Commanders have a Week 5 breakout brewing and the league has no idea

"The Washington Commanders have been decimated by injuries this season. Head coach Dan Quinn is trying to weather the storm, but he'll be without two key offensive playmakers once again during their challenging road game against the Los Angeles Chargers this weekend. Second-team All-Pro wide receiver Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown won't be traveling to Los Angeles after already being ruled out."

"Sam Cosmi doesn't make the trip either, but nobody expected him to after having the prolific right guard's 21-day window opened this week. Washington is desperately short of dependable options in the passing game. Deebo Samuel Sr., who has been a significant bright spot since joining the Commanders via trade from the San Francisco 49ers, didn't practice on Wednesday or Thursday with a heel issue. His status is unclear, but it's unlikely he'll be at 100 percent."

"Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury must make the best of a difficult situation. His options are minimal, but this could provide the perfect platform for Luke McCaffrey to continue his encouraging recent growth. Not many gave McCaffrey a shot at featuring much on the offensive rotation this season. The 2024 third-round pick is being brought along gradually by the coaching staff, and rightfully so. However, health problems have left Washington with no choice but to throw him into the fire."

Washington's offense is severely depleted by injuries, with Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown ruled out and Sam Cosmi also absent after his 21-day window opened. Deebo Samuel Sr. missed practices with a heel issue and is unlikely to be at full strength. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury faces limited options and must rework the passing game. Third-round rookie Luke McCaffrey has received increased opportunities and scored touchdowns in consecutive games. McCaffrey has earned growing trust and should see a heavy Week 5 workload as Washington leans on younger pass-catchers against the Chargers. Jayden Daniels' return alters dynamics but still requires trust in McCaffrey.

Read at Riggo's Rag