Commanders Open Training Camp With Key Defensive Players on PUP List
By Brian Hradsky | Maryland Sports Blog
The Washington Commanders officially opened the next phase of their 2026 season by announcing several roster moves ahead of training camp, with three important defensive contributors landing on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
Cornerback Trey Amos, defensive end Dorance Armstrong, and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. were all placed on the Active/PUP list, while rookie cornerback Fred Davis II was placed on the Active/Non-Football Illness (NFI) list. The moves allow Washington to begin camp cautiously as players continue recovering from injuries sustained during the 2025 season.
Good News Despite the Headlines
Although seeing several starters on the PUP list can be concerning, there is an important distinction.
These players were placed on the Active/PUP list, not the regular-season Reserve/PUP list. They remain on the 90-man roster, can attend meetings, participate in walkthroughs, work with trainers, and take part in every team activity except full-speed practices. They may be activated immediately once the medical staff clears them.
If any player remains on the PUP list when teams reduce their rosters to 53 players, they could then be transferred to Reserve/PUP, which would require them to miss at least the first four regular-season games. Washington hopes that will not be necessary.
Trey Amos Looking to Continue His Development
Perhaps the most notable name is second-year cornerback Trey Amos.
After being selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Ole Miss, Amos showed encouraging flashes during his rookie campaign before suffering a fractured fibula in Week 10 against the Detroit Lions. The injury prematurely ended what had been a promising first NFL season.
The Commanders expect Amos to compete for a major role in the secondary once healthy. His size, athleticism, and ability to play press coverage make him one of Washington’s most intriguing young defensive backs.
Dorance Armstrong’s Return Will Be Critical
Dorance Armstrong remains one of the leaders of Washington’s defensive front.
Before suffering a season-ending knee injury against the Dallas Cowboys last season, Armstrong led the Commanders in sacks and consistently generated pressure off the edge. His absence was noticeable during the second half of the year, making his recovery one of the biggest storylines entering camp.
A healthy Armstrong gives Washington an experienced pass rusher capable of helping anchor a defense with playoff aspirations.
Deatrich Wise Jr. Continues Recovery
Veteran defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. is also working back from a quadriceps injury suffered early last season.
Wise was one of Washington’s key veteran free-agent additions before the 2025 season, bringing championship experience and versatility after a successful career with New England. When healthy, he provides valuable depth against both the run and the pass.
Rookie Fred Davis II on NFI List
Undrafted rookie cornerback Fred Davis II begins his first NFL training camp on the Active/Non-Football Illness list.
Unlike the PUP designation, the NFI list is reserved for illnesses or injuries not directly related to NFL football activities. Davis also remains on the active roster and can return once he is medically cleared.
What It Means for Washington
Washington’s coaching staff would undoubtedly prefer to have its full defensive unit available when camp begins, but none of these moves should be viewed as long-term setbacks at this point.
Training camp often begins with organizations exercising caution, particularly with veterans and players recovering from significant injuries. The Active/PUP designation allows players additional recovery time without rushing them into practice.
If Amos, Armstrong, and Wise are able to return during camp, the Commanders should still have ample time to prepare their defense before the regular season opens.
MSB Analysis
This is a situation worth monitoring rather than worrying about.
Armstrong is arguably the biggest name on the list because of his impact as Washington’s top pass rusher before his injury. Amos represents an important piece of the franchise’s future in the secondary, while Wise adds veteran stability to the defensive line rotation.
The Commanders’ defensive depth will receive an early test during training camp practices, giving younger players additional opportunities to impress while the veterans continue their rehabilitation.
For now, Washington appears to be prioritizing patience over urgency—a smart approach with the regular season still weeks away.
