The Washington Commanders dealt with devastating injuries from start to finish in the 2025 season. After a relatively encouraging start on the health front this summer, the injury bug is starting to bite back once again.
And for defensive coordinator Daronte Jones, his unit is already being stretched before a competitive down is even played.
It was a who's who of big names missing on Day 13 of training camp practice. Some are more serious than others, but it's not exactly the preparation Jones needed to put his ambitious plans into motion at such a critical stage of preparations.
Commanders' new-look defense is missing some key men at an important time
The Commanders were without the starting edge rushing tandem of Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson. Head coach Dan Quinn didn't believe their problems were serious, and Washington is right to err on the side of caution at this time of year.
However, the situation involving defensive lineman Johnny Newton is far more concerning.
Newton is seeing a specialist about a pectoral injury, and Quinn acknowledged that it could be long-term. With free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. also missing with a calf complication right now, it's easy to be a little worried.
Unfortunately, that's not all.
Cornerback Trey Amos' ankle injury and recovery timeline is shrouded in mystery. Quinn thought things would become clearer in the next week or two, but it's starting to look like he may not be able to hit the ground running when Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles rolls around.
Jordan Magee is trying to overcome a shoulder issue. He's fighting for a rotational role behind Frankie Luvu, Sonny Styles and free-agent signing Leo Chenal at linebacker, and defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr. hasn't been seen on the practice field all offseason as he recovers from a quad injury sustained early last season.
That's not counting edge rusher Dorance Armstrong Jr., who is suspended for the first game.
Daronte Jones will be looking for solutions, not excuses
It's far from ideal. But Jones will not be looking for excuses.
The no-nonsense coach will be expecting others to step up. That's the only way Washington is going to overcome adversity, and it's the only way Jones' big plans are going to pan out.
There is still enough talent across all three levels to achieve the desired improvements. Not having so many established figures right now is disappointing, but time is on the Commanders' side.
For now, at least.
Precautionary measures are the right approach. Pushing injured players back too quickly now will be more detrimental in the long run. Jones will work with what he has and hope for good news on those who are unable to participate. And this will provide the Commanders with a broader perception of what their depth in certain areas really looks like on film.
Jones will roll with the punches. He's waited a long time for this opportunity, and he's not going to let a few injury setbacks divert him from his path.
His players must follow suit.
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