Washington Commanders wide receiver Stefon Diggs will not play against the Miami Dolphins in Friday’s preseason opener. The Commanders officially listed Diggs among 26 players who will sit out the game at Northwest Stadium. Quarterback Jayden Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin are also among the starters being held out. Diggs joined Washington earlier this month on a one-year, $12 million deal after spending the 2025 season with the New England Patriots. He has practiced with his new team for about a week but will have to wait for his first game appearance in a Commanders uniform.
Why is Stefon Diggs not playing against Miami Dolphins?
The Washington Commanders announced Friday that Diggs will not participate in the preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. The team also left out several other key players, including Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin and running back Rachaad White.
That means fans will not get to see the new Washington offense with its expected starting quarterback and top wide receivers together in a game yet. Diggs has only recently joined the Commanders, so his first preseason appearance will have to wait.
The decision also gives Washington a chance to look at players fighting for places further down the roster. With several regular starters watching from the sideline, younger players can get more snaps and a chance to show the coaching staff what they can do.
Stefon Diggs waits for Jayden Daniels connection
Diggs was brought in to give Jayden Daniels another experienced target alongside Terry McLaurin. The veteran receiver signed with Washington after the Patriots released him in March.
His arrival comes after a strong 2025 regular season in New England. Diggs played all 17 games and finished with 85 catches for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns on 102 targets, according to ESPN’s player statistics.
Those numbers give Washington plenty to look forward to once Diggs gets his first chance to play. However, Friday’s game will not provide the first look at how he fits with Daniels or McLaurin.
Also Read: How Stefon Diggs joining the Commanders affects Brandon Aiyuk’s NFL future and trade outlook
When will Stefon Diggs make Commanders debut?
Diggs is expected to get his first preseason game action when Washington faces the Detroit Lions on Saturday, August 22, according to the information provided by CBS Sports.
For now, the Commanders will continue using training camp and preseason snaps to prepare their roster. Diggs will remain one of the players to watch as Washington works toward the regular season, but his first game with Daniels will have to wait.
