It’s been a rough couple of weeks for the Washington Commanders on the injury front. When the Commanders signed four new players on Tuesday, many wondered how Washington would make room for them. Head coach Dan Quinn then revealed several new injuries on the same day that center Nick Allegretti and tight end John Bates returned to practice.
While most of the injuries didn’t appear to be long-term concerns, one did. Defensive tackle Johnny Newton missed practice on Tuesday and Wednesday. Quinn gave an update on Newton.
“Johnny Newton injured his pec during the game,” Quinn said. "He’s currently in New York seeing a specialist there, so I’ll give you an update tomorrow after their meeting.”
When asked if he was concerned it was a long-term issue,
Quinn didn't know yet.
“It could be. I’ll have an update later today. Anytime you go see a specialist with a pec, it could be [long-term].”
Later on Wednesday, NFL insider Jordan Schultz confirmed the worst. Newton did indeed tear his pec and underwent surgery and is expected to “miss significant time.”
Sources: #Commanders DT Johnny Newton underwent surgery for a torn pectoral muscle and is expected to miss significant time.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 20, 2026
The former Illinois standout has 82 tackles, 7 sacks (5 last year), 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery in 33 career games. pic.twitter.com/OVq4mvoxYT
Newton, the No. 36 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was a part of Washington’s defensive line rotation behind Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw and Tim Settle. 2025 undrafted free agent Ricky Barber Jr. will battle veterans Shy Tuttle and Byron Cowart for what’s likely the final roster spot at defensive tackle.
In 33 career games, including 13 starts, Newton has recorded 82 tackles, including 10 for loss and seven sacks.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Bad news confirmed for Commanders; Defensive tackle suffers significant injury
