The Washington Commanders got a "mini-bye" after back-to-back losses but was it enough to return to form — specifically for star quarterback Jayden Daniels? The WTOP Sports team discusses the reasons for the rookie's midseason slump, whether the reeling Dallas Cowboys are the perfect "get-right game" and breakdown the matchup between longtime NFC E…

The Washington Commanders are 7-2 for the first time since 1996, prompting the Burgundy and Gold to make the blockbuster deal for 4-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore at Tuesday's NFL trade deadline. Longtime WTOP afternoon anchor (and lifelong Steelers fan) Shawn Anderson joins the WTOP Sports team to break down the deal and then the gruel…

The Washington Commanders' incredible win over the Chicago Bears on a Hail Mary-land was the play of the NFL season so far and the headline of Week 8. But where does it rank in Northwest Stadium/FedEx Field history? The WTOP Sports team recalls the best (and worst) moments on the Burgundy and Gold's present homefield. Also inside the D.C. Sports Hu…

The Washington Commanders pounded the Panthers despite losing Jayden Daniels to an early rib injury but will he recover in time for a nationally televised showdown with local product Caleb Williams in a battle between the 2024 NFL Draft's top two picks? The WTOP Sports team debates whether Daniels should play and break down the matchup with the Chi…

The Washington Commanders lost the "Battle of the Beltways" in Baltimore but made quite the impression in defeat. The WTOP Sports team discusses their takeaways from the game, whether the 1-5 Carolina Panthers are a "trap game" and which trades Washington could/should make before the NFL's Nov. 5 deadline. There's a couple of proposals that could m…

In the most compelling "Battle of the Beltways" of all-time, the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens enter Sunday's meeting at M&T Bank Stadium with star quarterbacks on impressive win streaks. Would a Jayden Daniels victory over Lamar Jackson pass the MVP baton to the rookie? And, would Washington truly step into contender status? The WTOP …

The NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Month Jayden Daniels has led the Washington Commanders to their first 3-1 start to a season since 2011 but how far can he take the Burgundy and Gold this season? The WTOP Sports team discusses whether this historically-effective offense changes their preseason prediction for Washington and previews the matchup with…

The Washington Commanders' "college offense" put on a professional clinic in Cincinnati, making Jayden Daniels the talk of the NFL following his primetime virtuoso. Can the star rookie's historic start to the season overcome Washington's historically bad defense? Also inside the D.C. Sports Huddle presented by FanDuel Sportsbook: The WTOP Sports te…

The Washington Commanders' got their (ahem) kicks against the Giants in their home opener but is there anything hopeful to come out of the Burgundy and Gold's touchdown-free victory? The WTOP Sports team gives the pros and cons of the "not loss" and breakdown how Washington can pull off a primetime upset of Joe Burrow and the Bengals in Cincinnati …

The Washington Commanders' season-opening loss in Tampa featured Jayden Daniels' 88-yard rushing performance on a whopping 16 attempts, sparking a debate on whether the prized rookie is already being run too much. Coach Dan Quinn has already implied he'll dial down Daniels' rush attempts — but should he? The WTOP Sports team debates that and whethe…

The Washington Commanders open their most highly-anticipated season in recent memory in Tampa Bay on Sunday and the WTOP Sports team discusses the keys to victory against the Buccaneers, the outlook for the 2024 season and also delve into the entire NFL season, which Rob previewed in-depth on WTOP.com. (Hint: Commanders and Ravens fans should enjoy…

Ben talks about the cuts made by the Commanders to reach the initial 53-man roster and signs off from the Standig Room Only Feed. Subscribe to the "Last Man Standig" feed"!!! Apple -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/last-man-standig/id1760952448 Spotify -- https://open.spotify.com/show/2IFrK4Mk3BFLBumbYJNs7t…

The Athletic's Ben Standig shares his insight and projections for the Washington Commanders' initial 53-player roster following the preseason finale. Mike Smeltz joins to discuss how many quarterbacks stick around, summer standouts that will stay, which familiar names are on shaky ground and potential moves. Also thoughts on Josh Harris's comments …

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about a significant day for the Washington Commanders. Jahan Dotson is out, and a new kicker arrives in separate trades. Ben also talks Dotson, Jayden Daniels, the 2024 QB class, NFC East and more with The Athletic's Derrik Klassen. Plus, new insight into Mike Sainristil's role.…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is discussing Jayden Daniels officially being named the Week 1 QB starter, injury updates, and 53-player roster projections.Ben Standig

Ben recaps the Commanders joint practice with the Dolphins, shares some notes on Kliff Kingsbury's offense and the #2 WR discussion that came to a head in Dan Quinn's press conference on Thursday.Ben Standig

