Dan Quinn and Mike McDaniel Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Commanders go from punchline to pioneers with groundbreaking Spain selection

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated May 13, 2025 1:01 PM ET

The rumors were accurate. The Washington Commanders are heading abroad for a prestigious first-ever international game in Spain.

This is a major distinction for the franchise. It's also another sign that this once-disgraced organization is part of the NFL's fabric once again.

The Commanders will take on the Miami Dolphins in Week 11. Their Spanish showcase is being held on Sunday, November 16, and will kick off at 9.30 a.m. Eastern Time. An early start for those who don't make the trip, but head coach Dan Quinn's squad will have victory on their mind before an anticipated bye week.

Commanders are a coveted commodity after decades in the NFL wilderness

Leaving a good first impression at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid is crucial for the league's global brand. It's an ever-expanding empire that is only going to get bigger. The fact that Washington has been trusted with laying the groundwork in Southern Europe is a testament to how things have positively progressed in such a short timeframe.

Success on the field was immediate. Quinn's squad went from also-rans to contenders. They won 12 regular-season games before a memorable playoff run saw them reach the NFC Championship game. The Commanders eventually fell short, but these accomplishments were far greater than anyone expected.

This provided the catalyst for monumental plans behind the scenes. Majority partner Josh Harris and his wealthy benefactors have agreed to build their lavish new venue at the RFK Stadium site in D.C., pending city council approval. Renovations to the practice facility are underway. Washington was also selected to host the 2027 NFL Draft at the National Mall, which wouldn't have entered the league's thought process when Dan Snyder held absolute power.

The Commanders are a hot commodity again. They're respected around the NFL and are being trusted with some lofty responsibilities to bolster the league's reputation. It's something they'll take seriously, so Quinn and his players will be looking to put on a show with the Spanish crowd watching intently.

They'll be playing at one of the world's most iconic sporting venues. This change of environment after a grueling campaign could remove the tediousness of week-to-week preparations. Embracing a new culture, taking on a different challenge, and getting out of their comfort zone should suit the Commanders, looking at their exceptional culture shift under the new regime.

This is the first of potentially several stand-alone or prime time games on the 2025 schedule. The Commanders will also host the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday, December 20, which probably indicates they'll be playing on Christmas Day on Netflix, too.

It's a sign of ever-changing times. Not everyone will like it, but better that the Commanders are in this spot than what they've been forced to endure in the two decades prior.