The Chris Russell Show

The Commanders prepare to take on the Lions in their second preseason game this Saturday! Rooster gets all the final news and previews in, plus we take a deep dive on Dan Quinn's coaching style and chat with DB Nick Cross. Also, a lengthy discussion on letting NFL players go back to college with NCAA eligibility.

Hour 1: Will the Commanders be ready for week 1? / Is Dan Quinn's coaching style too soft? / Is Dan Quinn a favorite among players because he is softer on them? / How do the Commanders keep from losing their edge this season?

Hour 2: What do you need to see against the Lions to be happy after the game? / Seahawks WR Jake Bobo injured and expect to be out most of season / A new court ruling in favor of the NCAA's age based eligibility rules

Hour 3: Should players be able to leave an NFL team to go back and play in college? / The case against college players earning more / Chris speaks with Commanders safety Nick Cross at practice / Dum Dum of the Day

Chris Russell kicks off Hour 1 with the latest expectations surrounding Jayden Daniels and the belief that he’ll play in the next preseason game. Plus, it’s National Radio Day! Chris reflects on what makes radio so special, the connection it creates with listeners, and why the medium continues to matter.

In Hour 2, fans call in to share why they love radio and their favorite radio experiences. Chris also discusses Rashee Rice getting hurt during an Ice Bucket Challenge and the latest reaction surrounding the incident.

Chris Russell dives into Jaxson Dart’s life on and off the field, including the brutal hit he took in Preseason Game 1. Plus, Jacory Croskey-Merritt catches up with Russell to talk about doing whatever he can to help the team and his reaction to being mentioned in a rap song.

In Hour 1, Chris Russell breaks down the latest from Commanders training camp, including Jayden Daniels having some struggles connecting with his wide receivers during practice. The discussion also covers the growing concern around injuries across the NFL, plus a frustrating day for Washington’s offensive line with multiple false starts.

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!

Hour 1: What's in a number? / Who do you want to see stand out tonight for the Commanders? / This team can always use more experienced pass rush / Cowboy Bob talks about a JD #5 conspiracy theory

Hour 2: Which WRs are on the bubble going into tonight's game? / Center is more of a concern right now than left tackle for the Commanders / It's a good thing that the Commanders are not interested in Terrion Arnold

Hour 3: JP Finlay calls in on his way to tonight's preseason game / The NFL suspends Commanders DE Dorance Armstrong for 1 game / Other suspensions and punishments around the NFL / Dum Dum of the Day

Jayden Daniels and LSU clash over the the number five

Hour 1: Why is Jayden Daniels so concerned about his #5 being used at LSU? / Joe Burrow's number hasn't been given out, but he won a championship at LSU / Why the number controversy will affect the Commanders too / Jayden Daniels wants his heisman trophy back from LSU

Hour 2: Callers give their takes on Jayden Daniels fighting with LSU over #5 / Is the C&D threat meant to just tie up money from LSU? / Jayden Daniels releases a statement about the number 5 at LSU / Lane Kiffen speaks about the number 5 at LSU

Hour 3: Zig Fracassi talks about the NFL as it prepares for the season / What is the number issue with Jayden Daniels and LSU really about? / Is Jayden trying to future proof himself as NIL changes going forward? / Dum dum of the day

Chris Russell discusses how JD5 has looked noticeably better at practice, showing improved confidence, consistency, and command. Is this a sign of things clicking for the young quarterback?

The offensive line becomes a major topic of conversation as Chris Russell breaks down the issues he’s seeing up front and why there are legitimate reasons for concern. Russell also continues to evaluate Jayden Daniels and the progress he’s making during practice, while taking calls from fans who weigh in on everything from JD5’s development to the team’s biggest concerns heading into the season.

Chris Russell takes a closer look at what Stefon Diggs brings to the wide receiver room and how the veteran playmaker could impact the offense. Russell discusses Diggs’ skill set, experience, and potential role with the team before Adam Caplan joins the show to break down the latest news. The two also discuss the team’s recent additions, roster moves, and how the new pieces could fit together heading into the season.

Chris Russell breaks down the Washington Commanders’ performance at training camp, including why he believes head coach Dan Quinn needs to be more critical of the team. Chris also looks ahead to the Commanders’ upcoming joint practice with the Miami Dolphins and what to watch for.

Chris Russell discusses Stefon Diggs’ reported desire to wear No. 7 in Washington despite the number being retired, and why the Commanders should hold firm and say no. Chris also addresses the concern level surrounding Jayden Daniels and what Washington fans should be watching as training camp continues.

We welcome Denton Day to break down the Commanders and discuss what’s ahead for Penn State during the 2026 season. Chris also catches up with Treylon Burks, Colson Yankoff and Tim Settle for the latest from around the team.

The Commanders start another week of training camp with plenty to discuss, but the biggest story is a major blow to the offensive line as Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil suffers a torn triceps and faces surgery. Chris Russell breaks down what Tunsil’s injury means for the Commanders, Brandon Coleman stepping into the starting left tackle role, and whether Washington can overcome the loss of one of its most important players. Plus, what are the biggest concerns and red flags coming out of camp so far? Chris takes a closer look at the areas that have him worried as the Commanders continue their preparations for the 2026 season.

