Javon Kinlaw arrived at the Washington Commanders’ 2025 training camp noticeably leaner and more explosive, signaling a promising transformation for the defensive lineman. This change, evident in his on-field drills, reflects Kinlaw’s hard work away from the team and points to a renewed commitment that could significantly impact the Commanders’ defense this season.
Kinlaw’s New Physical Condition Impresses at Camp
Standing 6-foot-5 with a traditionally broad, muscular frame, Javon Kinlaw appeared in Ashburn this summer with a much leaner physique than the 319 pounds listed during his earlier career stages. This striking change caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike, as Kinlaw demonstrated impressive explosiveness and agility during early camp workouts.
Such physical transformation did not happen by chance. Kinlaw has reportedly been dedicating serious effort to improve his conditioning during the offseason, which has visibly paid off in his performance. The former South Carolina standout’s refined focus and athleticism were exactly what the Commanders’ leadership, including coach Ryan Peters, envisioned when they invested heavily in him as a free agent.
Washington’s Strategic Veteran Acquisitions Influence Camp Dynamics
The Commanders also welcomed veteran edge rusher Von Miller, a key acquisition aimed at boosting pass-rushing depth and raising the overall level of the defensive front. Miller’s versatility—able to rush both standing and from a three-point stance—adds valuable dimension to the team‘s defensive schemes.
Linebacker Frankie Luvu, who has studied Miller’s techniques closely, stands to benefit from this mentorship, allowing him to increase the unpredictability of his pass rush moves. Head coach Dan Quinn highlighted the importance of Miller’s detail-oriented approach to rushing the passer and emphasized the team’s intention to manage Miller’s workload carefully to maintain his health throughout the demanding season.
“I just like having a deep crew of guys that can be versatile and do things,”
Quinn said.
“I also like the detail that he gets into as a pass rusher.”
Von Miller: Veteran Pass Rusher Ready to Contribute
Von Miller, now 36, expressed confidence in his enduring ability to disrupt quarterbacks, underscoring his eagerness to continue his pass-rushing impact with Washington. His one-year contract, reportedly worth $6.1 million plus incentives, reflects the team’s desire to add proven playmakers as they chase a Super Bowl opportunity.
Miller comes to Washington after a successful career spanning multiple franchises and two Super Bowl titles, with over 129 career sacks to his name. The veteran’s situational usage in the Commanders’ deeper defensive rotation underscores a strategic approach to optimize pass-rushing effectiveness while managing player health.
“Let me rush, that’s what I do,”
Miller said.
“I can still roll out of bed at 36 years old with my shoes on and rush the passer. I can do that right when I wake up fresh out of sleep. I love rushing the passer.”
Key Roster Battles and Emerging Talents at Training Camp
Training camp has served as a proving ground for young players seeking roles, including offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr., who seized opportunities during a veteran’s day off for left tackle veteran Laremy Tunsil. Conerly, just 21 years old and the youngest player at camp, showed glimpses of promise despite facing challenges against seasoned pass rushers.
Coach Quinn emphasized that competition for starting roles will remain intense, and playing time will be strategically distributed to evaluate matchups and player readiness. Conerly’s commitment and work ethic have garnered praise from leadership, offering hope that he may secure a role sooner rather than later.
“We’re going to compete for this for a while,”
Quinn stated.
“I’m really encouraged by Josh’s work ethic.”
Meanwhile, on special teams, veteran running back Austin Ekeler and rookies Jaylin Lane and Kazmeir Allen rotated through punt return drills. Lane, in particular, earned accolades for his polished approach from special teams expert Jeremy Reeves.
Brandon Coleman Adapts to New Role Guarding the Offensive Line
Veteran tight end Brandon Coleman is also adjusting his game by transitioning to the guard position, a move requiring him to develop different physical and technical skills. The shift demands a more aggressive, up-close style of play, likened to a wrestling match by coaches, where patience gives way to attack and strength.
“It’s really about feeling it back out, like getting my body back used to it, building that muscle memory … You’re not as elongated as a tackle. You’re not waiting and being patient. It’s about attacking and [it’s] basically like a wrestling match.”
The Commanders continue to rotate players along the offensive line to identify their best combinations, with no definitive starting roles guaranteed, ensuring competitive readiness across the unit.
Von Miller Describes Joining the Commanders as a ‘Good Marriage’
Miller’s decision to sign with Washington followed a thoughtful evaluation of the team’s potential to contend for a championship. Balancing family duties and a strong desire to win, he considered the Commanders a suitable environment for prolonging his career with purpose.
