Running back Chris Rodriguez and wide receiver Deebo Samuel are both questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.
Rodriguez, who has dealt with a groin injury this week, did not participate in practice on Wednesday but returned in a limited capacity on Thursday and Friday. Samuel was added to the injury report on Friday with an illness and was given the day off by the coaching staff.
Rodriguez, a 2023 sixth-round pick, has emerged as the Commanders' primary running back over the last few weeks. Rodriguez has averaged 4.6 yards per carry in 11 games, but his usage has increased since the Commanders' Week 9 game against the Seattle Seahawks. Over the last five games, he has led the team with 253 yards and three rushing touchdowns on 54 carries.
The Commanders have three options to replace Rodriguez if he is inactive on Sunday. Veteran Jeremy McNichols provides help as a pass catcher in addition to averaging 6.6 yards per carry. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, despite his role decreasing in recent weeks, adds quickness and vision as a runner.
Chase Edmonds, who was added to the active roster following Zach Ertz's season-ending ACL tear, is also an option. Edmonds has 1,972 yards and 11 touchdowns on 450 carries in seven seasons.
Samuel has been one of the Commanders' most productive weapons and one of the team's most available offensive players this season. If he is unable to play this weekend, it could mean more snaps for rookie Jaylin Lane, who has 16 receptions for 225 yards.
The Commanders have three players ruled out for Sunday: cornerback Jonathan Jones (rib), quarterback Jayden Daniels (left elbow) and defensive end Drake Jackson (groin/knee). Daniels being unavailable is not a surprise, as head coach Dan Quinn ruled him out on Wednesday. Jackson, who was recently activated off Injured Reserve, is still recovering from the injuries he had when he signed with the Commandersearlier this season.
Jones did not practice all week, leaving the Commanders' depth at cornerback in doubt. The secondary has already sustained several losses, including starters Marshon Lattimore and rookie Trey Amos. Their current options include Mike Sainristil, Noah Igbinoghene and Antonio Hamilton Sr.
Here is the Commanders' final injury report for the week:
| Player | Injury | Wednesday | Thursdy | Friday | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QB Jayden Daniels | Left Elbow | Limited | Limited | Limited | OUT |
| DE Drake Jackson | Groin/Knee | DNP | Limited | Limited | OUT |
| CB Jonathan Jones | Rib | DNP | DNP | DNP | OUT |
| RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. | Groin | DNP | LImited | Limited | QUESTIONABLE |
| WR Deebo Samuel | Illness | DNP | QUESTIONABLE | ||
| WR Noah Brown | Groin/Knee/NIR (Rest) | Full | Full | DNP | |
| T Noah Fant | Knee | Full | Full | Full | |
| WR Terry McLaurin | NIR (Rest) | DNP | |||
| LB Bobby Wagner | Knee | DNP | DNP | Full |











