Just when you thought the Commanders were getting some good news with linebacker Frankie Luvu and tight end Chig Okonkwo officially cleared to play against the Colts in London, star receiver Terry McLaurin popped up on the injury report late Friday with a hamstring injury, immediately getting slapped with a questionable tag for Sunday’s Week 4 clash. Luvu, dealing with a groin issue, and Okonkwo, nursing a hamstring, are both primary starters returning to the lineup, which is a massive relief for Washington. But that McLaurin news? That’s the kind of late addition that really makes you raise an eyebrow and wonder what went down in Friday’s practice. Was it minor? Is it more serious? Nobody knows for sure yet, and that uncertainty stings.
Key Starters Sidelined
Look, the McLaurin situation is a gut punch, especially showing up so late in the week. But that’s not the only big name missing for Sunday. Quarterback Jayden Daniels has been officially ruled out of the game. He’d returned to practice on a limited basis as he recovers from a dislocated left elbow, but it’s clear he’s not ready to go. Running back Rachaad White is also out, having missed all three practices this week. On top of all that, safety Nick Cross, who’s been battling an illness, and guard Sam Cosmi, out with a concussion, were both formally ruled out earlier in the week and didn’t even make the trip to London. That’s a serious list of key players missing for a Week 4 matchup across the pond.
Who Steps Up in the Backfield?
With White out, the running back position is looking pretty thin. But there might be a silver lining, or at least a potential reinforcement. The Commanders brought newly re-signed running back Austin Ekeler with them to London. There’s a chance he could suit up right away, even though Washington is running a different system than when he was with the team last season. If Ekeler is active, he and Kaytron Allen would back up Jacory Croskey-Merriott. If Ekeler isn’t quite ready to go, the team would likely need to dip into their practice squad options, with Robert Henry Jr. or Craig Reynolds potentially getting the call for support.
Sunday’s game in London against the Colts is going to be a true test of this team’s depth and grit. You gotta wonder who steps up with so many key guys sidelined, especially with McLaurin and Daniels out. All eyes will be on Ekeler if he suits up, but regardless, this is a moment where the next man up has to make a statement in a big way.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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