Commanders stock report following preseason opener vs Panthers

Stock down: Taylor Heinicke

Heinicke has become somewhat of an afterthought in Washington’s quarterback room with Wentz stealing all the headlines and rookie Sam Howell showing off his arm strength and deep ball accuracy in training camp. Still the backup until proven otherwise, Heinicke tossed a bad-looking interception when he overthrew an open Kyric McGowan. Heinicke was pressured on the play, but that’s no excuse for a quarterback with his experience.

Stock up: Phidarian Mathis

It was an afternoon to forget for the Commanders’ front seven. With fans in need of someone to flash, Mathis gave them just when he blew past a Panthers guard and gobbled up running back Spencer Brown for a minimal gain. Yes, it was only one play, but it reiterates the notion that Mathis will contribute in Year 1. Remember, interior defenders don’t have to show up on the stat sheet to make an impact.

Stock down: Danny Johnson

Johnson has quietly had a strong training camp, but the Panthers passing attack targeted him early and often on Saturday. More often they not, they were successful. We don’t know the official coverage stats (PFF might release those at some point), but Johnson got beat for multiple first downs. He finished with a handful of tackles, but that’s because he was a step late in coverage against his opposing receiver.