After losing their starting quarterback in the 2021 season opener, the Washington Commanders now worry a battered offensive line jeopardizes Carson Wentz. Indeed, the passer may not play too much against Kansas City on Saturday.
Coach Ron Rivera said starters would normally play the first half in the second preseason game, maybe even return for an opening third-quarter drive. But, with guards Trai Turner, Andrew Norwell and Wes Schweitzer injured with no return timetables, Washington suddenly has little-used Saahdiq Charles and Aaron Monteiro as possible starters. Right tackle Sam Cosmi even practiced at guard for emergency situations.
That's not good. Not only does Washington hope for an interior running game with rookie Brian Robinson, but it needs to protect Wentz, too. Losing another passer is a sure way to a lackluster season.
Wentz's time is essentially the dress rehearsal for the regular season, given the third preseason game for reserves will be limited. If Washington doesn't get healthy by its Sept. 11 opener versus Jacksonville, its season will be limited, too.
Not good. Not good at all.
Washington's preseason-opening loss to Carolina on Aug. 13 exposed several concerns. The Commanders need a kickoff and punt returner so Antonio Gibson and Jahan Dotson respectively will be tested. Gibson needs a role anyway because Robinson appears the primary back after the former's fumbling versus Carolina.
The defense's zone coverage still has more communication problems than trees falling in a forest. No one hears the others, especially on third downs.
Tight end is also down to two players even ardent fans couldn't name before camp thanks to injuries. The problem is Wentz loves throwing to tight ends, doing so the most of any NFL passer over the last five years.
And, Wentz loves holding on to the ball too long. If Kansas City breaks Washington's inside blocking, it can pummel Wentz.
That's what worries Rivera. No way he wants a repeat of last year when losing Ryan Fitzpatrick 20 minutes into the season. Washington can always use Robinson as a blocker, but that takes away an option. Too bad Washington's tight end depth is too depleted to help.
Wentz has spent months throwing to Washington's receivers via offseason OTAs, minicamp and training camp. His timing is getting better, but that's not live action. Teammates can't hit Wentz in practice, but Kansas City will seek a knockout blow.
That means Wentz loses valuable time, though it's not a backbreaker. Backups Taylor Heinicke and Sam Howell are more mobile and need playing time, too. Let the Chiefs chase them instead.
The NFL is always about survive and advance each week. It just usually doesn't start in August.
Rick Snider has covered Washington sports since 1978. Follow him on Twitter: @Snide_Remarks.