Mike Sainristil and Malik Nabers Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

NFL schedule leak practically begs Commanders to start 1–0

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated May 14, 2025 8:28 AM ET

Fans around the league are eagerly awaiting the NFL's schedule release later tonight (Wednesday). However, information is slowly coming to light through leaks and major announcements beforehand from the major broadcasters or streaming services.

After the initial disappointment of not opening up the campaign on Thursday Night Football against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Washington Commanders were handed a can't-miss chance to begin their 2025 exploits on the front foot.

Commanders will reportedly host the NY Giants in Week 1

According to Art Stapleton from NorthJersey.com and USA Today, the Commanders will host the New York Giants at Northwest Stadium in Week 1 on Sunday, September 7. This is a heated divisional rivalry to start the season, but it's also an extremely winnable contest that head coach Dan Quinn's squad must take advantage of.

The Commanders enjoyed tremendous success over the Giants last season. They overcame New York on home soil in Week 2 after a franchise-record seven successful field goals from kicker Austin Seibert. They followed this up with a 27-22 triumph at MetLife Stadium, which confirmed the franchise's best start since 1996 after decades of perennial failure.

Things are hanging precariously for the G-Men. They are seemingly moving forward with Russell Wilson under center, although trading back into the first round for Jaxson Dart gives them a long-term plan at last. This will also be a high-profile debut battle between two first-round picks — offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. and edge rusher Abdul Carter — something that could set the tone for a long-standing rivalry.

There are plenty of unknowns in Week 1. But if this report proves accurate, the Commanders couldn't have asked for a better game to start 1-0 and leave their mark within the NFC East right out of the gate. The opposite is true for the Giants, who'll be aiming to cause an upset and let the league know they mean business with head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen both on the hot seat.

One guarantee is that Northwest Stadium will be rocking for this. The Commanders' passionate fanbase is expectant, galvanized, and ready to do everything possible to help their team get over the hump. Anything less than success versus the lowly Giants won't bode well.