DALLAS — The Washington Commanders will be without key receiver Deebo Samuel for their upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys due to a lingering bruised heel, which has affected his performance over the last two games. This injury compounds the Commanders’ woes as they also lose their top two receivers, Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown, to injuries. McLaurin is sidelined for the fourth consecutive game with a quad issue, while Brown was placed on injured reserve earlier this week following a groin injury that caused him to miss the previous four contests.
Samuel has been a critical part of Washington’s offense, leading the team with 34 receptions for 315 yards and three touchdowns. However, he has struggled with his heel issue, particularly visible in Monday’s narrow 25-24 loss to the Chicago Bears, where he managed only 15 yards on four catches.
In a positive turn of events, the Commanders received some good news with the activation of starting right guard Sam Cosmi off the physically unable to perform list. Cosmi had been recovering from a torn ACL sustained during the NFC divisional playoff win against Detroit on January 18. His return could boost the offensive line as the team navigates these injury challenges.
With Samuel now out, Washington’s passing attack will rely on a mix of younger talent and experienced players. Second-year receiver Luke McCaffrey and rookie Jaylin Lane, along with veteran Chris Moore, will need to step up. McCaffrey currently leads this trio with eight receptions. The Commanders also have the option to elevate veteran Robbie Chosen from the practice squad or utilize Treylon Burks, a former first-round pick, who recently joined their practice team.
Additionally, the Commanders may look to tight end Zach Ertz, who has collected 20 passes for 192 yards this season, and rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who could play a significant role against the NFL’s 29th-ranked run defense.
On the defensive side, Washington activated reserve corner Jonathan Jones off the PUP list after he missed the last four games with a hamstring injury, further strengthening their squad as they prepare to face the Cowboys this Sunday.