The NFL recently expanded its regular-season schedule to 17 games, which led to the elimination of one preseason game. While this decision was generally met with approval from players, coaches, and fans, it meant that roster hopefuls had one fewer opportunity to showcase their skills and secure a spot on the team. In response to this change, more teams have started to consider holding joint practices with their preseason opponents in order to make up for the lost game time.
The Washington Commanders are one such team that has taken advantage of this trend by participating in joint practices with their preseason opponents. Last summer, the Commanders teamed up with the Baltimore Ravens for a pair of joint practices, which made sense as the two teams had a game scheduled that week and were located only an hour apart. This summer, the Commanders will once again participate in joint practices, but this time with the Miami Dolphins. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that his team would hold joint practices with all three of their preseason opponents, including the Commanders.
The joint practices offer a valuable opportunity for both teams to evaluate their roster and prepare for the upcoming season. They also provide an additional level of competition and exposure for roster hopefuls who may not have had as many opportunities to showcase their skills during traditional preseason games. It wouldn’t be surprising if Washington schedules additional joint practices with its other preseason opponents, the New York Jets and New England Patriots. These joint practices serve as a crucial element of preparation as teams gear up for the regular season.
Overall, while some may see the elimination of one preseason game as a negative change, it has led teams like Washington to get creative and find new ways to prepare for the upcoming season. The joint practices offer valuable opportunities for evaluation and preparation that can help teams succeed in a highly competitive league like football.