“You just can’t leave Josh Allen and just can’t go from, you know, the AFC championship, and just go anywhere,”
Miller reflected.
“And whenever you get older, too, losses, they like, pile up. It seems like it just hit way harder than what they used to when you were young. This team is all about winning. I’m all about winning. Whatever it takes to win, I’m gonna do. … There’s nothing like winning. There’s nothing like the locker room. There’s nothing like coming in here and talking to you guys after a win.”
“The goal is to win them all. But in reality, you know, we’re gonna have some struggles, and we’ll have some adversity. That’s all good, too. … Sometimes, most of the time, adversity reveals character, and it’s all goodness at the end of the day, and they’ll all just feed back into the main goal, and that’s the end. So this team’s all about winning. I’m all about winning, and it was a good marriage.”
Wide Receiver Ja’Corey Brooks Impresses Early in Camp
Ja’Corey Brooks, a rookie receiver with a notable college career at Alabama and Louisville, has quickly caught attention in Washington’s receiver room. Despite heavy competition from established veterans like Michael Gallup and KJ Osborn, Brooks has impressed coaches with his consistent scoring ability and downfield catching during seven-on-seven drills.
Brooks’ productive start, including two touchdowns early in camp, positions him as a viable candidate for the limited spots available in the receivers’ rotation. He will need to maintain this momentum through preseason camp, which features joint practices with the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens.
Mike Sainristil Returns to Nickel Role, Excelling Early
The Commanders are also seeing strong performances from second-round pick Mike Sainristil, who thrived last season as a rookie. His move back to the nickel cornerback spot, where he excelled in college, appears to maximize his abilities, allowing him to demonstrate agility and playmaking instincts. With competition for outside cornerback roles between veterans and rookies, Sainristil’s standout play in the slot offers Washington confidence in his rising potential.
Standout Performances Highlight Early Camp Practices
Among others, Chris Moore has emerged as a leading candidate for a receiver spot, stepping up in Terry McLaurin’s absence with precise route running and reliable hands. Meanwhile, tight end Jackson is developing into a weapon in the red zone thanks to his sizeable frame and versatility, contending for a roster spot alongside Colson Yankoff.
Commanders Restructure Stadium Agreement to Include Expanded Community Benefits
In off-field developments, the Commanders and the District of Columbia renegotiated their stadium deal to include $50 million in community funding, aimed at supporting local youth sports programs, and expanding housing development plans on the stadium campus to approximately 6,000 units. This revised agreement intensifies the scope beyond the original pact and underscores the team’s commitment to city engagement.
The plan to build a domed stadium at the historic RFK site remains a major private investment milestone for the District, expected to be greenlit following upcoming public hearings and a council vote scheduled for early August.
“We feel we have a much-improved agreement,”
said D.C. Council chair Phil Mendelson.
“It’s clear that the Commanders showed through their negotiations their commitment to the District, and their willingness to consider what’s in the best interest of our citizens.”
“We’re not trading housing for a stadium—we’re using the momentum of the stadium to build more housing,”
said D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.
“It’s a win for our team, our city, and our residents.”
Safety Percy Butler Secures One-Year Extension with Commanders
The Commanders agreed to a one-year contract extension with Percy Butler, who has been a consistent presence in the team’s secondary since joining as a 2022 fourth-round pick. Butler’s tenure includes 50 game appearances, 18 starts, and contributions such as 127 tackles and 10 passes defensed. His experience will complement the safety group, which includes veterans like Will Harris, Quan Martin, and Jeremy Reaves.
Commanders’ 2025 Camp Features Competitive Spirit and Depth Development
Washington’s 2025 training camp showcases a roster in transition, combining veteran experience with exciting young prospects. The team’s staff remains focused on evaluating talent across positions while building chemistry among new and returning players. This approach underscores the Commanders’ goal of rising as a contender in their division and making a deep playoff push.
With Javon Kinlaw demonstrating a leaner and more explosive form, combined with Von Miller’s seasoned pass-rushing skills and emerging talent in skill positions, Washington is positioning itself for an intense season ahead. Upcoming preseason matchups, including joint practices with NFC and <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/afc/”>AFC rivals, will offer further insights into how these pieces might fit together on the path toward sustained success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Javon Kinlaw a good run stopper?
A. Kinlaw is often seen as more effective in rushing the passer than stopping the run. Many have criticized his run defense abilities. However, after watching five of his games, I’ve noticed he shows promise as a run defender as well.
Q. How good is Javon Kinlaw?
A. While playing, Kinlaw achieved All-American status in the National Junior College Athletic Association and won the MACJA South Division MVP award. He made 8.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.