After two weeks of competing against each other, the Washington Commanders got the chance to test their mettle against NFL opposition for the first time since their fairytale run in 2024 concluded. Joint practice against the New England Patriots was first on the agenda, which will be swiftly followed by Friday night's preseason encounter.
Dan Quinn stated beforehand that the starters wouldn't be involved at Gillette Stadium. That's the right call, and it also meant established pros would get plenty of time on the field to hone their skills in a heated setting versus New England — a team expected to be much more competitive this season with Mike Vrabel leading the charge.