Posted By Caspian Beaumont On 14 Oct 2025 Comments (0)
When Washington Commanders revealed that star receiver Terry McLaurin was ruled out for Monday Night Football, the buzz in Landover turned into a nervous murmur. The team, sitting 3‑3 and second in the NFC East, will meet the Chicago Bears at Northwest Stadium on Monday, October 13, 2025, kickoff 8:15 PM Eastern. Adding to the drama, offensive guard Sam Cosmi was downgraded from questionable to out, leaving the line scrambling for depth.
Injury List: Who's Missing and Why It Matters
Beyond McLaurin and Cosmi, the Commanders’ official injury report listed several other key absences. Linebacker Ale Kaho cleared concussion protocol but was still listed inactive – a decision that raised eyebrows among the medical staff. Defensive tackle Eddie Goldman sat out with an illness that hasn’t been disclosed, while veteran quarterback Josh Johnson was held out by coach Ron Rivera as a precaution, though he’ll remain on the bench as the emergency third‑string option.
Other starters sidelined include linebacker Kain Medrano, tackle Brandon Coleman, and wide receiver Noah Brown. Defensive end Dorance Armstrong is listed as questionable with a lingering hamstring strain – a status that could flip any minute before the game.
Depth Chart Disruption: How the Line and Receivers Look
With McLaurin gone, quarterback Jayden Daniels loses his primary target on the outside. The next three options – Mekhi Gardner, James Washington, and rookie Tyler Jones – have limited chemistry, which could force Daniels into a more run‑heavy approach.
The offensive line faces a similar crisis. With Cosmi out, the guard rotation now relies on backup Chris Esposito and a makeshift combo of tackle John Hoke sliding inside. The unit has already yielded five sacks per game this season, and the Bears’ pass rush, led by rookie defensive end Jared Allen, is primed to exploit any weakness.
What the Bears Bring to the Table
The Bears enter the contest with a relatively clean bill of health. Their own injury report shows only one starter – safety Jordan Jones – listed questionable with a minor ankle tweak. Head athletic trainer Nate Bubeck confirmed the team will be at full strength, which could give them a decisive edge in a game that may turn into a defensive slog.
Offensively, quarterback Justin Fields has been averaging 265 passing yards per game, and his favorite target, tight end Cole Kmet, is healthy. The Bears’ run game, anchored by running back Jordan Howard, should keep the Commanders’ depleted front seven honest.
Medical Staff Decisions: A Closer Look at the Protocols
The decision to keep Kaho on the sidelines despite concussion clearance sparked a debate among fans and analysts. Director of Sports Medicine Ryan Vermillion said the move was made "in consultation with independent neuro‑trauma specialists, per NFL policy, to protect the player's long‑term health." While some argue the move was overly cautious, the league’s heightened focus on head injuries makes the caution understandable.
Commanders head team physician Dr. David T. Bernhardt has been overseeing a cascade of injuries that now includes nine players on injured reserve. The IR list features defensive end Javontae Jean‑Baptiste (pectoral, returns Week 9), safety Will Harris (lower‑leg, returns Week 10), and cornerback Jonathan Jones (hamstring, returns Week 7), among others. The sheer volume of IR designations is the highest since the franchise’s 2022 season.
What’s at Stake: NFC East Implications
The NFC East race is tighter than a New England winter. With the Dallas Cowboys holding a 4‑2 record, the Commanders need a win to stay within striking distance. A loss could push them to third place, hand the division lead to the Philadelphia Eagles, and potentially jeopardize a playoff berth.
Given the offensive constraints, many analysts are betting on a defensive showdown. If the Commanders’ defense can generate turnovers – something they’ve done at a 1.8 % take‑away rate this year – they might keep the game close enough for a field‑goal finish.
Looking Ahead: Week 7 vs. Cowboys
Regardless of Monday’s outcome, the real test comes a week later when Washington faces the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Cosmi’s status will be a key storyline; a return could solidify the interior line and give Daniels a more reliable pocket.
The Commanders also hope to see veteran wideout Mike Williams back from a groin strain. If he’s cleared, the receiving corps may finally have enough depth to keep the offense moving while the team’s defensive unit continues to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Terry McLaurin's absence affect the Commanders' passing game?
McLaurin accounts for roughly 28 % of Washington’s total receiving yards this season. Without him, quarterback Jayden Daniels will rely on less‑tested targets, which could lower his completion rate by an estimated 7‑9 % and force the offense to lean on the run game.
Why was Ale Kaho kept out despite passing concussion protocol?
Team medical director Ryan Vermillion explained that, beyond the formal protocol, the Commanders consulted independent neuro‑trauma experts who recommended extra caution. The decision aligns with the NFL’s recent emphasis on long‑term brain health.
Can the Bears exploit the Commanders' weakened offensive line?
Yes. The Bears have ranked in the top 10 for sacks per game, and with Sam Cosmi out, Washington’s interior protection drops to a career‑low. Expect the Bears’ pass rush to generate at least three sacks, putting additional pressure on Daniels.
What does this injury slate mean for the Commanders' playoff hopes?
A loss could drop Washington to third in the NFC East, making a Wild Card berth more reliant on other teams' results. Even a win won’t guarantee a playoff spot, but it keeps the team within striking distance of the division lead.
When might Sam Cosmi be cleared to play again?
Cosmi’s injury was listed as a minor strain, and the team’s medical staff expects a return within two weeks. If all goes well, he could be back for the Week 7 showdown against Dallas.