Preseason Updates: Washington Commanders

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Updates from Week 2

Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks

The Commanders' second week of camp brought their first real test of the summer: two days of joint practices with the New England Patriots in Foxborough, followed by Friday night's preseason opener at Gillette Stadium. The starters took most of their live reps during Wednesday's competitive sessions, while the exhibition game was largely a showcase for rookies, depth pieces, and players fighting for roster spots. The contrast was sharp, with crisp, competitive work in practice followed by a 48-18 loss marked by penalties and missed opportunities. Jayden Daniels has handled his second NFL camp with the poise and consistency the team expected after last season's breakthrough. Coaches continue to praise his command of Kliff Kingsbury's system, noting how quickly he processes in team drills and how often he makes the right decision under pressure. His rapport with Zach Ertz remains a clear strength, and he has shown comfort using his backs as quick outlets when coverage dictates. Former Washington running back Antonio Gibson, now with New England, called Daniels "special" after watching him work. Kingsbury and Dan Quinn both structured the week to give Daniels' work in the joint practices the weight of a preseason game, and he responded with steady execution. Marcus Mariota is still nursing a lower leg strain but is expected back soon. With Mariota sidelined, Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman split preseason snaps. Johnson was sharper and more efficient, reinforcing his grip on the No. 3 quarterback role. Hartman's outing (9-of-19, 64 yards, 1 INT) reflected what Kingsbury has called an "up and down" camp.

Preseason Updates: Running Backs

Brian Robinson Jr. has looked like a secure No. 1 back all summer, running with authority and showing the vision and decisiveness that made him the focal point of last year's ground game. Austin Ekeler remains the primary complement, giving the offense a reliable receiving outlet and situational runner. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt started the preseason opener with both Robinson and Ekeler held out, handling all early-down snaps in the first quarter. We are loath to overweight preseason praise for late-round picks, but his "quickness" and "ball security," as Quinn described, have made his rise hard to ignore. He now sits as Robinson's direct backup, with Jeremy McNichols positioned for passing-down work when Ekeler rests. Chris Rodriguez Jr. saw limited action and may be on the outside looking in. The running back room has depth, but Croskey-Merritt has done more than anyone to improve his standing over the past two weeks.