Commanders face urgent corrections after lopsided preseason finale
Washington's backups were routed 41-3 by Baltimore, capping a preseason marked by uneven play and a joint practice where the Ravens' starters dominated. Coach Dan Quinn rested most key players, but the team's depth and offensive line depth remain concerns, especially with star tackle Laremy Tunsil injured. The Commanders open against Philadelphia in two weeks, and their early schedule is unforgiving.
Washington’s preseason finale saw 41 players rested, leaving backups exposed in a 41-3 rout. The joint practice earlier in the week had already revealed mismatches, with Baltimore’s starters controlling play against Washington’s available first-teamers. Coach Dan Quinn acknowledged the need to reduce errors after installing heavy offensive and defensive packages during camp. Injuries compound the issues: tackle Laremy Tunsil’s triceps problem and center Nick Allegretti’s calf strain leave the offensive line thin, with unproven options like Julian Good-Jones and Matt Gulbin struggling in relief. The team’s decision to release Tyler Biadasz in the spring now looks riskier given the current uncertainty at center.
This story could affect fan confidence and early-season expectations for Washington, as the team faces a demanding opening stretch against Philadelphia and other contenders. Depth concerns, especially on the offensive line, may influence roster moves and game outcomes, potentially shaping the franchise’s trajectory in a competitive division. For players on the bubble, the preseason’s poor showing could determine their careers, while coaches and management face pressure to correct issues quickly. The broader impact may be felt in ticket sales, media scrutiny, and the team’s ability to build momentum in a pivotal season.