Head coach Dan Quinn isn't looking to make excuses. He knows the Washington Commanders haven't performed well enough overall. However, the numerous injuries have been a leading factor in the team's demise.
Every franchise deals with health problems throughout the campaign. The Commanders have dealt with more than most, and those incidents have typically involved essential players. Three more issues occurred involving quarterback Jayden Daniels, wide receiver Luke McCaffrey, and veteran cornerback Marshon Lattimore in Week 9 against the Seattle Seahawks, further adding to the fans' pessimistic outlook.
Just what the Commanders would have been able to accomplish with a full-strength squad remains to be seen. But it has not helped whatsoever.
Deebo Samuel issues rallying cry amid Commanders' health problems
Deebo Samuel Sr. acknowledged that there are times when the constant stream of health problems has been challenging to comprehend. At the same time, the wide receiver knows that this squad needs to demonstrate the right resolve in a next-man-up mentality.
"You know, just the ones before that and all the other guys, it's just like, 'Jesus, like can we catch a break?' It's kind of like the injury bug but with this game comes that so we've kind of just got to take it on the chin and next man up mentality."
Deebo Samuel Sr. via Commanders.com
There is no point in wallowing. The Commanders need to pick things up quickly to avoid this campaign becoming a complete lost cause. While the injuries are impacting morale and exposing the team's lack of depth, looking back with regret is not an option.
This is all about moving forward. The Commanders have to find a way out of this concerning slump. They are under-strength, confidence-sapped, and everything in between. This is about high character and everyone pulling together in times of struggle — anything less, and this situation will only get worse before attention turns to the 2026 offseason.
Washington's back is against the wall. Nobody is expecting much from the Commanders over the second half of 2025. Most are anticipating things to get worse before they get better. And there will be significant changes aplenty from general manager Adam Peters when his third offseason begins.
That's for the future. For now, the Commanders have to roll up their sleeves, make the best of a bad situation, and fight as a collective unit in pursuit of turning the tide.
Easier said than done. But hopefully, some better luck on the injury front will finally arrive along the way.