When the Washington Commanders kick off the 2026 season in Philadelphia against the Eagles, it won't be the first time these NFC East rivals have squared off to start a new campaign. In fact, this will be the fifth season opener between the two teams since 2000, and the history is packed with drama, breakout performances, and unforgettable moments.
The Eagles hold the edge in these early-season clashes, winning three of the previous four. But Washington's lone victory—a thrilling comeback in 2020—set the tone for a new era. That game marked Ron Rivera's debut as head coach, and after falling behind 17-0 in the second quarter, Washington stormed back with 27 unanswered points. Running back Peyton Barber punched in two touchdowns, and the Commanders (then known as the Football Team) announced they wouldn't be pushed around.
But the most memorable opener came in 2019, the last time Washington opened the season in Philadelphia. That game introduced the NFL to Terry McLaurin, who delivered one of the greatest rookie debuts in recent memory. The wide receiver hauled in five catches for 125 yards and a spectacular 69-yard touchdown from quarterback Case Keenum. It was an instant statement: McLaurin was Washington's new WR1, a role he has never relinquished. The Redskins jumped out to a 17-0 lead, but the Eagles—on their way to a 13-3 season and a Super Bowl title—rallied for a 32-20 win.
Other openers have their own storylines. In 2019, the Eagles' loaded roster—fresh off a Super Bowl victory over the Patriots—needed a late rally to overcome Kirk Cousins and the Redskins. A key sack and fumble by Fletcher Cox sealed the 22-17 win. And in Jay Gruden's final season as head coach, the 2019 opener was a tale of two halves: Washington led 17-0, only to see Philadelphia dominate the rest of the way with a 32-3 run.
As the Commanders prepare for their 2026 trip to Lincoln Financial Field, they'll be looking to channel the resilience of 2020 and the explosive spark of McLaurin's debut. One thing is certain: when these two rivals meet in Week 1, the energy is electric, and the stakes are high from the very first snap.