Commanders News: Sam Howell, Jabril Cox, OL slammed and Jim Harbaugh
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as preparations reach their final stages for Week 8 against the Philadelphia Eagles?
There's no just telling how bad the atmosphere might get if the Washington Commanders end up getting beaten down by the Philadelphia Eagles on home soil in Week 8. Pressure is building to its highest level since head coach Ron Rivera took charge, with Josh Harris now seemingly willing to influence football matters if the hiring of analytics expert Eugene Shen is any indication.
It's a fascinating and worrying time in equal measure. Before this weekend's latest divisional showdown, the stories causing conversation include Sam Howell's assessment, Washington's offensive line slammed by a former player, Jabril Cox's opportunity, and Jim Harbaugh being touted as a potential head coaching candidate in 2024.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders to elevate Jabril Cox in Week 8
With veteran Cody Barton missing through injury, head coach Ron Rivera revealed during his media availability on Friday that the Washington Commanders will finally elevate linebacker Jabril Cox from the practice squad. This is a move many expected soon given the team's second-level struggles and the fact he chose to join the ranks despite being offered a place on the Dallas Cowboys practice squad.
Just how much Cox sees the field if he does suit up is anyone's guess. The Commanders have no margin for error against one of the league's heavyweights, so one would expect to see Khaleke Hudson far more than the LSU product.
Cox has the size and physicality to potentially make a difference - especially on running downs. But although getting elevated is a positive step, tempering expectations would be wise until we know for sure what his role will be.