Commanders Cancel Joint Practice with Ravens Ahead of Preseason Finale

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Commanders have mutually agreed with the Baltimore Ravens to cancel their joint practice originally scheduled for next week. Coach Dan Quinn cited a short turnaround from a Monday night preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals to the Aug. 23 preseason finale against the Ravens as a reason for the cancellation.

“It was just too difficult to host the Ravens in an additional gamelike setting,” Quinn said after a discussion with Ravens Coach John Harbaugh on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, rookie wide receiver Jaylin Lane is making strides this offseason. Already expected to serve as the likely punt returner, Lane’s role is expanding as he receives more snaps with the first-team offense, especially in Tuesday’s scrimmage. “That’s another element, another dimension,” said Quinn. “With his speed, we wanted to go into that.”

Additions to the coaching staff have also caught attention. Quinn has emphasized building a strong coaching team to support rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. “I wanted a big staff, hoping that things would go well, and teams would want to interview our guys,” Quinn noted.

As part of their development strategy, the Commanders aim to foster younger players’ growth while also investing in seasoned veterans. Quinn highlighted the team’s intent to elevate the coaching staff, believing that improving the coaches directly benefits player development.

Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw also shared his commitment to the community, stating, “I’m just ready to put on for the city, point-blank, period. I want people to be able to brag on me.” He also reflected on overcoming past challenges, including a period of homelessness.

As the Commanders prepare for the upcoming season, the cancellation of the joint practice may shift their strategy leading into the final preseason game, while they continue to evaluate rookies like Lane and Kinlaw.