It was just a preseason game. But it was also the start of a new era. The Washington Commanders defeated the Cleveland Browns 17-15 in Friday’s preseason opener.
It was the first Washington game without Daniel Snyder as the owner since Dec. 27, 1998. Friday’s game represented the debut of new owner Josh Harris. Harris arrived with his son, joining minority partners Mitchell Rales and Mark Ein, who were also at the game.
Harris watched the game from the bench behind Commanders’ sideline — not in the press box. At one point during the game, Harris joined the NBC local broadcast of the game for a quick interview, making it all about the team and the fans — not himself or his fellow owners.
After the Commanders won the game, head coach Ron Rivera gave a postgame locker-room speech to his team, and he gave out the game ball.
Who was the recipient? Harris, of course.
first game ball of the season was a special one pic.twitter.com/sbw20A4rYV
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 12, 2023
Harris was humbled.
“I’m proud to be a part of this family, man,” Harris said. “Thank you for delivering the win. Love you guys.”
