Highlights and takeaways from Week 2 of OTAs

The Washington Commanders just completed their second week of OTAs last week with one more session this week. Then, Washington wraps up the offseason with a mandatory minicamp on June 14-16 before breaking for training camp in July.

As with every team this time of year, optimism reigns supreme for all 32 NFL teams. Things are no different in Washington. While some in the media continue to mock the Carson Wentz trade, the Commanders expect big things from their new quarterback.

Here are some of the highlights and takeaways from Week 2 of Washington’s OTAs in what was a busy week in Ashburn.

Chase Young & Montez Sweat are back

Washington Commanders defensive end Montez Sweat (90). (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Head coach Ron Rivera was happy when starting defensive ends Montez Sweat and Chase Young reported for Week 2 of OTAs after missing the first week. Young remained in Colorado, working on his rehab from a knee injury, while Sweat was out for personal reasons. Young expressed optimism about his recovery but did not promise a timeframe.

Rivera spoke of the growth he expects from Young and Sweat in 2022.

“I think his presence,” Rivera initially said of Sweat. “I think as far as his skillset goes, it’s understanding how to use it. He’s got a tremendous skillset, he really does, and as he continues to grow and learn and understand how to use it, he becomes more and more dynamic as well. I think it’s the same thing with Chase. Once we get Chase back on the field it is understanding how to use his skillset, not just the raw power that he has, or the athleticism. For Montez, it’s the same thing.”

Benjamin St-Juste playing the slot?

May 24, 2022; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Commanders defensive back Benjamin St-Juste (25). Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Last week, it was a surprise when 6-foot-3 cornerback Benjamin St-Juste was practicing at slot cornerback….