling to 32nd from Week 8 onward.

Commanders Defensive and Offensive Adjustments

At the Washington Commanders camp in Ashburn, Virginia, head coach Dan Quinn is pushing rookie linebacker Sonny Styles to be more aggressive. Styles, the No. 7 overall pick, demonstrated his range on Monday by closing a 10-yard gap to record a pass breakup. Quinn is encouraging the rookie to take more risks in zone coverage to utilize his long reach. On the offensive side, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has added "armor" to his frame and displayed elite ball placement during Monday's session. Daniels connected with Terry McLaurin for two touchdowns, one in the corner of the end zone and another over the middle. McLaurin, entering his eighth season in Washington, reported clocking a top speed of 22 mph during camp drills.

Chargers Roster Depth and Personnel Moves

The Chargers are utilizing a trio of running backs led by 2025 first-round pick Omarion Hampton. Free agent signing Keaton Mitchell is being integrated as a change-of-pace option and passing-game threat alongside Kimani Vidal. On the offensive line, the team is holding a three-way competition for the starting left guard position between rookie Jake Slaughter, Trey Pipkins III, and Trevor Penning. Depth at tackle is provided by rookie Travis Burke and veteran Kayode Awosika. Defensively, first-round rookie Akheem Mesidor is rotating at edge rusher behind Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu. Tuipulotu, who recorded 13 sacks in 2025, participated in individual drills on Friday but sat out team periods amidst ongoing contract discussions.

Commanders Receiving Corps and Special Schemes

Washington is currently monitoring free agent wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who is coming off a 1,000-yard season in New England. Tight end Chig Okonkwo has emerged as a primary target behind McLaurin, with the veteran receiver describing Okonkwo as a player who runs routes like a wideout. The Commanders are also evaluating Treylon Burks as a red-zone threat, while rookie Antonio Williams and Dyami Brown compete for snaps. Offensive coordinator David Blough is introducing creative elements to the scheme, including trick plays where receivers Brown and Luke McCaffrey may be required to throw the ball. On defense, cornerback Mike Sainristil recorded multiple pass breakups during Monday's practice, while edge rusher Odafe Oweh has impressed staff since joining in free agency.