ASHBURN, Va. — Three hours before practice began Saturday, an unusual sight could be seen at the Washington Commanders' facility: a handful of fans already waiting in line.
That handful turned into an estimated 10,000 fans — the highest number to watch a Washington practice in at least a decade. They showed up on this hot, humid morning a day after one of their most noteworthy fans — Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant — attended a practice here for the first time.
It highlights the renewed excitement surrounding the team since a group led by Josh Harris bought the team from Dan Snyder, who had owned the team since 1999.
The Snyder era was highlighted more by off-field issues than on-field success and the combination caused a slow erosion of the fan base. «In light of the past three seasons, it was truly incredible,» coach Ron Rivera said Saturday. "… To see them come out in force today, that was excellent.