The Washington Commanders will be without a long list of key players for their second preseason game on Monday Night Football against the Cincinnati Bengals. The decision opens the door for many rookies and players on the bubble to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.
The Commanders’ offense will be missing several high-profile names, which will provide a clear look at the team’s depth:
• QB Marcus Mariota: With Mariota coming off of an injury and Jayden Daniels likely to see limited action, the spotlight will be on Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman vying for the third QB spot.
• WR Terry McLaurin & WR Noah Brown: Activated from the PUP list today, McLaurin is still involved in contract talks and has not returned to practice. Brown is still recovering from an injury.
• TE Zach Ertz: The veteran’s absence will allow other tight ends, like Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff, to showcase their abilities as potential backups.
• LT Laremy Tunsil, RG Sam Cosmi, & LG Brandon Coleman: Cosmi will miss the start of the season after his knee injury in last year’s playoffs. The offensive line will be a mix of mostly backups and rookies, giving the coaching staff a chance to see how they perform under live-game pressure.
On the defensive side, a number of key starters and recently signed veterans will also be on the sidelines:
• DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste: The team will get a chance to evaluate the depth at defensive end.
• LB Bobby Wagner & EDGE Von Miller: The veteran superstars’ absence will put the focus on younger linebackers and pass rushers fighting for playing time.
• LB Jordan Magee & CB Jonathan Jones: Magee misses another opportunity due to injury. Jones is a vet and has looked good in camp.