The Commanders’ 2026 season outlook is changing quickly. With new additions to the roster and key injuries already piling up, Chris Russell takes a fresh look at what Washington can realistically expect this season. How do the latest moves change the roster, and where do the Commanders have the biggest questions to answer? Plus, fans need to recognize just how difficult this schedule could be. Chris breaks down the challenges ahead and explains why expectations should be measured. And with joint practices against the Dolphins coming up, it will be an important next step for Washington’s rookies to test themselves against another team and gain valuable experience before the regular season arrives.

Chris Russell isn’t buying the overly positive descriptions coming out of Commanders training camp. After hearing how coaches are characterizing practice, Chris explains why he believes things may be worse than they’re being portrayed and why the first preseason game this week could leave some fans concerned. Chris also takes a critical look at Jayden Daniels after a rough practice, questioning what he saw from the Commanders’ young quarterback and why the performance deserves scrutiny. The criticism has already upset some fans, sparking a bigger conversation about expectations for Daniels and how honest everyone should be about what’s happening on the practice field.

Today was Stefon Diggs's first practice with the Commanders and Chris was there! We talk all things Commanders camp - including their deficiency at center, where their nominal starter was ranked last in the NFL - and how Diggs will change the complexion of the team. Plus, a chat with Jaylin Lane, and The Athletic's Mike Jones gives his thoughts on Commanders training camp as well as the camps around the league.

Hour 1: Mike Sainristil may not be elite but he's one of the few getting turnovers / Today was Stefon Diggs' first Commanders practice and Chris was there / Who does Stefon Diggs help the most on the Commanders? / Too many cooks: who won't be making the cut in the crowded WR room?

Hour 2: Have the Commanders been unable to see weakness at center or can they just not fix it? / Was Tony Romo ever really worth his contract at ESPN? / Anthony Davis isn't getting a contract extension before the season starts / PFF ranked Nick Allegretti No. 32 of centers in the NFL

Hour 3: Chris spoke with Jaylin Lane at practice today / Mike Jones of the Athletic reports on today's Commanders practice / What is the easy part of the 2026 Commanders regular season schedule? / Dum Dum of the Day

It's all about the Commanders and their latest addition, Stefon Diggs! Guests include Mitch Tischler and Adam "Awadd" Epstein, plus Chris spoke with Commanders LB Jordan Magee after yesterday's practice.

Hour 1: Bringing Stefon Diggs to the Commanders was a great move / Will Stefon Diggs score more than 4 TDs this season for the Commanders? / How will Diggs fit into Blough's new offense? / Could Diggs have a better year than Terry McLaurin in 2026?

Hour 2: Mitch Tischler of Monumental Sports talks about Stefon Diggs's history at Maryland University / The Diggs signing is not a departure from Adam Peters' long-term vision / G from the Shop has some comments on why Diggs was overlooked at Maryland / Chris talks to Jordan Magee after yesterday's practice

Hour 3: Chris talks to Jordan Magee after yesterday's practice / Adam "Awadd" Epstein reports on Commanders training camp / New info on Anthony Davis getting a contract extension with the Wizards / Dum Dum of the Day

The big news of the day broke during today's show when Stefon Diggs signed with the Commanders! Chris Russell breaks that all down, plus looks at what the first full week of training camp has brought us.

Hour 1: The joy of fan days at Commanders training camp is the best side of sports / There were a few on field scraps among players at training camp / The Commanders defense continues to look better than their offense in camp / Kaytron Allen stood out today at Commanders training camp

Hour 2: Breaking news- Stefon Diggs signs with the Commanders / Chris Russell's immediate reaction to Diggs signing / Callers reacts to Stefon Diggs becoming a Commander / Are the Commanders stable enough to handle Stefon Diggs?

Hour 3: The Diggs signing takes some fear out of what happens if McLaurin is hurt / The impact Stefon Diggs can have for the Commanders, and Vegas / A deeper look at Stefon Diggs's numbers last season / Dum Dum of the Day

Chris Russell breaks down what new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones brings to the Commanders, including his defensive philosophy and how the team's personnel fits his scheme. He also explains why Jayden Daniels shouldn't be expected to play "Superman" every week, emphasizing the importance of a balanced offense, strong defense, and complementary football. Plus, Russell discusses Washington's kicker competition and why the player who opens the season may not be the one who finishes it.

In Hour 2, Chris Russell dives into the latest NFL quarterback rankings, discussing where Jayden Daniels stacks up among the league's best. He compares Daniels to other top quarterbacks, examines what makes an elite NFL QB, and debates whether Daniels has already earned a spot near the top or still has more to prove heading into the season.

Chris Russell got exclusive interviews with Fabian Moreau, Chig Okonkwo, and Brandon Coleman at camp on Tuesday! The players discuss their preparation for the upcoming season, training camp progress, team chemistry, and individual goals as they get ready for the year ahead. Chris also shares insights and observations from camp on what stood out during the conversations.

Chris Russell opens Hour 1 with his takeaways from the first day of Week 2 of Washington Commanders training camp, explaining why the defense has been the standout unit through the early practices. He also reacts to the Washington Nationals becoming active at the trade deadline, breaking down the blockbuster deal that sends Luis García Jr. to the New York Yankees and what the return means for the Nationals' rebuilding plans.