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Commanders prepare for potential receiver absences as they look to build winning momentum
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- Commanders prepare for potential receiver absences as they look to build winning momentum
The Commanders could be shorthanded at wide receiver this week, with Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown both missing practice.
Burks has not practiced all week because of a foot injury, while Brown injured his calf during practice Wednesday. Head coach Dan Quinn said the team prepares for situations like these by giving players opportunities to learn and execute different roles.
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"There are sometimes in practice where we do that intentionally to be like — hey, let's see where this player is, where their knowledge is," Quinn said. "Not every play is featured with this specific player, but we do try to stay connected to that."
The potential absences could put added pressure on a receiving group that has seen Antonio Williams and Stefon Diggs emerge as the only receivers with more than one catch this season.
Diggs remains optimistic about the offense's progress but knows the next step is translating its work in practice into results on game day.
"I hope we're real close," Diggs said. "We go out there each and every day practice-wise and put our best foot forward, but it's got to happen in the game."
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The Commanders also have an opportunity to win consecutive games for the first time this season. Offensive lineman Sam Cosmi said building on a victory can make a significant difference in the locker room.
"It's just a different vibe, and if you can keep that going, that's huge for the team and for the morale," Cosmi said.
Cosmi added that playing with confidence and staying loose can help the team perform at its best.
"I always think you play better when you're a little bit more loose. Not everything is under a microscope," he said. "That's the big thing for us, just go out there and play ball."
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Meanwhile, defensive end Johnny Newton hopes to return to game action this week after an injury. He said he stayed positive throughout his recovery, drawing inspiration from Marvel superhero Wolverine and his ability to heal.
"Just his healing powers. That was my thing," Newton said. "He's a BMF."
The Commanders' offensive line could face its own superhero-sized challenge. The Rams are expected to activate star pass rusher Myles Garrett after he missed seven games with a knee injury, potentially giving Washington another major obstacle to handle up front.
