ASHBURN, Va. — From the 40-yard dash, to the broad jump, the three-cone shuffle, and the quarterback arm challenge, the military took over Washington Commanders practice on day five of training camp.
In the team's bubble in Ashburn, active military and veterans got the chance to train like Commanders in a mock combine.
"It's definitely making me feel my age," said Shaun Marable. He spent 22 years with the Coast Guard and came out Monday to have some fun and enjoy the comradery.
"Everybody has different skillsets and talents from a diverse background so you kind of appreciate everyone for what they bring to the table," Marable said. "I get enjoyment from building others up, so that's what I'm out here to do today."
The mock combine was part of Military Appreciation Day and the USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp. The team hosted 100 military members based in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Marable said days like this put into perspective just how hard NFL players work.
"You don't think about how much they actually have to do, and all the preparation and planning and training because on tv they make it look easy," he explained. "Oh you're just catching footballs, but no, having to do all of this behind the scenes? Yeah, you appreciate it."
That feeling of appreciation and respect was reciprocated from top players like Bobby Wagner.
"Anytime they come out I think it's amazing, what they do is really really special… show the love and appreciation for what they do," Wagner said.