The Miami Dolphins struggled through much of their 2026 preseason opener on Friday night, losing to the Washington Commanders 20-7. Miami struck first with an opening drive touchdown, but then stumbled through the remainder of the game. After the starters left the field, Miami’s lack of depth was exposed.
However, the team also had some flashes from their younger player, both with the first unit and further down the depth chart. The Dolphins selected 13 players in the 2026 NFL Draft, and they showed
up on Friday night. From guard Kadyn Proctor creating running space with the starting offensive line to wide receiver Caleb Douglas making a spectacular catch on the touchdown drive to edge rusher Max Llewellyn recording a half-sack, the drafted rookies played well throughout the night. The undrafted rookies also found their moments to shine, including linebacker Mason Reiger getting a sack late in the game.
The Palm Beach Post’s Hal Habib took a look at the performances of many of the rookies from Friday night, grading them on their first game experience. Of Douglas, who he graded as an A-minus, h explained:
Fans who hadn’t been to practice saw the same thing reporters have been saying all camp. The guy makes plays. On this night, he made the tough ones but not the easiest one. His first catch was wiped out when he was ruled to needlessly have a foot on the sideline. No matter. Douglas came right back to make a spectacular one-handed grab for 28 yards. It may be as good a catch as you’ll see all season. He was interfered with on the play, but no need to accept the penalty.
You can check out the rest of that story here, and the rest of the day’s round-up below.
Grading Caleb Douglas and the Miami Dolphins’ rookies for NFL debuts – Hal Habib, The Palm Beach Post
The Miami Dolphins have one of the youngest teams in the NFL, including 13 draft picks, topped by guard Kadyn Proctor, the top pick. The season will revolve around how the rookies progress throughout the year, so here are the notable performers in their NFL debuts against the Washington Commanders:
Dolphins vs. Commanders recap and reactions
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Malik Willis, Caleb Douglas flash + more takeaways as Phins fall to Commanders 20-7 – C. Isaiah Smalls II, Miami Herald
It wouldn’t be wise to overreact. That said, the first few drives of the coach Jeff Hafley era – both offensively and defensively – has to inspire a little bit of hope.
Malik Willis is lights out in Miami Dolphins debut – Joe Schad, The Palm Beach Post
Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis played one series in the preseason opener against the Commanders. Willis led a 93-yard touchdown drive before being pulled from the game by coach Jeff Hafley. The quarterback’s performance is seen as a source of hope for the Dolphins’ upcoming season.
Malik Willis needs more than three weapons on offense – Omar Kelly, Miami Herald
At this point let us can push Malik Willis aside, placing the Miami Dolphins’ new starting quarterback away in the “not a problem” pile. He’s young and inexperienced, but Willis has got a cannon for an arm, good pocket presence, and stellar athleticism and mobility.
Dolphins Preseason Opener Instant Takeaways: Willis, Jonah, Depth, and More – Alain Poupart, Miami Dolphins on SI
The Miami Dolphins opened their 2026 preseason schedule against the Washington Commanders on Friday night, and more important than the final score were the lessons the game provided. Among the big takeaways in the 20-7 loss at Northwest Stadium were strong performances by a lot of folks of the first-team offense but not enough from anybody else.
Instant Grades: Miami Dolphins QB Malik Willis after preseason opener – Joe Schad, The Palm Beach Post
Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis made his debut in a preseason game at the Washington Commanders on Friday night, Aug. 14.
Breaking Down Willis’ Dazzling Dolphins Preseason Debut – Alex Villasis, Miami Dolphins on SI
Malik Willis only played briefly against Washington but was able to show plenty
Game Recap: Dolphins Fall to Commanders in Preseason Opener – Grace O’Donnell, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins opened the preseason with an early lead but were unable to capitalize, falling 20-7 to the Washington Commanders on Friday night.
Jonnu Smith
Could The Dolphins Bring Back Jonnu Smith? Should They? – Jake Gibson, Miami Dolphins on SI
A report suggested the former Dolphins tight end wants to return to Miami, but is that the best decision for the offense?
Caedan Wallace
Dolphins trade for Caedan Wallace: Why ex-Patriot could be key OL piece – Joe Schad, The Palm Beach Post
The Miami Dolphins acquired offensive tackle Caedan Wallace in a trade with the New England Patriots. Wallace, a former third-round pick, is expected to serve as a key “swing tackle” for Miami. He offers versatility, with experience at both tackle and guard, though he was primarily a right tackle in college
ICYMI – The Phinsider News
Immediate reactions: Commanders smack Dolphins in preseason opener – Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider
The Dolphins were manhandled during their 2026 preseason opener against the Commanders.
Miami Dolphins @ Washington Commanders: Preseason Game 1 Live Thread & Game Information – James McKinney, The Phinsider
Join us live to follow and discuss this evenings preseason game between the Miami Dolphins & the Washington Commanders.
How long should Dolphins starters play against Commanders tonight? You answered – Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider
Are you happy with the direction of the Miami Dolphins? It seems like the fan base is.
How to watch Dolphins vs. Commanders: Odds, online stream, weather, start time – Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider
The Miami Dolphins open their preseason against the Washington Commanders tonight. Here is everything you need to know.
Can you name all the players on the Miami Dolphins roster? – Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider
All of the players on the team are sorted by their jersey numbers and by their last names to help you find your favorites during the preseason.
