Dan Quinn talks about rookies stepping up, new coordinators, preseason win

The Washington Commanders hosted the Miami Dolphins for the first game of their preseason. Washington got the home victory in front of some fired up fans at Northwest Stadium. The Commanders only have one more home game before the end of next month, and Quinn said it was good to get out there in front of them tonight. Second-string QB Marcus Mariota started the game, but exited the game after apparently hurting his knee. Quinn didn't have any updates on his condition, but said he would know more when he talks to the media again on Sunday.

The first preseason game means a lot of rookies were playing their first games in the NFL. Sonny Styles and Antonio Williams were the Commanders top two picks this year, both made plays tonight. Styles showed the good technique and speed he's been showing in camp. Quinn also pointed out rookie RBs Kaytron Allen and Robert Henry Jr. stepping up tonight to score their first touchdowns.

HC Dan Quinn speaks to the media after the preseason opening win pic.twitter.com/c961YbI2pa

- Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 15, 2026

Marcus Mariota injury non-update:

Dan Quinn said he doesn't have an update on Marcus Mariota. He said he'll know more tomorrow.

- Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) August 15, 2026

Quan Martin interception:

Quinn said he was pleased to see Quan Martin with the ball. Knows he has that kind of ability

- Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 15, 2026

Dan Quinn said after the game that this could change in the next preseason game, indicating there's a chance Martin is inactive for the next one and Reaves starts. Nothing certain yet, but made it clear it was by design to give Martin and Harris extended time at safety in this...

- Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) August 15, 2026

Two new coordinators:

Quinn said both coordinators were really prepared and in control. Liked the communication he heard from them. Good collaboration with the other coaches, too

- Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 15, 2026

Sonny StylesYou gotta make the most what the snaps you get":

Sonny Styles says he wishes he had another series but was happy to get out there and see the stadium pic.twitter.com/GEZ7aZnvqy

- JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) August 15, 2026

Sonny Styles on his first NFL game. Also confirms he and Leo Chenal wanted another drive, but are looking forward to another opportunity in Detroit next week. pic.twitter.com/1w5k6mjnbH

- David Harrison (@DHarrison82) August 15, 2026

Quan MartinJoint practice:

Commanders safety Quan Martin, who had an interception tonight: I think the joint practice really set the standard for where we see this team going." pic.twitter.com/u0gr8cYCnn

- Ethan Cadeaux (@Ethan_Cadeaux) August 15, 2026

Robert Henry JrTwitchy back:

Robert Henry Jr said he can be a twitchy back; felt he was able to show that tonight.

- John Keim (@john_keim) August 15, 2026

Kaytron AllenRobert Henry Jr.:

Kaytron Allen said when he saw Robert Henry having success it got me going." Said after Henry scored he knew he had to as well. Said Henry is his dog."

- John Keim (@john_keim) August 15, 2026

Fred Davis IIFull-body cramp:

Fred Davis II needed a cart to get off the field. He told me he experienced a full-body cramp.

- Ben Standig (@BenStandig) August 15, 2026