As we head into Sunday’s showdown at U.S. Bank Stadium, both the Washington Commanders and Minnesota Vikings have released their final injury reports-and there’s no shortage of intrigue on either side. Let’s break down what these updates mean heading into a matchup that could swing on depth, health, and a few key game-time decisions.
Washington Commanders Injury Report
Out:
- OT George Fant (Knee)
- DE Drake Jackson (Knee/Groin)
Questionable:
- WR Noah Brown (Groin/Knee)
- LB Bobby Wagner (Knee)
The Commanders will be without two important pieces in Fant and Jackson, both ruled out due to lower-body injuries. Fant’s absence is particularly notable along an offensive line that’s already been tested this season. Without him, Washington will need to shuffle protections and possibly lean on younger, less experienced linemen to keep the pocket clean.
On the defensive side, Jackson’s dual injury knocks him out of the edge rotation, which puts more pressure on the remaining pass rushers to generate heat-especially against a Vikings offense that can get into rhythm quickly if given time.
Now, the two big question marks: Noah Brown and Bobby Wagner.
Wagner, the veteran linebacker, didn’t practice Wednesday or Thursday but returned in a limited role Friday. That’s usually a sign a player is trending toward being active, but it’ll likely come down to how his knee responds during pregame warmups. If he can go, Wagner’s presence in the middle would be a major boost for Washington’s run defense and leadership on the field.
As for Brown, his practice week took an odd turn. He was a full participant early in the week, then didn’t practice Friday.
That kind of pattern often signals either a rest day or a late-week setback. If he’s unavailable, it could open the door for more targets to go to the Commanders’ younger wideouts or tight ends in the passing game.
But the headline in D.C. is the return of quarterback Jayden Daniels, who’s been fully cleared and will start for the first time since injuring his non-throwing elbow back in Week 9. His return adds a dynamic element back into the offense-his dual-threat ability changes how defenses have to prepare. The Commanders’ playoff hopes may be slim, but getting Daniels back on the field is a major development for both the present and the future of this team.
Minnesota Vikings Injury Report
Out:
- DL Levi Drake Rodriguez (Neck)
Questionable:
- RB Ty Chandler (Knee)
- OT Christian Darrisaw (Knee)
- G Donovan Jackson (Ankle)
Rodriguez being ruled out thins the Vikings’ defensive line rotation, which could become a factor late in the game if Washington leans on the run and tries to wear down Minnesota in the trenches.
The biggest name to watch here is Christian Darrisaw, the Vikings’ standout left tackle. He followed his familiar pattern this week-full practice, rest day, full practice.
That usually bodes well for his availability, and if he’s active, it’s a major plus for the Vikings' pass protection and run game. When Darrisaw is healthy, this offensive line plays with a different level of confidence and cohesion.
Guard Donovan Jackson, meanwhile, didn’t practice Wednesday and was limited the rest of the week. His status is up in the air, and if he can’t go, Minnesota will need to adjust their interior line-which could impact both the run game and pass protection, especially against Washington’s interior defenders.
Then there’s Ty Chandler, still within the 21-day practice window after coming off injured reserve. He’s listed as questionable, but the team would need to make a roster move by Saturday to activate him. If they do, Chandler could provide a change-of-pace option in the backfield-his burst and vision are assets that could come in handy, particularly if the Vikings want to keep their ground game fresh and unpredictable.
What It All Means
Both teams are dealing with a handful of injuries to key contributors, and Sunday’s game may come down to which side handles those absences more effectively. For Washington, the return of Jayden Daniels is the headline, but the uncertainty around Wagner and Brown could have ripple effects on both sides of the ball. For Minnesota, the status of Darrisaw and Chandler could shape the offense’s rhythm and explosiveness.
Kickoff is getting closer, and the inactives list on Sunday morning will give us the final puzzle pieces. Until then, both coaching staffs are likely preparing for multiple scenarios-because in December football, depth and adaptability often determine who walks away with the win.