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The team from the 202 will open up their preseason slate against the New England Patriots on Friday night with depth on full display.
With Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota sidelined, according to Coach Dan Quinn, Friday night’s preseason opener against the Patriots becomes a showcase for Sam Hartman and Josh Johnson, who, at 39, is the NFL’s ultimate journeyman. Johnson’s played for 14 teams and thrown passes in three different leagues. His experience and ability to mentor younger players make him a stabilizing force in the locker room. Johnson has even led the Washington Commanders to win before, as he picked up his first NFL win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in a come-from-behind win in 2018.
Sam Hartman, 26, is fresh off a record-breaking college career. After five seasons at Wake Forest and one at Notre Dame, he finished with over 15,000 passing yards and 134 touchdowns, ranking among the top 20 in FBS history. Now, he’s trying to prove he can translate that production to the NFL. Hartman was on the Commanders’ practice squad last season and had one appearance in the preseason, where he went 8/13 with 83 passing yards. Hartman has had an “up and down” camp but will look to showcase his improvement this go around.
Hartman’s rhythm against the Patriots will be the most important thing to keep an eye on. Washington’s wide receiver room has started developing questions around its depth as their star WR has held out of camp, and Noah Brown is injured. Hartman can control how he operates under center, so he can help himself there if his wideouts aren’t performing. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has praised Hartman’s intelligence and footwork but noted inconsistency in camp. Friday is his chance to show he’s developing for the pro stage.
Johnson’s command is what to look for from the vet. He should be more than comfortable with the speed of the NFL game. Johnson’s ability to run the offense smoothly and connect with fringe receivers like Ja’Corey Brooks and Luke McCaffrey could give him the edge. When it comes to both QBs, ball security & decision-making will be judged on how well they protect the football and execute under pressure.
Kazmeir Allen has had a sneaky good camp with the second team. The UDFA signed last year is a versatile weapon who can line up in the slot, backfield, or even return game. His speed and elusiveness make him a preseason X-factor. Ben Sinnott is another player to watch. The second-year tight end has impressed with his route-running and blocking toughness. He’s pushing for TE2 reps behind Zach Ertz. The Commanders’ 2025 fourth-round pick, Jaylin Lane, is slated as the starting punt returner. His quickness and field vision could earn him offensive snaps. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a seventh-round rookie who’s surged in camp. His downhill style and burst could push veterans like Chris Rodriguez Jr. off the roster.
With no starters expected to suit up, Washington’s defensive depth will be front and center. Secondary standout, Trey Amos, the rookie corner, has had a flawless camp and is already listed as a starter. His press coverage and ball skills will be tested against New England’s backups. Car’Lin Vigers is an undrafted rookie who’s quietly climbed the depth chart. Coaches see him as a sleeper who could earn a roster spot. Tyler Owens is a hybrid safety-linebacker, is fighting for a final roster spot, and has impressed in camp before. Quan Martin has been developing into a stud. His instincts give the Commanders flexibility in coverage, and he’s made plays in New England before.
On the edge, Javontae Jean-Baptiste, a speedy edge rusher who’s flashed in camp, is a guy to watch. With Wagner and Luvu sitting out, Washington’s young linebackers are under the spotlight. Rookie Kain Medrano, formerly viewed as a safety hybrid, is now locked into the linebacker role and showing promise in coverage. Jordan Magee, back from injury, has flashed speed and awareness in camp, earning praise from coaches. Kam Arnold, a physical tackler from Boston College, has quietly made his case for run-heavy packages and special teams. Friday night will reveal who’s ready to rise.
Friday night’s game isn’t just a preseason warm-up; it’s a proving ground. Hartman and Johnson will be judged not just on throws, but on how they elevate the talent around them. Sinnott and Allen represent the kind of versatile, position-less playmakers the Commanders are embracing. While on defense, the backups are out to prove they’re more than just depth, they’re difference-makers.
Whether it’s a clutch third-down stop, a strip sack, or a game-changing punt return, someone from this group will make a statement. Washington isn’t just building a roster—they’re building a culture of readiness.
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