The Miami Dolphins are set to open their 2026 preseason campaign against the Washington Commanders in a matchup that gives both teams an important opportunity to evaluate players ahead of the regular season.
The Dolphins will travel to Washington for the preseason opener on Friday, August 14, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
Miami Dolphins Begin a New Preseason Test
The Miami Dolphins enter the preseason with plenty of attention surrounding their roster and coaching direction. The opening game against Washington provides an early opportunity to assess new additions, young players and position battles.
Miami’s first preseason matchup is particularly useful because teams can use these games to determine how their depth chart is developing. The Dolphins have three preseason games scheduled before the regular season begins, with the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons following Washington.
Washington Commanders Prepare for Miami
The Washington Commanders will host Miami at Northwest Stadium. Washington’s schedule lists the game for Friday, August 14, at 7 p.m. ET.
The Commanders have also released an unofficial 2026 depth chart ahead of the matchup, giving coaches and fans an early look at players competing for roles.
For Washington, the preseason opener is another chance to evaluate roster depth and establish competition before the regular season. The Commanders will follow the Dolphins game with preseason contests against Detroit and Baltimore.
Key Storylines to Watch
One of the biggest questions entering the game is how much playing time Miami’s starters will receive. Preseason workloads can vary, but the opener provides an important opportunity for players to experience live-game action.
The game should also provide valuable information about Miami’s offensive line, quarterback competition and young skill-position players. A joint practice with Washington has already provided both teams with an early test before the preseason game.
For the Commanders, the unofficial depth chart offers another major storyline as coaches continue evaluating players across the roster.
Dolphins vs Commanders Game Details
- Matchup: Miami Dolphins vs Washington Commanders
- Date: Friday, August 14, 2026
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Northwest Stadium, Washington
- Event: 2026 NFL Preseason
- TV: CBS
What This Game Means
Although preseason results do not determine regular-season standings, the matchup carries plenty of importance for players fighting for roster spots. Coaches can evaluate performance in live-game situations, while younger players have an opportunity to make a strong impression.
For the Miami Dolphins, the Washington game is the first major test of the preseason. For the Washington Commanders, hosting Miami provides an early opportunity to measure the team’s depth and identify players who could become important contributors.
Final Outlook
The Miami Dolphins vs Washington Commanders preseason opener is more than a simple exhibition game for players competing for opportunities. With both teams evaluating new and returning talent, the matchup should provide useful clues about roster battles and team development.
Miami begins its preseason on the road, while Washington gets the benefit of playing at home. The biggest focus will be on player development, competition and how both coaching staffs manage playing time before the 2026 NFL regular season begins.
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