MADRID — To check whether there are cracks in the foundation of a team that represents the American capital, you have to travel this week across the Atlantic to the Spanish capital. Here, the Washington Commanders assembled Wednesday for their first practice ahead of the first NFL game to be staged in Spain. This was to be a celebration of America’s national sport. The local team arrived in chaos.

Five straight losses will make the sturdiest franchise wobble. What has happened over the past month — with the past four losses each by at least three touchdowns — can make you wonder whether the franchise was stable in the first place.

See Full Page