Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn expressed cautious optimism on Monday about the availability of cornerback Amik Robertson and receiver Treylon Burks for Thursday’s NFC East showdown against the New York Giants. Both players have been sidelined by injuries in recent weeks, and their potential returns come as Washington tries to arrest a slide after Sunday’s 20-13 home loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Robertson suffered an ankle injury during the defeat to the Rams but showed signs of improvement in the days following. Quinn said, “He ended up doing better with his ankle. So I would say I am optimistic as we’re heading into tomorrow and Wednesday. So it was a good turnaround for him.” The cornerback has been a physical presence in the Commanders’ secondary this season, and his return would help shore up a defence that struggled against the Rams.
Treylon Burks missed Sunday’s game due to a foot injury sustained the previous week against the Philadelphia Eagles. Quinn reported that Burks has been participating in some practice work recently. “Yes, he got some (work) in Saturday, and he’ll get more in tomorrow to see what his readiness looks like. Yes, we’re definitely more optimistic heading into this one (game). So tomorrow will be a big day to have a better sense of where we are.”
The Commanders have faced a string of setbacks among their receiving corps. Terry McLaurin was placed on injured reserve and is out for the season, while Dyami Brown is expected to miss at least through Week 12. Burks has emerged as a more prominent target since McLaurin’s injury, registering 12 receptions with an average of 19.4 yards per catch and two touchdowns this season.
Washington heads to face the NFC East-leading Giants, who hold a 5-2-1 record, after a tie in their first meeting this year. The earlier game ended 27-27, with Washington unable to attempt a potential winning field goal as the clock expired. The Commanders currently trail the Giants and the Dallas Cowboys (4-5) in the division standings following the loss to the Rams.
After the early-season promise, Washington’s hopes of mounting a serious division challenge suffered a blow last Sunday. The return of Robertson and Burks would offer at least some relief as the team prepares to travel to New York on Thursday night. Quinn’s comments suggest both players are trending toward availability but remain unconfirmed.
The Commanders’ injury issues extend beyond the receivers. Robertson’s status is critical for the defensive unit, which has needed his aggressive play to contain opposing passing attacks. A timely recovery from his ankle injury could influence the team’s ability to slow down the Giants’ offence.
As of Monday, the Commanders remain in a wait-and-see mode, with the final decisions on Robertson and Burks expected after further practice evaluations later this week. The team’s preparation for a key divisional clash hinges heavily on the health reports due before game day.
According to Yahoo Sports.
