"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."
Multiple key injuries have hampered the Washington Commanders, with Austin Ekeler and Deatrich Wise Jr. out for the season and quarterback Jayden Daniels doubtful with a sprained knee. Noah Brown and John Bates exited with groin issues, and Bates is considered a long shot to play. Bates has become a standout blocker and earned a long-term deal; his absence would particularly imperil rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr., who struggled without blocking help in Week 2. With elite edge rusher Maxx Crosby looming, the team must prepare contingency plans and consider expanded roles for Ben Sinnott or Colson Yankoff.
Read at Riggo's Rag
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]