Washington activated Terry McLaurin from the physically unable to perform list, but he has yet to step on the practice field as contract talks continue. The move isn’t framed as a sign of progress, and McLaurin will miss Monday’s preseason game versus Cincinnati while he recovers from an ankle issue. The Commanders will also sit veterans Bobby Wagner, Zach Ertz, Laremy Tunsil, Von Miller, Sam Cosmi and Marcus Mariota in the exhibition, with Jayden Daniels slated to start the regular season opener plan: McLaurin’s return-to-play protocol will guide his early-season timeline, likely delaying a full ramp-up but keeping him on track for Week 1 at home against the Giants on Sept. 7.

The roster notes emphasize a careful, stepwise return, and coach Dan Quinn stressed the club’s process as McLaurin’s deal remains unresolved. For fantasy managers, the absence of McLaurin in practice and the preseason suggests monitoring a ramp schedule, while the offense leans on the supporting cast and the developing quarterback play in the early weeks before McLaurin’s full involvement returns.

Duke Riley joins Washington as an eight-year veteran linebacker, adding immediate depth behind Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu. Riley, 31, was a 2017 third-round pick by Atlanta and has since lined up for the Falcons, Eagles, and Dolphins, compiling 283 tackles in 124 games. His arrival comes after a preseason loss to New England and a workout that earned him a deal with the Commanders. Washington’s linebacker room now blends veteran savvy with the development of Magee and Medrano, giving the staff more options in sub-packages and on special teams.

The move signals a veteran infusion rather than a teardown, with Riley likely to handle situational roles and contribute on special teams while Magee heals and Medrano grows into a regular role. Washington will lean on Riley for depth and leadership as they assess the young duo and preserve the health of Wagner and Luvu. Fantasy/IDP angles hinge on his snap count and special-teams impact early, but the experience he brings could stabilize the unit during a pivotal stretch of training camp and the early season.

The Washington Commanders are at a pivotal moment as they prepare to face the New England Patriots in a joint practice and their first preseason game. Following two weeks of training camp, the team's 53-man roster is taking shape, with some positions still up for grabs. Key players like Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota are solidifying the quarterback duo, while Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are locked as running backs. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has garnered attention, and the wide receiver corps is spearheaded by Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel. Tight end Zach Ertz remains a key asset alongside a stable offensive line. The defensive line looks formidable with veterans like Von Miller, and the linebacker corps features Bobby Wagner. The Commanders will showcase their depth and talent against the Patriots, providing insights into their final roster decisions.

The Washington Commanders are strategically blending youth and experience as they aim for a successful rebuild. With Adam Peters at the helm, the team is focusing on veteran leadership to guide the younger talent. Two standout players, Bobby Wagner and Laremy Tunsil, recently earned spots on the Top 30 over 30 list, showcasing their enduring skills. Wagner, a 35-year-old linebacker and future Hall of Famer, remains an elite performer with 132 tackles last season, while Tunsil, 30, has been a key figure on the offensive line, allowing minimal pressures.

This approach emphasizes that age is merely a number in the NFL, as the Commanders look to blend seasoned talent with emerging players to foster a competitive environment. Their veterans are crucial for both on-field performance and mentoring the next generation of players, contributing to organizational success beyond just the upcoming season.