The Commanders opened their preseason with a home win over the Dolphins, and Dan Quinn had plenty to point to afterward: a crowd that showed up loud at Northwest Stadium, rookies making their mark, and a few early signs from a roster still taking shape.
Quinn said it mattered to get the first game in front of the fans, especially with Washington having only one more home game before the end of next month. The energy in the building was part of the night, and so were the new faces.
Marcus Mariota started at quarterback for Washington’s second unit, but he left early after apparently hurting his knee. Quinn said he did not have an update on Mariota’s condition and would know more when he speaks to the media again on Sunday.
The rookie class also got its first real taste of NFL action, and several of the Commanders’ young players made it count. Sonny Styles and Antonio Williams, Washington’s top two picks this year, both flashed in the opener. Quinn said Styles showed the same technique and speed he’s displayed throughout camp.
Rookie running backs Kaytron Allen and Robert Henry Jr. also found the end zone, giving Quinn another reason to highlight the group’s progress. He pointed to both backs stepping up and scoring their first touchdowns.
The night also tied into the broader changes around the team, with Quinn addressing the impact of new coordinators and the way the offense is being shaped under David Blough. He also touched on the receiver room, including Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs.
Beyond the rookies, Quinn mentioned several other players and themes from the night: Quan Martin and the idea that “You gotta make the most what the snaps you get”, Antonio Hamilton, Shy Tuttle, and the way Robert Henry Jr. and Kaytron Allen each brought a different feel to the backfield, with Henry described as a twitchy back. Quinn also referenced the team’s joint practice and said the preseason setting is part of learning to slow the game down.
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