The Washington Commanders will have to continue their postseason run without starting right guard Sam Cosmi, who suffered a torn ACL in Saturday’s divisional round win over the Detroit Lions. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the injury on Sunday, ruling Cosmi out for the remainder of the playoffs.
Cosmi, a second-round pick in the 2021 draft, has been a key figure on Washington’s offensive line, starting every game this season. His loss is significant for the Commanders as they prepare for the NFC Championship Game, where they will face the winner of the Philadelphia Eagles-Los Angeles Rams matchup on January 26.
The injury occurred during running back Brian Robinson Jr.’s 2-yard touchdown run in the second quarter of Saturday’s 45-31 win. Cosmi appeared to be blocking when he suffered the injury, and Quinn expressed his disappointment after the game.
“Really bummed on Sam,” Quinn said. “That’s a big loss for us.”
Veteran Trent Scott stepped in for Cosmi after the injury and filled in admirably for the remainder of the game. Scott, who has mostly played tackle for Washington this season, has experience at guard, having spent time there with the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers in previous seasons.
“Trent did a really good job,” Quinn said. “We’ll evaluate the matchups and decide how to move forward, but he stepped up when needed.”
In addition to Scott, the Commanders have veteran Michael Deiter as another option. Deiter has started 35 games in his six-year career, with experience at both guard and center. He started two games at center for Washington this season but could be called upon to step in at guard.
Cosmi’s injury is another setback for the Commanders’ offensive line, which has been a solid unit throughout the season. The 24-year-old Cosmi’s versatility in both pass protection and the run game has been critical to the Commanders’ success.
Washington will now have to adjust to life without Sam Cosmi for their NFC Championship Game and beyond. As they await their next opponent, the Washington Commanders will rely on their depth and experience to fill the void and keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive.
