Injury Concerns Mount for Commanders Ahead of NFC Championship Clash

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Washington Commanders face significant injury challenges as they prepare to take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game on Sunday. Key defensive players, including linebacker Bobby Wagner and defensive tackle Daron Payne, are battling injuries that could impact the team’s performance in their bid to reach the Super Bowl.

Wagner, who missed practice earlier in the week due to an ankle injury, returned for a limited session on Friday and has no injury designation for the game. The veteran linebacker, aiming for his third Super Bowl appearance, will play a crucial role in containing Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. “We know what Saquon brings to the table,” Wagner said earlier this week. “It’s going to take a collective effort to limit him.”

Meanwhile, Payne, a cornerstone of the Commanders’ defense, remains questionable after missing his third consecutive practice due to knee and finger injuries. Payne has not missed a game in four seasons and leads the team in snaps among interior defenders. His potential absence would be a significant blow to a defense already struggling against the run, ranking 29th in the league in run defense and overall defensive grade, according to Pro Football Focus.

If Payne is unable to play, Jer'Zhan Newton and Sheldon Day are expected to see increased roles. Both players ranked in the bottom half of eligible interior defenders this season, raising concerns about the Commanders’ ability to contain the Eagles’ offense. “Daron is a huge part of what we do,” said defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. “We’ll need others to step up if he can’t go.”

The Commanders will also be without right guard Sam Cosmi, who suffered a torn ACL earlier in the week. Additionally, quarterback Jeff Driskel (illness) and defensive end Javontae Jean-Baptiste (shoulder) are listed as questionable.

On the Eagles’ side, quarterback Jalen Hurts will play with a knee brace, but the team remains confident in his ability to lead them to victory. The Eagles are one win away from returning to the Super Bowl, and their offense will look to exploit the Commanders’ defensive vulnerabilities.

Sunday’s game, set to kick off at 3 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field, will determine which team advances to Super Bowl LIX. The Commanders, seeking their first Super Bowl appearance since 1991, face an uphill battle against an Eagles team riding high on momentum and home-field advantage.