The Chris Russell Show

In Hour 2, Chris Russell discusses why the Commanders need to be 100% ready to go heading into the 2026 season after finishing 5-12 last year. He questions whether coaches need to recognize that players often improve through meaningful reps and live experience, rather than being overly cautious with playing time.

Russell also looks ahead to Week 3 against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, calling it the game that could provide the clearest early-season test of where the Commanders truly stand. Washington opens the season at Philadelphia and Dallas before hosting Seattle in Week 3.

In Hour 3, Chris Russell discusses Pat McAfee’s new role with ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, as McAfee expands his NFL presence alongside Scott Van Pelt, Jason Kelce, Marcus Spears and Jason McCourty.

Adam Epstein joins the show from Commanders practice to share what he has seen from Jayden Daniels, including why he has liked what he’s seen from JD5. The guys also discuss new kicker Drew Stevens, who has impressed throughout camp and won the kicking competition.

Plus, Russell dives into Daniels’ ongoing fight with LSU and the social-media memes surrounding the situation.

Rooster was at Commanders practice today, and he breaks down what he saw, what he heard (especially from Dan Quinn), and what he thinks might need to happen as we approach the regular season! Plus, Ben Standig and David Harrison join Chris to discuss all things Commanders, and a chat with Jaden Bradley from practice today.

Hour 1: Observations from today's Commanders practice / Will the Commanders keep 4 RBs after the cut? / Dan Quinn speaks about Jayden's preseason playing time / On the backup QB situation on the Commanders

Hour 2: Does Marcus Mariota's injury change how much Jayden Daniels will play? / Do the Commanders need to keep 3 QBs after the cut? / Ben Standig breaks down the Commanders QB room

Hour 3: David Harrison on how much Jayden Daniels should play in preseason / The Commanders have some positions that they need to address depth on / Chris Russell speaks with Jaden Bradley at today's practice / Dum Dum of the Day

Chris Russell breaks down the Commanders’ 20-7 preseason win over the Miami Dolphins and what it means heading into the rest of the preseason.

In Hour 1, Chris gives his grades and evaluation of rookie linebacker Sonny Styles after his NFL debut, plus a closer look at Robert Henry Jr., who made a major impression with 75 rushing yards and a touchdown. Also: what stood out from Washington’s young players, the biggest positives and concerns from the opener, and which players are making their case for roster spots.

Chris Russell breaks down the latest Commanders roster news in Hour 2. Washington has released Jake Moody and named rookie Drew Stevens the team’s new kicker, ending the competition after Stevens emerged as the more consistent option in camp. Chris also discusses Noah Brown signing with the Las Vegas Raiders after two seasons with Washington, and what his departure means for the Commanders’ wide receiver room.

Chris Russell breaks down the latest surrounding the Commanders in Hour 3. Washington isn't practicing today, giving the team a chance to reset before getting back on the field Tuesday. Chris also dives into the wide receiver room, explaining why catching the football isn't enough — Washington's receivers need to make an impact as blockers, route runners and special teams contributors.

The Commanders first preseason game is tonight against the Miami Dolphins!