The Washington Commanders need everyone fit and firing on all cylinders if they want to make their presence felt in the postseason. It's been a magnificent campaign up to now, but head coach Dan Quinn knows more is needed to mix it with the NFL's elite.
Washington was dealing with some health issues throughout the week. They've taken their time with some established figures and erred on the side of caution. Keeping the bigger picture in mind was crucial. That method has paid off throughout the campaign en route to 12 wins and the sixth NFC playoff seed.
This is just the start. The Commanders head into their Wild Card encounter at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with no margin for error. They received a humble beatdown at Raymond James Stadium in Week 1. Righting this wrong is the primary objective.
The Commanders have a chance. To accomplish this goal and gain another impressive victory on primetime, getting a relatively clean bill of health was paramount. Their final injury report represented a beacon of positivity in that regard.
Commanders final injury report entering Wild Card round at the Buccaneers
Player | Status |
|---|---|
Colson Yankoff (TE) | Out (hamstring) |
Jamison Crowder (WR/KR) | Questionable (hamstring) |
All eyes were on stud cornerback Marshon Lattimore's status before he resumed his fierce rivalry with wide receiver Mike Evans. After coming through various intensities at practice this week, the former first-round pick out of Ohio State was not at Friday's session due to a veteran rest day. Quinn provided a promising update during his media availability by proclaiming the player as good to go.
And make no mistake, Joe Whitt Jr.'s defense will be counting upon the four-time Pro Bowler heavily.
Perhaps equally as important is the involvement of Tyler Biadasz. The veteran center is sorely missed whenever he's not on the field. Backup Michael Deiter represents a significant downgrade, so to get him back represents a huge morale boost for the offensive line and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Speaking of Daniels, there didn't appear much concern about his status despite leaving the game in Week 18 at the Dallas Cowboys early with a leg problem. This was precautionary more than anything else, which was reflected in the signal-caller's full participation throughout each practice session.
Aside from that, it's all systems go. The Commanders have an almost full-strength roster to utilize at the Buccaneers. It's all hands on deck as they look to make another big splash and reach the divisional rounds. Nobody wanted to miss it, although some will inevitably miss out once the inactive players are confirmed around 90 minutes before kickoff.
Now that they've proven their fitness, getting the job done is the primary objective. And few would bet against them.