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders' increasingly unsettled WR room, the signing of Martavis Bryant and a fake Jahan Dotson trade idea. Also, OL injury updates, Jayden Daniels, a kicking change and more camp notes ahead of this week's joint practice and preseason game at the Dolphins.…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is ready to buzz the tower as he recaps Jayden Daniels's preseason debut with fellow maverick Scott Jackson (Commanders radio broadcast). The Commanders' rookie quarterback shines as a passer, runner -- and play-caller in one notable series against the Jets. Dan Quinn's postgame reaction, OL injuries, Jamin Davis, RB room…

The Athletic's Ben Standig shares his takeaways from Thursday's rain-soaked joint practice with the Commanders and Jets. Outsized expectations for 2024 meets reality? Jayden Daniels gain experience. OL concerns grow. Pass coverage. Dyami and Tremayne. Kickers. Preseason next.Ben Standig

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for the second episode of the new "Last Man Standig" podcast (subscribe to the new feed!!!) after a busy day for the Washington Commanders. Jayden Daniels will officially start the preseason opener, there's a new unofficial depth chart, and the Jets joint practice is on deck. All of that and more was discussed wit…

As the 2024 Summer Olympics wind down, Associated Press reporter Stephen Whyno joins the WTOP Sports team from Paris to discuss his impressions of the Summer Games so far, the impact of local athletes like Katie Ledecky and Noah Lyles, and what storyline could dominate leading into the closing ceremony. Also inside the D.C. Sports Huddle: Whyno, wh…

The Athletic's Ben Standig talks about Jayden Daniels' growth and more from Commanders camp with Bram Weinstein and starting guard Nick Allegretti. But first... SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT: There's a new feed and name coming for this podcast. Subscribe to the new "Last Man Standig" podcast wherever you listen to podcasts to hear Ben's insight and conversatio…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here with the latest from Commanders training camp: Notes from recent practices on Jayden Daniels, Benjamin St-Juste, tackle rotation (2:05) 1-on-1 interview with rookie TE Ben Sinnott (15:12) Position by position look at the defense: end, cornerback rotations in flux? (20:59)…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders' first training camp practice with pads via a position-by-position deep dive into what's happening with the offense. Jayden Daniels and the QB room. Austin Ekeler is showing a burst. Quiet receivers. Brandon Coleman and the tackles. Plus, thoughts on Mike Sainristil and the returner options…

The Athletic's Ben Standig talks about Commanders' training camp and more with David Aldridge. Their assessment of Jayden Daniels, what the exciting quarterback means for the D.C. sports scene, and the organization investing in little but big elements to help the team thrive. They also talked about hope and new concerns with the U.S. men's basketba…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is ready to rumble -- or at least discuss the start of Commanders training camp with Nicki Jhabvala (Washington Post). After Ben opens with notes on a slimmer Jonathan Allen and physical changes inside the building, Nicki enters. They begin with takeaways from Tuesday's news conference involving Dan Quinn and Adam Peters …

As the Washington Commanders open Training Camp on Tuesday, the WTOP Sports team gathers to discuss the biggest storylines entering the Burgundy and Gold's most highly-anticipated camp in recent memory. Which newcomer — beyond the obvious, Jayden Daniels — is the player to watch? Which position battle will have the biggest impact? Also inside the D…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is ready to preview the start of training camp this week with Terry McLaurin and his colleague, Mike Smeltz. Ben opens with thoughts on 49ers' WR -Jayden Daniels' college teammate - Brandon Aiyuk, requesting a trade and Jason Wright's departure. Then Ben heard from the Commanders' top receiver, McLaurin, on building chemi…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is back from Vegas and talking about Commanders football, real and fantasy: *Why Washington hired former Panthers GM Scott Fitterer (3:20) *There's a market survey in the field asking (me and others) about where the new stadium should go and team name options (6:30) *Fantasy Football legend John Hansen joins Ben to chat a…

As Cooperstown prepares to welcome four more into the Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, the WTOP Sports team is joined by Dan Good, author of "Playing Through the Pain: Ken Caminiti and the Steroids Confession That Changed Baseball Forever" to talk about the incoming Class of 2024, the issues with the Hall of Fame voting process, what can be done to…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is back talking Commanders with Brian Mitchell (106.7 The Fan). Who better to discuss the NFL's new kick return rules and how Washington can attack the changes than arguably the greatest kick returner in league history? The guys also share thoughts on those spring practices, the new organizational vibes, Austin Ekeler's u…

Shortly after the 4th of July and months before another presidential election, the WTOP Sports team huddles to discuss who would be on a Mount Rushmore commemorating D.C. sports history. Along those same lines, who would make the list of all-time greatest (and worst) draft picks? From an integral member of the Burgundy and Gold glory years to Heath…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is back to break down the Commanders' defense. In part two of his chat with film analyst Mark Bullock, the guys discuss the unit's potential growth under the new coaching staff and how the scheme aids Emmanuel Forbes. Which defensive backs play the most? Edge rusher options. Johnny Newton. More. ICYMI, Ben and Mark talked…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders and analytics with ESPN's Seth Walder -- and fresh changes made in the department. Ben opens with a reaction to Eugene Shen's departure after only eight months as SVP of Football Strategy, Doug Williams rejoining the front office, and other moves announced on Tuesday. Then Seth enters with …

