Patriots vs. Commanders: Players and Storylines to Watch Tonight

The New England Patriots take the field against the Washington Commanders tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Gillette Stadium.

It has been years since there’s been this much buzz and anticipation going into a season. For a franchise that dominated most of this century, it’s still an adjustment to feel genuine excitement about a team simply having a shot at making the playoffs.

After back-to-back 4–13 seasons and consecutive top-five draft picks, simply being in the playoff conversation is almost nostalgic.

Patriots’ top players like Drake Maye and Stefon Diggs likely won’t see more than a couple of drives—if they play at all—so the focus will be on roster battles.

Will Campbell – Left Tackle

This is the debut Patriots fans have been waiting for. Campbell’s run blocking is already considered elite by reporters, but questions remain about his pass protection—specifically his arm length and wingspan.

He’ll get an immediate test from an old friend: Deatrich Wise, who stands 6'5" with nearly 36-inch arms. If Campbell can hold his own, it’ll be a strong early sign for the rookie.

Javon Baker – Wide Receiver

Baker should see plenty of snaps tonight. He’s been one of camp’s surprise standouts, moving from a longshot (I gave him a 6% chance of making the roster back in May) to a legitimate contender.

According to CLNS Media Patriots beat reporter Evan Lazar, Baker brings something no other receiver in camp has: a true deep threat with the size and hands to win contested catches. His highlight grabs are impressive—but can he stay focused on the routine ones?

Other questions remain:

• Has he mastered the playbook?
• Has he refined his route running?
• Can he stay disciplined on and off the field?

Wide Receiver Depth Chart Outlook: Diggs, Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and Kyle Williams are roster locks. Most teams keep six receivers. That leaves Baker, Ja’Lynn Polk, Kendrick Bourne, and Efton Chism III fighting for one remaining spot.

Efton Chism III – Wide Receiver

The most unfamiliar name, for casual fans, in the WR battle is Efton Chism. But it wouldn't surprise me if he leads the team in receptions tonight.

With the starters sitting, Chism should get plenty of playing time. A natural slot receiver, he’s drawn comparisons to Julian Edelman for his “phone booth quickness” and reliable hands. His strong showing in offseason workouts raised eyebrows, though he hasn’t fully carried that momentum into camp.

The hope that he could be the next Edelman keeps him firmly on the radar.

Lan Larison – Running Back

The rookie free agent and Benson Boone lookalike has been one of camp’s most talked-about newcomers.

Larison offers versatility and has drawn comparisons to Rex Burkhead, Larison offers:

• Special teams coverage experience
• Excellent receiving ability (58 catches on 63 targets for UC Davis last year, 6 TDs)
• Proven rushing skills (1,321 yards, 14 TDs in 2024)
• Strong pass protection—critical in Josh McDaniels’ system

The main concern? Fumbling issues in college. Tonight will be his first test against NFL-level speed and physicality.

Andy Borregales – Kicker

Kickers aren't exciting, but having a very good one is critical if you aspire to be a championship team. Younger Patriots fans have been spoiled growing up with consistent, clutch kickers like Adam Vinatieri and Stephen Gostkowski. But they got a taste of how frustrating it can be when Chad Ryland was missing left and right in 2023.

The Patriots used a sixth-round pick on Andy Borregales, though they might have been fine sticking with holdover Parker Romo. Borregales started camp slow, but both he and Romo have been sharp lately. Whoever loses the job won’t stay unemployed for long.

Honorable Mentions

• Khyiris Tonga – The rotund nose tackle has dominated in recent practices. If Milton Williams continues to struggle against the run, Tonga could see more playing time on early downs.
• Kyle Dugger – His roster spot may be in jeopardy. The Patriots used a fourth round draft pick on Craig Woodson, and coach Mike Vrabel has shown a willingness to move on from veterans. Dugger’s pass coverage struggles and ankle surgery recovery could make him vulnerable.
• Elijah Ponder – The rookie free agent edge rusher from Cal Poly has been flashing as a pass-rush option.
• D.J. James – The sixth-round pick by Seattle in 2004 is shining in the absence of Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III.
• Marcus Bryant – The seventh-round rookie is seeing extended reps at right tackle while Morgan Moses has been getting the veteran treatment in camp.
• K’Lavon Chaisson – The 2020 first-round pick is trying to avoid being labeled a “bust." He had 4 sacks in the final 6 games last year for Las Vegas. He has been one of the best defensive players in practice, but may not play tonight as he has missed time this week due to an undisclosed injury.

One Non-Player Thing to Keep an Eye On

Center–Quarterback Exchanges: Snap issues have cropped up in camp between centers Garrett Bradbury and rookie Jared Wilson. Whether that’s a center problem or something tied to Drake Maye remains to be seen, but it’s worth monitoring.

Most important of all: No injuries!