There was an enormous sense of excitement as the Washington Commanders welcomed the Miami Dolphins for a joint practice before their preseason clash on Friday. And there was a lot to like about the way head coach Dan Quinn's squad applied themselves from start to finish.
The Commanders have been setting a different tone this offseason. There is renewed energy and purpose to put last season's disappointment firmly behind them, and it shows. This was another chance to make a statement, and almost all the units answered the call.
Granted, the Dolphins are not going to be contending for a Super Bowl this season. They are widely predicted to be among the bottom feeders, and it's not hard to see why. There is no sugarcoating it; Washington had its way with the AFC East club, especially on the defensive side of the football.
The aggression, dynamism, and speed are night and day from last season on both sides of the football. We'll get a better indication of where the Commanders are during joint practice with the Baltimore Ravens later this month. But for now, things couldn't be going much better.
With this in mind, here are five winners and two losers from a very worthwhile joint practice against the Dolphins in Ashburn. Â
Winners and losers from Washington Commanders' dominant joint practice with the Miami Dolphins
Winner No. 1
Amik Robertson - Commanders CB
There were a few eyebrows raised when the Commanders' first signing of the legal tampering window was veteran cornerback Amik Robertson. He wasn't the big splash fans were looking for, but his competitive streak has already changed the mood.
With no Trey Amos in the lineup, Robertson got plenty of chances to showcase what he could do on the boundary. He seems to be locking down an outside spot, and reports suggested it was another solid day from the small yet feisty corner against a Dolphins' offense that looked overwhelmed and outmatched.
Robertson looks comfortable in the system. His positional sense is sound, and he is always in a position to make plays. This reportedly stood out most in 11-on-11 drills, which is precisely what the Commanders need to see.
This should make the transition to a game-day environment even more seamless.
Robertson is an experienced pro who came highly recommended after emerging as a real leader with the Detroit Lions. He challenged everyone in Washington from the moment he got into the building, and the 2020 fourth-round pick out of Louisiana Tech is cementing his status as a firm part of Daronte Jones' defensive strategy.
And considering the money it cost to get Robertson into the building, it could even be a steal if he reaches his ceiling.
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