The Miami Dolphins opened their preseason with a tough 20‑7 loss to the Washington Commanders, a game defined by an encouraging debut from Malik Willis and a sudden injury to Washington quarterback Marcus Mariota. Miami showed flashes of rhythm early but struggled once the reserves took over, leaving coach Mike McDaniel with plenty to evaluate heading into Week 2 of the preseason.
Willis Starts Strong in First Game as Miami’s Quarterback
Signed in the offseason to replace Tua Tagovailoa, Willis delivered exactly the type of opening drive Miami hoped to see. He led a 14‑play, 93‑yard march that showcased tempo, balance, and command of the offense. Willis completed 4 of 5 passes for 43 yards and added 9 rushing yards on two carries. De’Von Achane capped the drive with a 1‑yard touchdown run and finished with 39 yards on seven carries.
Willis’ best throw came on a 28‑yard strike to rookie Caleb Douglas, who made a one‑handed grab over cornerback Antonio Hamilton Sr. The play energized Miami’s sideline and highlighted the chemistry developing between Willis and the young receivers.
“It was exciting,” Willis said. “The consistency of the guys out there, keeping up the energy and the execution all the way down the field. They did a great job with their preparation.”
Mariota Injured Early as Commanders Adjust
Mariota’s night ended abruptly. On Washington’s fourth play, he suffered a non‑contact leg injury while handing off to rookie Kaytron Allen. He immediately went down and was tended to by trainers before walking to the sideline and later to the locker room.
One play earlier, Mariota had completed a 22‑yard pass to Dyami Brown but took a hit from linebacker Tyrel Dodson. Commanders coach Dan Quinn, who held out Jayden Daniels and more than two dozen starters, said the team will evaluate Mariota’s injury Saturday.
Sam Hartman replaced Mariota and had an uneven performance, finishing 8 of 15 for 80 yards with an interception.
Dolphins Reserves Struggle as Washington Takes Control
Once Miami turned to its backup quarterbacks, the offense sputtered. Quinn Ewers completed just 1 of 8 passes for 27 yards and threw an interception. Third‑stringer Cam Miller went 3 of 11 with two picks, giving Washington repeated short fields.
Commanders safety Quan Martin intercepted Ewers in the second quarter and said the defense was focused on creating turnovers.
“Ball is life,” Martin said. “Punch, rip, interception — anything to give our offense another opportunity.”
Washington’s rookie running backs took over from there. Allen rushed for 85 yards and a touchdown, while Robert Henry Jr. added 75 yards and a score as the Commanders controlled the second half.
Up Next
The Dolphins return home to host the New York Giants on August 22, where Willis is expected to receive extended work as Miami continues shaping its quarterback depth chart.
