The Washington Commanders wasted little time making a roster decision following their August 8 preseason opener in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Just days after falling to the New England Patriots, the team released second-year linebacker Dominique Hampton, a move reported by NFL insider Lake Lewis Jr.
â@Commanders roster moves see LB Dominique Hampton being released after a poor performance in preseason opener against Patriots. #NFL #RaiseHail,â Lewis shared on social media, confirming the news that took some by surprise.
In a not surprising move the @Commanders have released LB Dom Hampton. The converted college safety looked out of place against N.E. to start the preseason. #NFL #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/Mk93aHkswL
â Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewisJr) August 11, 2025
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Hampton, who entered the league as a developmental prospect, had been working to carve out a bigger role on defense and special teams. However, his outing against the Patriots did not go as planned. Missed tackles, slow pursuit angles, and coverage difficulties drew the attention of coaches and evaluators. In the NFL, preseason performances can make or break a player’s chances of making the roster.
Performance in Foxborough Seals His Fate
Washington entered the matchup against New England with an emphasis on evaluating young talent. Most veteran starters were rested, giving players like Hampton an extended opportunity to demonstrate their progress from the previous season. Unfortunately for Hampton, the moment slipped away.
During his reps, Patriots running backs found space to run, and tight ends gained separation in short-yardage situations. In a league where every snap is scrutinized, such breakdowns can be costly. Hamptonâs missteps, combined with the strong play of other linebackers in camp, left the coaching staff with a tough â but swift â decision.
Releasing a player this early in preseason sends a message to the rest of the roster. Head coach Dan Quinn and the front office are making it clear that performance matters immediately, not later in August. The move also opens up reps for younger players and recent additions, allowing them to showcase their skills in the coming preseason games.
Looking Ahead for Washingtonâs Linebacker Group
With Hampton gone, the Commanders will lean on a mix of established names and emerging talent at linebacker. Players like Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu headline the unit, while camp standouts like Kane Medrano and fringe roster hopefuls will see increased opportunities to earn a spot.
The Commandersâ defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and Quinn demands speed, discipline, and versatility from its linebackers. Special teams contributions are equally important, meaning every snap in practice and preseason carries weight. Hamptonâs departure could also open the door for another addition if the coaching staff feels more depth is needed before the regular season kicks off.
For Hampton, the release marks a setback, but not necessarily the end of his NFL journey. Other teams may view him as a player worth developing further, especially given his athletic tools and size.
As for Washington, the decision underscores a no-nonsense approach this summer. Players who make the most of their preseason chances will move closer to securing a roster spot, but those who falter may find themselves on the outside looking in, just as Hampton did following the teamâs trip to New England.
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