4 winners (and 3 losers) from Commanders preseason loss at Dolphins
By Dean Jones
Loser No. 1
Riley Patterson - Commanders K
For those unaware, the Washington Commanders have a kicking problem. Something that could end up costing them games during the 2024 season unless a solution can be found.
Those in power released Ramiz Ahmed this week following his brief yet underwhelming stint with the franchise. Dan Quinn stated he wanted to see what Riley Patterson - picked up off waivers following his departure from the Jacksonville Jaguars - could do with sole custody of the No. 1 spot. It did not go well for the veteran.
Patterson missed two makeable kicks in the first half, which was met with obvious dismay by fans and media members alike. He eventually finished the game making two of his four efforts. This did nothing to suggest Wasington's starting kicker in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers isn't on the roster currently.
The question now centers on whether Patterson gets another opportunity this week.
Adam Peters won't hesitate to cut him loose if he can find a better option. This seems like the most likely outcome right now. Whether it occurs when others begin getting released during final cuts or sooner is up for debate.
Winner No. 2
Jamin Davis - Commanders DE/OLB
After going through a significant adjustment period this offseason, the light is starting to come on for Jamin Davis. The former first-round pick is making the transition from linebacker to edge rusher under the expert guidance of Dan Quinn and his defensive coaches. It was a big change for the player, who's spent his first three seasons compensating for some extreme personnel mismanagement at the defensive second level.
Davis looked the part in Preseason Week 2 at the Dolphins. He played deep into the game once again to gain some much-needed experience. This time, his explosiveness, hand placement, and improved motions in tight windows came across significantly.
This was against second and third stringers, so it needs the correct context attached. At the same time, Davis' sack that led to a forced fumble was a huge confidence boost for a player whom many believed was on the cusp of being cut under the new regime.
There doesn't seem much chance of that at this juncture. Davis has the physical profile capable of thriving within Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive system. This was a sign their teachings are having an effect, but what comes next is more important.