The Washington Commanders shook up their preseason schedule this week, announcing the cancellation of a planned joint practice session while simultaneously making a series of roster moves and giving one of their top rookies an extended spotlight.
The joint practice, originally set to be held with the New York Jets ahead of their upcoming preseason matchup, was called off late Tuesday night. Head coach Dan Quinn cited a combination of logistical challenges and a desire to prioritize player health as key reasons for the decision. “We’re at a point in camp where managing workloads is critical,” Quinn explained. “We want our guys fresh and ready for game action, and sometimes that means adjusting the plan.”
While joint practices are often seen as valuable opportunities to test schemes against unfamiliar opposition, the Commanders opted for an in-house session at their Ashburn facility instead. The change allowed coaches to focus on fine-tuning specific areas without the unpredictability of an opposing squad. Several veterans welcomed the decision, noting that avoiding the heightened intensity of joint practices could reduce the risk of injury.
In addition to the scheduling change, Washington’s front office stayed busy with roster adjustments. The Commanders released veteran defensive tackle Chris McCullers and waived wide receiver Keith Harmon, opening two spots on the 90-man roster. Those vacancies were quickly filled with the signings of linebacker Jamal Rivers, a special teams standout from the CFL, and offensive tackle Ben Crenshaw, who spent time with the Chicago Bears last season.
The roster shuffle appears to be part of a broader strategy to bolster depth in key areas ahead of final preseason cuts. With just two exhibition games remaining, competition is intensifying for the final few spots on the 53-man roster. Rivers in particular is expected to make an immediate push on special teams, where Washington has struggled with consistency.
Perhaps the most notable development, however, came in the form of rookie wide receiver Jalen Morris taking center stage during the restructured practice. Morris, a third-round pick out of Tennessee, drew rave reviews for his crisp route running and strong hands. With starting wideout Terry McLaurin resting a minor ankle injury, Morris was elevated into the first-team offense and quickly made the most of the opportunity.
In seven-on-seven drills, the rookie hauled in multiple contested catches, including a deep ball over veteran corner Kendall Fuller that had teammates buzzing. “Jalen’s a gamer,” quarterback Sam Howell said afterward. “He’s been getting better every week, and you can see his confidence growing. When the ball’s in the air, he believes it’s his.”
Coaches have praised Morris’s ability to quickly grasp the playbook, a trait that could accelerate his role in the offense once the regular season begins. Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy hinted that the rookie might see action with the starters during Saturday’s preseason game, calling him “a player who’s earning more opportunities by the day.”
The Commanders’ decision to cancel the joint practice may have disappointed some fans eager for the drama and intensity such sessions often bring. Still, the move allowed the team to control its practice tempo, implement new wrinkles in its schemes, and give rising talents like Morris an expanded stage. With roster cuts looming and Week 1 fast approaching, Washington’s blend of caution, competition, and player development could prove pivotal in shaping its 2025 campaign
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