Is Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs Playing Today vs. Commanders?

Junfu Han-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Is Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs Playing Today vs. Commanders?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dharya Sharma | Last updated Aug 22, 2026 12:31 PM ET

The Detroit Lions have taken the field for their second preseason game , this time at home against the Washington Commanders.

Detroit fell to the Cincinnati Bengals on the road last week, but head coach Dan Campbell decided not to play his starters, including quarterback Jared Goff and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. Campbell said earlier this week that more of the Lions’ starters will play, but didn’t specify who.

That raises the question of whether Goff or Gibbs will Saturday. Let’s take a look.

Goff, Gibbs Not Playing Saturday

Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff faces a long road to the Pro Football Hall of FameJunfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Goff and Gibbs didn’t take the field for the Lions against the Commanders. Detroit did send out a few starters , including cornerback D.J. Reed and most of the offensive line. Josh Dobbs got the start at quarterback, while Jacob Saylors and Jabari Small are receiving reps at running back.

The Lions will square off against the Indianapolis Colts next week to wrap up the preseason. We’ll see whether Goff or Gibbs plays at least a drive.

Goff hasn’t played in the preseason since 2022, and Gibbs also hasn’t since his rookie year in 2023. It shouldn’t be a surprise if we don’t see either star player until Week 1 in New Orleans.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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