The spotlight on the Commanders-Bengals preseason tilt wasn’t about stars lighting up the scoreboard so much as who didn’t play and what it could mean for rosters and fantasy value. Trey Hendrickson’s hold-in keeps his pass-rush ceiling in question for Cincinnati, while Washington’s off-field drama surrounding Terry McLaurin’s contract stalemate and Brian Robinson Jr.’s status points to a fluid backfield and receiver pecking order ahead of the season. On the field, Cincinnati kicked off with Joe Burrow under center, and Jayden Daniels followed for Washington in a showcase that underscored the offense’s early rhythm (two Burrow TD drives, a Daniels highlight run) despite defensive miscues.

Mitchell Tinsley stole the show for Cincinnati, snagging two touchdown catches in a rapid-fire sequence and finishing with five grabs for 73 yards, raising the ceiling for a rookie path to a roster spot. Washington’s Jaylin Lane flashed; his three catches for 42 yards included a remarkable diving grab, hinting at a potential Week 1 boost if McLaurin remains out. The Commanders also leaned into a reshaped rushing corps, with Croskey-Merritt and Rodriguez contributing as a committee over a ground game that still left some run-fit questions. Overall, the early returns suggest the Bengals may lean into shootouts again, while Washington’s depth chart remains unsettled but rich with intriguing role players for fantasy depth charts.