In a season where defense has been the dominant force for the Commanders, defensive end Clelin Ferrell has been a standout performer with the only two sacks for the team through the first two weeks. However, as the Commanders gear up to face off against quarterback Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, there is a looming question of who will step up in Ferrell’s absence.
Ferrell has been ruled out of the Commanders’ lineup for their road game in Cincinnati due to a knee injury that kept him out of practice on Thursday and Saturday. Despite being limited in practice on Friday, it was ultimately decided that he would not be able to suit up for the game.
With Ferrell sidelined, the Commanders will be looking towards Jamin Davis, Jer’Zhan Newton, and Javontae Jean-Baptiste as their defensive end options on the active roster. It will be crucial for one of these players to step up and fill the void left by Ferrell’s absence in order to pressure Burrow and disrupt the Bengals’ offense.
In addition to Ferrell, cornerback Emmanuel Forbes is also dealing with an injury concern. Forbes missed last week’s game due to thumb surgery and is listed as questionable for Monday night’s matchup. His potential absence would further test the depth of the Commanders’ defense and put pressure on the secondary to perform against a talented Bengals receiving corps.
As the Commanders prepare to face off against the Bengals in a pivotal matchup on Monday night, the spotlight will be on the defense to rise to the occasion in the absence of key playmakers like Clelin Ferrell and Emmanuel Forbes. It will be a test of depth and resilience for Washington as they look to contain Burrow and secure a crucial victory on the road.
