The hits keep coming for the Washington Commanders. And now, they will be without yet another established veteran presence acquired this offseason.
Washington was already reeling from losing defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. and running back Austin Ekeler to season-ending injuries against the Green Bay Packers. The last thing they needed was more bad news, which unfortunately arrived thanks to a concerning development around cornerback Jonathan Jones.
The two-time Super Bowl winner joined the Commanders this offseason. Jones was expected to play a key rotational role behind the starting trio of Marshon Lattimore, Mike Sainristil, and second-round rookie Trey Amos. He settled in exceptionally well, but any brief momentum has now come screeching to an abrupt halt.
Commanders must call Stephon Gilmore after Jonathan Jones injury blow
Jones suffered an issue at Lambeau Field that caused him to leave the contest early. The Commanders have now placed him on injured reserve, meaning he'll miss the next four games if not more. This is another devastating setback — one that could prompt general manager Adam Peters to make more transactions to help compensate for another brutal loss.
And there is one name that the Commanders could call first.
The Commanders are relying heavily on aging players at the end of their respective careers. While their young guns also play a huge part, this is the NFL's oldest roster for a reason. That's why giving Stephon Gilmore a call to see where things stand wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
Gilmore's credentials need no introduction. He's a two-time All-Pro, a five-time Pro Bowler, and a former NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He's also got a previous connection to Dan Quinn from their time together on the Dallas Cowboys in 2023.
After turning out last season with the Minnesota Vikings, the right opportunity hasn't come along for Gilmore this offseason. He's lost a step from his elite-level capabilities in his prime, but there was far more good than bad regarding his production. If Jones is out for longer than four weeks, the South Carolina product could slot into the same role with minimal fuss.
There's been no retirement thoughts from Gilmore. He wants to keep on playing, and the Commanders now have an opening. But if he's not in the right shape to come in and make an immediate impact, that makes this scenario much less likely.
The time for half-measures is over in Washington. They have gone all-in for a Super Bowl and freed up some extra salary cap space by restructuring Laremy Tunsil's deal. Calling Gilmore would be beneficial.