Let’s talk about something that rarely gets the attention it deserves: the preseason opener. You know, that game where teams are supposed to experiment, make mistakes, and generally look unpolished. But this year, the Washington Commanders’ 20-7 win over the Dolphins felt less like a dress rehearsal and more like a glimpse into the future. What makes this particularly fascinating is that the Commanders didn’t just win—they did it with a level of discipline and execution that’s usually reserved for regular-season games. This isn’t just a win; it’s a statement. It raises a deeper question: Are we witnessing the emergence of a team that’s finally ready to stop treating the preseason as a glorified practice squad showcase?
One thing that immediately stands out is the lack of sloppiness. In most preseason games, you expect fumbles, missed tackles, and quarterbacks throwing into triple coverage. But here, the Commanders’ second-team defense held Miami scoreless after the opening drive. That’s not just competence—it’s confidence. And confidence in a preseason game? That’s a rare commodity. From my perspective, this suggests the coaching staff’s emphasis on fundamentals is paying off. David Blough and Daronte Jones aren’t just calling vanilla plays; they’re instilling a culture of precision. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the spark the team needed to move beyond the ‘almost’ of recent seasons.
Now, let’s dive into the players who made this game memorable. The rookie running back duo—Fatman Allen and Robert Henry Jr.—were absolute highlights. Allen’s patience and wiggle, paired with Henry’s burst and vision, reminded me of the old-school tandem of a power runner and a speed threat. But what I find especially interesting is how seamlessly they complemented each other. It’s not just their individual skills; it’s the chemistry they’re building. In a league where rookie duos often clash, this partnership feels like a blueprint for success. A detail that I find especially interesting is that both found the end zone. That’s not just luck—it’s a sign of trust in their abilities.
Then there’s Quan Martin, the safety who looked like a starter. His interception on De’Von Achane wasn’t just a play—it was a moment of clarity. Martin didn’t just react; he anticipated. That kind of awareness doesn’t come overnight. It’s the result of hard work, but also a mindset shift. What many people don’t realize is that safeties are the unsung heroes of defensive schemes. They’re the ones who clean up mistakes, but Martin’s performance suggests he’s ready to be the anchor. This raises a broader question: Could Martin be the missing piece in Washington’s secondary puzzle?
On the flip side, the Duds section was a masterclass in why the NFL is still a brutal league. Sam Hartman’s struggles were almost comical. The man doesn’t belong on an NFL field. But here’s the thing: Hartman’s potential as a hair model is a cruel joke. His lack of accuracy, zip, and pocket presence isn’t just a red flag—it’s a warning. If the Commanders aren’t careful, they’ll be stuck with a quarterback who’s more Instagrammable than game-ready. This isn’t just about Hartman; it’s about the team’s willingness to invest in a QB who’s clearly not ready. What this really suggests is that the coaching staff needs to prioritize development over ego.
Johnny Newton’s performance with the starters was equally jarring. He looked like a man out of time, blown off the ball by Miami’s offensive line. But here’s the kicker: Newton’s issue isn’t just physical. It’s mental. He wasn’t reading the field, reacting to blocks, or even looking for open receivers. That’s not just a problem for one game—it’s a red flag for the entire season. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the moment where the Commanders realize they need to rethink their approach to developing young quarterbacks.
The notes section offers a mixed bag. Athan Kaliakmanis outplayed Hartman, which is a relief. But the fact that Kaliakmanis got sacked twice suggests he’s still learning. That’s okay—everyone starts somewhere. But the real concern is the lack of depth at the center position. Julian Good Jones looked overwhelmed, which is a problem when your offensive line is the foundation of your offense. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be the moment where the Commanders realize they need to invest in a center who can anchor the line and protect the quarterback.
In the end, this preseason opener was a microcosm of the Commanders’ season. There’s potential, but it’s still raw. The players who shone—Allen, Henry, Martin, and the rookie center—show what’s possible. But the Duds section is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough. It’s about preparation, coaching, and the willingness to adapt. As I sit here thinking about it, I’m left wondering: Will this be the year the Commanders finally stop playing catch-up and start building something real?
