Commanders News: Sam Howell, Logan Thomas, Efe Obada and Ron Rivera

Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines and preparations continue for their Week 6 game at the Atlanta Falcons?

We'll find out this weekend exactly what the Washington Commanders are made of. Three straight losses and a complete embarrassment against the Chicago Bears one week ago today means pressure is mounting, so nothing less than improvement and maximum effort will do heading into their must-win contest at the Atlanta Falcons.

Until then, the stories causing conversation include Sam Howell on facing a familiar foe, Logan Thomas demanding a collective effort from every single player, Ron Rivera's message, and Efe Obada nearing a return.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders DL Efe Obada nears return

While it hasn't been great on the health front this week with starting safety Darrick Forrest and All-Pro special teamer Jeremy Reaves both going to injured/reserve, the Washington Commanders did announce something positive on Wednesday. The team confirmed it had designated defensive lineman Efe Obada to return from IR, which would be a real boost to a defense that has failed to meet lofty expectations as yet.

Obada might not have the high reputation of others on a defensive front that's loaded with first-round picks, but he is a decent rotational piece with a proven track record of putting up numbers with limited reps. Something the Commanders could use in no uncertain terms given how little others further down the pecking order are contributing.

This would also strengthen Jack Del Rio's five-man fronts given there is no sign yet of Phidarian Mathis, who's been seldom seen since the Commanders selected him in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft.