The Washington Commanders got some welcome news as preparations for their Week 1 clash against the Philadelphia Eagles gathered pace. And the look of relief on head coach Dan Quinn's face during his media availability spoke volumes.
Quinn was proud to report before Wednesday's practice that every healthy member of the roster would be practicing. While some were limited and others were a full go, it's a massive relief after all the health concerns that have blighted Washington this summer.
This is a positive sign before a crucial divisional matchup to start the season. And Quinn knows it.
Commanders get some key men back on the practice field at the perfect time
The biggest return to practice was edge rusher Odafe Oweh.
Washington's big-money signing in free agency has been dealing with a calf issue, and there was some trepidation about whether he would be healthy enough to make an impact at the start of the season. The Commanders were right to be cautious with Oweh, and if the Penn State product comes through the ramp-up process unscathed in the coming days, he'll get the green light.
The likes of center Nick Allegretti, edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson, running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, and linebacker Jordan Magee also practiced. And if there are no further setbacks, they also stand a good chance of suiting up at Lincoln Financial Field.
The doom and gloom merchants have been out in full force for the Commanders since five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil went down with a torn triceps. He's an elite player, so it's understandable. But the sky is not falling before a competitive snap is played.
Washington has talent. If they get a little bit of good fortune along the way, Quinn's squad will be more competitive.
And the cavalry arriving back just in time for the real action gives them a fighting chance, if nothing else.
Commanders need all hands on deck in pursuit of Eagles upset
There are still issues. That's not up for debate, either.
Tunsil and defensive lineman Johnny Newton might be done for the year. Cornerback Trey Amos will miss the first four games on injured reserve, and edge rusher Dorance Armstrong Jr. is suspended for the opening contest in Philadelphia.
Not ideal, but not a complete deal-breaker either.
The Commanders were probably just covering their bases, given the injuries they've dealt with later in the summer. This is a notoriously cautious medical staff, and there was no need to rush them back. Now that the stakes are higher, they have added rest and more comfort to get back into the groove.
It won't guarantee success against the Eagles. However, it's not exactly detrimental to their hopes of pulling off a major upset.
Hopefully, it will be good news from here on out. A couple of them might carry injury designations into the contest, which is fine. But so long as they are on the field and ready to contribute in an intimidating atmosphere, that's the main thing.
The more hands that are on deck, the better. Especially when a fierce division foe awaits.
We're still early in the week. But it's so far, so good.
And after a summer of uncertain upheaval, fans can be thankful for that.
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