There was one ongoing theme around Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn's latest media availability. Unsurprisingly, it was the injury issues that befell his squad during their Thursday Night Football defeat to the Green Bay Packers.
Running back Austin Ekeler and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. are out for the season. Quarterback Jayden Daniels' status for this weekend's clash with the Las Vegas Raiders is in doubt with a sprained knee. But another major issue could completely shift the landscape, and not in a good way.
Reporters were eager to find out more about the statuses of wide receiver Noah Brown and tight end John Bates, who both left the game at Lambeau Field with groin issues. Quinn didn't offer much information, but he stated that playing against the Raiders was a long shot.
Commanders could have a real problem brewing without John Bates
Brown being absent is nothing new. The Commanders have coping mechanisms for that, but losing Bates could potentially come with significant ramifications attached.
Bates has gradually emerged as one of the league's most prolific blockers at the tight end position. The Commanders deservedly gave him a new long-term commitment during the offseason, and hopes were high that he could firmly cement his status as a core foundational piece.
Not having him against the Raiders is going to make things extremely difficult for rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. The first-round pick is in the midst of a genuine baptism of fire to begin his NFL career. Things unraveled quickly when Bates wasn't helping in Week 2. And with four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby next on the agenda, it's not hard to see where the problems could arise.
The Commanders need to have a contingency plan in place. Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff were used sparingly when Bates left the action last time out. Washington might feel more comfortable about involving one of them more involved with some extra preparation time, but it'll be a journey into the unknown for all involved.
This development won't go unnoticed by Crosby. He's a ruthless, high-effort pass-rusher who'll smell blood in the water. He would give Conerly all he can handle, even with Bates in the fold. With the blocking specialist likely missing, and with Daniels also possibly out, it's a grave issue that needs the utmost care.
Quinn is weathering a severe storm right now. The Commanders have to navigate it successfully. Otherwise, the increased expectations on their shoulders will never be met.
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