The hits just keep on coming for the Washington Commanders. On Saturday, we learned that defensive tackle Daron Payne was headed to injured reserve after suffering a broken foot during practice on Friday. Payne became the eighth player to currently be on injured reserve, although a few have gone on IR and come back.
Earlier in the week, the Commanders opened the 21-day practice window for Jer'Zhan Newton, which seemed to be good timing after Payne's injury, and now it becomes even more important for Newton to get back on the field.
Defensive end Javon Kinlaw was injured in the game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, and on Wednesday, ESPN's Adam Schefter confirmed that Kinlaw underwent season-ending knee surgery.
Injury update: Commanders
DL Javon Kinlaw underwent season-ending surgery Tuesday on his MCL. Now Commanders defensive linemen Kinlaw and Daron Payne both have suffered season-ending injuries in recent weeks. pic.twitter.com/hHqlyexYdx
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 4, 2026
With this injury news, the Commanders' defensive front has become severely depleted. Newton was inactive against the Eagles last week, and his status for this week has yet to be determined. Without him, that leaves Charles Omenihu, Deatrich Wise Jr., Tim Settle, Shy Tuttle, and Ricky Barber in the rotation.
If Newton can get back on the field this Sunday, it would give the Commanders a huge defensive boost. But if he's not ready, Washington could be in for a long day against Matt Stafford & Co. if they can't generate enough pressure.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' Javon Kinlaw to miss remainder of season with injury
