Redskins Arie Kouandjio to have surgery, could return in September

The Washington Redskins could aim to get Arie Kouandjio back and healthy by the start of the 2018 season.

After hearing the initial report of Arie Koaundjio’s quad tear, fans lamented at the early return of critical injuries, which handicapped the team last season. But now that we have more information, there’s a chance Kouandjio could come back.

The impact of Arie Kouandjio‘s reported quad tear last week was largely ambiguous. Kouandjio had flashed last year when given opportunities to start, and there were reports that he had changed his offseason training regimen to improve his mobility and lower body strength.

There was apprehension surrounding the initial diagnosis; The Washington Redskins wanted a second opinion, and now, it appears they have received it. The quad is not fully torn. Rather than going on injured reserve, Arie Kouandjio will undergo surgery to repair the partially torn quad tendon, per NFL insider Ian Rapoport.

This development complicates the situation of Arie Kouandjio, and it sheds light on some ulterior motives. The Washington Redskins, rather than placing Kouandjio on injured reserve, and restricting themselves from bringing him back until late in the 2018 season, will likely keep a roster spot reserved for him while he recovers from surgery. “Several months” is vague terminology, in terms of a recovery time. He could be back as early as August or September, barring setbacks.

The Washington Redskins could place Kouandjio on the Physically Unable to Play, or PUP, list when training camp comes around, and try other options in his roster spot while he heals. They would need to free up a spot for him on the 53-man roster to ensure his return in the season, as they’ve done for players such as Jordan Reed and DeAngelo Hall.

While the decision to undergo surgery was ultimately decided personally by Kouandjio himself, there is no doubt that he was consulted by Washington Redskins health officials and trainers in the process. The Washington Redskins’ handling of the situation shows that they value the growth he displayed this offseason. And with more and more uncertainty surrounding the position of left guard, the Washington Redskins aren’t willing to shut the door on Kouandjio if they don’t have to.

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A return in mid-September could see Kouandjio suit up against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2 of the regular season. There is still much at play here, and lots left to play out. But it’s clear that the Washington Redskins are being careful with Kouandjio. They want him to have a chance to play.