The Washington Commanders are on the road for Week 2 of the preseason with a trip to Kansas City to play the high-flying Chiefs. Kansas City head coach Andy Reid said the Chiefs could play the entire first half, meaning the Commanders’ defense will get a good look at Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Meanwhile, Washington coach Ron Rivera said he’d “ideally” like to play his starters for a half; however, injuries could make that impossible. The Commanders have injuries to their top four tight ends and top three guards. Most of the injuries aren’t serious and are of the soft-tissue variety, but the injuries have created a lot of shuffling for Washington recently.
For several young players, the injuries create opportunities. Here are six Commanders to watch vs. Kansas City on Saturday.
QB Sam Howell
Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell (14). Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Starting quarterback Carson Wentz is a player to watch, but there’s a chance he doesn’t play too deep into the game due to the current state of Washington’s offensive line. Taylor Heinicke will play, and rookie Sam Howell should see most of the action.
Howell was terrific in his NFL debut last week, showing off his big-time arm and athleticism. He almost led Washington to a come-from-behind win in the fourth quarter before the defense allowed a game-winning field goal. Can Howell build off his debut performance last week?
Washington fans are excited to see Howell’s encore.
RB Brian Robinson Jr.
Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. (8) celebrates his touchdown in front of offensive tackle Charles Leno Jr. (72). (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr. entered last week’s game after Antonio Gibson’s fumble and looked the part of a starting running back. Robinson dominated an entire drive, where he also showed off his ability as a receiver.
It will be interesting to see how offensive coordinator Scott Turner splits running back reps between Gibson and Robinson. Jaret Patterson should also figure into the mix with Jonathan Williams. J.D. McKissic doesn’t need to play.
TE Armani Rogers
Washington Commanders tight end Armani Rogers (88) makes a catch as Carolina Panthers safety Xavier Woods (25). (Shaban Athuman/Richmond Times-Dispatch via AP)
Rookie tight end Armani Rogers earned several looks…
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