Some might consider the Washington Commanders' 3-2 start to the season as an underachievement. However, several mitigating factors are involved.
Mainly, how many injuries the Commanders have dealt with over the opening five weeks of the campaign.
Some have suffered long-term complications and are out for the season. Others, such as quarterback Jayden Daniels, missed a couple of weeks but are now back. And the Commanders are now getting ready for the return that could redefine their season.
And it's not the most obvious candidate that comes to mind.
Commanders are getting a game-changer back at just the right time
Head coach Dan Quinn is optimistic that some influential figures could be cleared to participate on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears in Week 6. Those include the wide receiver tandem of Noah Brown and second-team All-Pro Terry McLaurin, whose presence hasn't been missed as much as fans thought, thanks to the efforts of others.
Sam Cosmi is a different story.
The formidable right guard hasn't been seen in a competitive setting since tearing his ACL in Washington's divisional round playoff success over the Detroit Lions. Cosmi worked exceptionally hard throughout the summer, hitting his targets and displaying tremendous mental strength in overcoming adversity. His 21-day return window was opened last week, and Quinn is hopeful that he can suit up in primetime at Northwest Stadium.
Washington will remain cautious with Cosmi. He is practicing, but some conditioning issues must be resolved before confidence increases. Whether it's this week or next, the former Texas standout is getting extremely close. And this will be like having a new signing with Pro Bowl-caliber talent walk through the door.
Andrew Wylie has done an admirable job over the last three games on the interior. Nick Allegretti couldn't meet the required standards, but the previous starter at tackle has looked much more assured. Even so, Cosmi has earned the right to walk back in when he gets the all-clear.
This will also round off an offensive line that looks like a real force. Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. are quickly evolving into a dominant tackle tandem. Tyler Biadasz is the glue guy at center, providing stability and pre-snap communication with effortless efficiency. Chris Paul is coming of age at the left guard spot after replacing 2024 third-round pick Brandon Coleman.
Cosmi would be the icing on the cake. He's a franchise cornerstone, an unassuming but physically imposing force who leads by example and spearheaded the team's renaissance in 2024.
Now, he's back, and the NFL is firmly on notice.