11 instant reactions from Commanders' preseason loss against the Lions

The Washington Commanders continued their preparations for the 2026 campaign with a preseason RESULT against the Detroit Lions. And as always, there was a lot to unpack.

Quarterback Jayden Daniels and the starters got one series, but it was underwhelming. The Commanders gave the large majority of work to those lower down the depth chart once again, and there were a few flashes despite both coordinators not giving too much away.

It's a big campaign for Washington. And it's a precarious situation.

Head coach Dan Quinn wants his squad to bounce back, but there is enough evidence to suggest that a few problem areas could hold them back. There is still time to rectify any issues, which the Commanders' coaching staff will aim to do over the next few weeks before their Week 1 opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.

That's for the not-too-distant future. For now, here are 11 instant reactions from Washington's warm-up defeat at Ford Field in Detroit.

Instant reactions from the Washington Commanders' preseason loss against the Detroit Lions

Commanders' offensive line is going to be a problem

Not having five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil available is already being felt along the offensive line. The starting unit, or those who were healthy, got some early work against the Lions. And it didn't look good.

Jayden Daniels was sacked, and everything just looked a little shaky. The backup options don't exactly leave reasons for optimism either, so just how much longer general manager Adam Peters will tolerate this before taking action remains to be seen.

Joshua Josephs continues to excel, but he's still a rookie

It's starting to look like the Commanders may have a steal on their hands in fifth-round edge rusher Joshua Josephs. The Tennessee product continued his recent positive momentum with a solid overall display against Detroit. However, there was one moment that he would like to have back.

Josephs bit on a fake, giving Lions quarterback Joshua Dobbs acres of space to break off a rushing touchdown. This is all part of the learning experience, but the first-year pro can be satisfied with his efforts, which also included a touchdown.

Tyler Owens is going enough to make the Commanders' roster

There have been growing signs at training camp that defensive coordinator Daronte Jones sees something in Tyler Owens. The versatile safety is being used all over the field, which the Commanders hope can maximize the exceptional athletic traits he brings to the table.

Owens once again flashed what he might be capable of within Jones' defense at Ford Field. His early statement to blow up a running back coming off the edge was first class. And even though he was primarily playing against second- and third-string players, it would be deeply disappointing if he didn't find his way onto the 53-man roster for the third straight year.

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