The Washington Commanders are coming off one of their best seasons in decades, finishing with 12 regular-season wins and reaching the NFC Championship game. With excitement at an all-time high, the big question for tonight’s preseason opener against the New England Patriots is whether or not quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Commanders’ starters will take the field.
Are Jayden Daniels and the Commanders’ Starters Playing Against New England?
NFL teams, especially the good ones, often rest their starters during the preseason to avoid injuries before the regular season. With the Commanders returning their quarterback and coaching staff for 2025, head coach Dan Quinn has decided not to play Daniels or any of the starters in tonight’s matchup against the Patriots.
Jayden Daniels & starters won’t play on Friday vs the #Patriots, per HC Dan Quinn. #RaiseHail
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) August 6, 2025
It makes sense for the Commanders’ coaching staff to hold back the starters, as most of them have already proven their worth. After hitting a home run with their 2024 first-round pick in Daniels, the quarterback position is no longer a question mark.
Both offense and defense are mainly staffed with veterans, while the younger starters have already shown they belong.
With the starters sitting out tonight, it’s a great opportunity for some unproven younger players to step up and make an impact.
Which Young Commanders Will Get Their Chance Tonight?
Veteran quarterback Josh Johnson will start tonight’s game, but 2024 undrafted rookie free agent signee Sam Hartman will also get some playing time.
Several young offensive players are expected to see action as well, including 2024 third-round pick wide receiver Luke McCaffrey, younger brother of 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey, and 2025 undrafted free agent wideout Ja’Corey Brooks, who is set to make his NFL debut.
Jayden Daniels with a pretty ball to Luke McCaffrey during today’s training camp practice pic.twitter.com/GSO8qJMPUW
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) July 28, 2025
Washington’s 2025 first-round pick, offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr., will also make his NFL debut against the Patriots tonight.
Running backs Jeremy McNichols, Chris Rodriguez Jr., and Jacory Croskey-Merritt will share carries. At the same time, second-year tight end and 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott is expected to see playing time.
On defense, fans should watch for 2024 second-round pick defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton and 2025 second-round pick cornerback Trey Amos, who will be making his first NFL appearance.
The Commanders are well-positioned for success in 2025, boasting a talented roster on both sides of the ball. While the starters won’t be playing, tonight’s game against New England will offer a valuable opportunity to evaluate the team’s depth and get a closer look at some of their promising young players who could be poised for a breakout season.
Washington’s game against the Patriots starts at 7:30 p.m. EST and won’t be aired on national television. Fans with NFL+ or those in local markets can watch the game.
