Commanders’ Offensive Command, in Doubt for the Game Against the Bears
ASHBURN, Va. – The Washington Commanders could face the Chicago Bears on Monday with significant absences in their receiving corps. The situation is delicate, as two of their three main receivers are ruled out and the participation of the third is uncertain.
Coach Dan Quinn confirmed the absence of Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee) for the game. In addition, the availability of Deebo Samuel, who is suffering from a heel contusion, will be determined until Monday itself.
McLaurin will miss his third consecutive game, while Brown will be absent for the fourth time. Samuel, for his part, has participated in all five games of the season. The player worked separately from the team with the strength and conditioning coaches.
McLaurin suffered the quadriceps injury on September 21, during the game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The receiver was attempting a 56-yard reception when he took a hit. In Saturday’s practice, he was seen running sprints on a side field.
Brown, for his part, had limited participation in Wednesday and Thursday’s practices. Although he was able to run routes at maximum speed, Quinn stated that he is still not recovered.
McLaurin, who signed a three-year contract extension in late August, accumulated 10 receptions for 149 yards and no touchdowns in the first three games.
Samuel has become the Commanders’ main target and his absence would be a hard blow. He currently leads the team with 30 receptions, 300 yards, and three touchdowns.
In the last two weeks, without McLaurin and Brown, Samuel totaled 14 receptions for 168 yards.
Brown had three receptions for 36 yards in the first two games. In 11 games last season, he caught 35 passes for 453 yards and a touchdown. In addition, he was second in the NFL with six defensive pass interference penalties.
Brown was key in catching a 52-yard pass from Jayden Daniels on the final play against Chicago last season.
