LANDOVER, Md. (7News) — Professional football returned to Northwest Stadium on Monday night.

The Washington Commanders battled the Cincinnati Bengals in their preseason home opener.

Opening possession, the Bengals converted on two fourth-down attempts before Chase Brown found the end zone from a yard out. Cincy went on top, 7-0.

The Commanders responded immediately. Deebo Samuel ripped off a 19-yard run. Then Chris Rodriguez rumbled for a 40-yard gain. A few plays later, Jayden Daniels felt the pressure, tucked the ball away, and scooted in for a 14-yard touchdown run. Game tied 7-7.

Next Washington possession, the rookie running back broke free. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, behind some terrific blockin,g scored on a 27-yard run. The Commanders grabbed their first lead of the game, 14-7.

Cincinnati would go on to win the game 31-17.

The Bengals (1-1) planned on using their starters longer in preseason games to hopefully avoid a string of poor regular-season starts. Over two games with Burrow at quarterback, Cincinnati scored touchdowns on four of five possessions.

Considering the Commanders played without three offensive line starters, two starting receivers, and tight end Zach Ertz, limiting Daniels’ exposure to hits and a slick field courtesy of pre-game rain was probably the proper call. Terry McLaurin, a 2024 second-team All-Pro wide receiver, remains a non-participant amid a contract dispute.

Robinson Removed

Commanders RB Brian Robinson did not dress for Monday’s game, nor was he at Northwest Stadium amid recent reports of Washington seeking to trade the four-year veteran. Robinson rushed for 799 yards and eight touchdowns last season, but the emergence of Croskey-Merritt has the Commanders reconsidering their backfield options.

Injuries

Bengals: 2023 first-round pick Myles Murphy remains sidelined. Head coach Zac Taylor recently said the defensive end was a “week-ish” away from returning. Cincinnati is thin off the edge with 2024 NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson out while seeking a contract extension.

Commanders: Beyond McLaurin, Washington remains without wide receiver Noah Brown. The 2024 starter has been a limited training camp participant after suffering a knee injury during the team’s June mini-camp.

Up next

Bengals: Wrap up the preseason Saturday against Indianapolis.

Commanders: Play their exhibition finale Saturday against Baltimore.