Okay, so here’s the deal. It’s playoff time, and the Washington Commanders are gearing up for their Wild Card rematch with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And honestly, it’s not just about the stats or matchups—it’s about who’s even healthy enough to step onto the field. Let’s break down the Friday injury report because, trust me, it’s a doozy.
The Good News: Marshon Lattimore Is Back
Finally! Marshon Lattimore, Washington’s star cornerback, will be suiting up on Sunday night. The guy has been sidelined for what feels like forever (six out of eight games since joining the team). Last time we saw him on the field, he was aggravating his hamstring injury against the Eagles. But now, he’s rested, ready, and apparently had a “vet rest day” today. Classic.
Oh, and it gets better. Lattimore loves these high-stakes matchups, especially against Tampa’s Mike Evans. These two have a history that’s juicier than your grandma’s Thanksgiving turkey. If Lattimore can lock down Evans, it could be the spark Washington’s defense needs.
The Question Mark: Jamison Crowder
Now, here’s where things get dicey. Jamison Crowder is officially listed as questionable after being limited in practice all week with—you guessed it—a hamstring injury. What’s with the hamstrings this season? Do we need to stretch more as a society?
Anyway, if Crowder can’t go, K.J. Osborne might get a shot. Remember him? Yeah, he’s the guy Washington scooped up off waivers from the Patriots. He hasn’t seen much action yet, but this could be his moment to shine. Or not. We’ll see.
Out But Not Forgotten: Colson Yankoff
Technically, Yankoff isn’t even on the active roster, but he’s worth mentioning. The tight end has been dealing with a hamstring injury (again with the hamstrings!) and is still on IR. He started practicing this week, so his 21-day window to return has opened. If Washington advances, he might be activated. Fingers crossed.
#WASvsTB game status
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) January 10, 2025
Full Go: Everyone Else
Let’s take a breather here because there’s a laundry list of players who are banged up but cleared to play:
- Jayden Daniels (QB): He had “leg soreness” (aka quad injury) last week but has been a full participant all week. He’s good to go.
- Tyler Biadasz (C): Missed the Cowboys game with an ankle injury. He’s back. And thank goodness, because his backup, Michael Deiter, has been… well, let’s just say it’s been rough.
- Clelin Ferrell (DE): The knee injury he’s been managing since training camp? No biggie. He’s playing.
- John Bates (TE): Shoulder issues? Pfft, he’s fine.
- Brandon Coleman (LT): Took a knee knock against Dallas but practiced fully. Let’s hope it holds up.
- Frankie Luvu (LB): Limited earlier this week, but no way he’s missing this game.
It’s like half the team is held together with duct tape and determination, but hey, it’s the playoffs.
Why This Matters
Health is wealth, especially in January football. The Commanders haven’t been in the playoffs since 2020, and this rematch against the Buccaneers feels like a chance for redemption. A healthy Lattimore could be the difference-maker in containing Tampa’s offense. Crowder’s absence, though, might leave a gap in the passing game if Washington’s depth doesn’t step up.
So, pack your snacks and clear your schedule. Sunday night is going to be a grind. Who knows what’ll happen? Maybe Lattimore will snag a pick. Maybe K.J. Osborne will have a breakout game. Or maybe we’ll all be Googling “hamstring injury prevention” by Monday morning.