The Athletic's Ben Standig is back for a deep dive on the Commanders roster with film analyst Mark Bullock. Part one focuses on the offense. The best of Jayden Daniels and the sacks discussion. Puncher's chance at left tackle with Cornelius Lucas and Brandon Coleman? Ben Sinnott's versatility. WR room depth. The backfield roles. Chris Rodriguez fit…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here with more on the Commanders' minicamp and offseason practices. After talking about all things offense in the prior episode, part two dives into the defense with Mitch Tischler (Monumental Sports). Who sticks on the defensive line? Is Jamin Davis a linebacker or edge rusher -- and on the roster bubble? Jeremy Chinn…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about Jayden Daniels and the Commanders' three-day minicamp with Mitch Tischler (Monumental Sports). In part one, the position-by-position review focuses on the offense, starting with Daniels' maturity, mile markers, and the quarterback "competition." Curiosity with running back usage on offense and specia…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about the Commanders with some basketball mixed in. There is no better guest for that combo than Joe House (The Ringer). Ben opens with a commentary on the biggest disconnect with the Caitlin Clark debates via Washington and Jayden Daniels's arrival (2:20). Then Ben and Joe chat about the positive vibes ar…

The Athletic' Ben Standig discussed a chatty but focused Washington Commanders OTA practice with Nicki Jhabvala (Washington Post). Coordinator Joe Whitt's passion and energy had the defense taking center stage on the field and at the podium. What Whitt chose to say about his schematic and lineup plans. Ben and Nicki also banter about why digging up…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking Washington Commanders with Entertainment Weekly's Editorial director -- and lifelong fan -- dalton Ross. Ben opens with a breakdown of Washington's kicker situation now that the organization has released Brandon McManus. Then Dalton enters for a wide-ranging chat. The franchise overhaul, 2024 patience, Jay…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about what the Commanders' ownership said about the team name's future—and what he heard. How the stadium plan offers a potential timeline should the Harrisses seek a change. Another joint practice, observing Jayden Daniels and an optimistic update about the delayed U.S. Senate vote on the RFK site (2:35).…

Basketball legend Bill Walton died Monday at the age of 71 and the WTOP Sports team welcomes film director Steve James, whose documentary series "The Luckiest Guy in the World" took a deeper look into the iconic Hall of Fame player and unique broadcaster that was as polarizing in front of a microphone as he was as an injury-riddled MVP center. Jame…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for a solo episode about the Washington Commanders roster during this break in the schedule. How many are you keeping at each position? Three quarterbacks (Sam Hartman) or six corners? Room for John Ridgeway, Braeden Daniels, and all Day-three picks? Enough viable 2024 wide receivers to keep six? Thoughts on Bobby…

The Athletic' Ben Standig survived a scorching day at Commanders OTA to discuss Jayden Daniels, Jonathan Allen and coaches experimenting with Al Galdi (Al Galdi podcast). Ben opens the episode with how Bobby Wagner's leadership is already showing and the rise of no-huddle snaps. Then Al joins to consider whether the hold-up in the Senate really mat…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about who are the five best players on the Commanders' roster, what all the front office activity shows about the organizational mindset, whether Jayden Daniels needs to be named starter already, and more with David Harrison (SI Fan Nation). Who we're tracking at Wednesday's OTA. Joint practice in Miami. You ge…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for part two of his chat with Kevin Sheehan (Team 980) and Grant Paulsen (106.7 The Fan). Ben opens the episode with comings, goings and targets with Washington's front office and scouting department. Are more changes coming? Then more with Kevin and Grant on Jayden Daniels' progression, main roster concerns, defe…

The Washington Commanders released their full 2024 schedule Wednesday, which includes yet another Week 14 bye. The WTOP Sports team doesn't like another late break in December but offers several positives about the total 17-game slate that could offset any of the negatives. Also inside the D.C. Sports Huddle: Who wins the PGA Championship at Valhal…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here on schedule release night with guests Kevin Sheehan (Team 980) and Grant Paulsen (106.7 The Fan). In part one, the fellas tackled numerous Commanders' topics, including the aforementioned 2024 schedule, drafting Jayden Daniels, and how the new regime handled retooling the roster over the past four months. They als…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here after a soggy day in Ashburn for the start of the Washington Commanders' OTA sessions. Takeaways include Kliff Kinsgbury's approach, Bobby Wagner's impact, Luke McCaffrey's role, and rugged running backs (1:35). Then Ben welcomes ESPN's Molly McGrath for a behind-the-scenes look at draft night from the first perso…

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking rookie mini-camp and this week's Senate hearing on the RFK site plus all things Commanders with Al Galdi ("The Al Galdi podcast). Ben opens with takeaways on two days of watching Jayden Daniels and Dan Quinn's comments on the QB and Washington's OT options (2:20). Then a shift to what's coming up on Capitol Hil…