After a memorable offseason for everyone associated with the Washington Commanders, they conclude their preseason slate against the New England Patriots. This is head coach Dan Quinn's first outing on home soil since taking the job, so he'll want to leave a good impression before attention quickly turns to Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
It's been a refreshing change of pace in Washington since the 2023 campaign ended. Josh Harris' ownership group wasted no time in implementing wholesale changes. Adam Peters gutted the roster and enhanced the front-office infrastructure considerably. Quinn and his staff re-energized the playing personnel, implementing their schematic concepts and improving teaching methods in double quick time.
Just how many starters play in Washington's preseason finale remains to be seen. Quinn's given most expected to play key roles time on the field over the last fortnight. The coaching staff might decide to shut them down to reduce the risk of additional complications, but nothing has been confirmed one way or another as yet.
The Commanders will be coming up against a player who they did considerable research on during their pre-draft assessments. Drake Maye was a prospect of interest before those in power became enamored with Daniels. The former North Carolina star didn't have to wait much longer to hear his name called, going to the Patriots at No. 3 overall.
Excitement is reaching levels not seen for decades in Washington. The result of this warmup outing won't matter in the grand scheme of things, but this is the final opportunity for some lower down the depth chart to stake one last claim for roster spots with final cuts looming in the coming days.
Patriots vs. Commanders Preseason Week 3 date, start time
Washington takes on the Patriots on Sunday, August 25 at Commanders Field. The contest is set to begin at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
How to watch Patriots vs. Commanders in Preseason Week 3
The Commanders' last preseason engagement will be broadcast nationally on NBC. Mike Tirco and Cris Collinsworth will be on the call, which is their tune-up before embarking on their Sunday Night Football schedule throughout the upcoming regular-season campaign.
How to stream Patriots vs. Commanders in Preseason Week 3
Because the game is nationally televised, it won't be available to watch on the Commanders or Patriots apps. Anyone wishing to stream the game can do so on NBC or NFL+.