Nearly 10,000 fans attend practice to support Commanders - ESPN

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. Our players really appreciate it. I know our ownership appreciates the renewed interest."

Having fans ready to again embrace the franchise has been a topic of conversation for a few months among players and coaches. Now they're seeing it in action. Ever since Snyder reached an agreement with Harris on April 13 — three months before the owners approved the sale — the team said it has sold 4,200 season tickets.

Team officials also say they're close to a sellout for the season opener against the Arizona Cardinals.

«Oh, man, it's awesome,» said Washington safety and All-Pro special teams player Jeremy Reaves, who signed autographs for more than 45 minutes after practice Saturday. «You can see the excitement, all the things happening. These fans have been waiting for this for a long time. This is the turnout.

»I told my