Quinn announces four players unavailable
Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn announced Saturday that four players will be ruled out for the team's game against the 49ers. "I will give you four that we will rule out today," Quinn said, adding, "Those four will be Bill, Javontae, Charles and Marcus."
The players Quinn identified as out are running back Jacory-Croskey-Merritt, outside linebacker Javontae Jean-Baptiste, defensive end Charles Omenihu and quarterback Marcus Mariota.
Jacory-Croskey-Merritt's injury and recent form
Jacory-Croskey-Merritt has been ruled out for Monday's matchup with a groin injury. He originally suffered the groin issue in preseason and reinjured it during Washington's tie with the Giants, and he did not practice on Thursday or Friday, casting doubt on his availability.
That absence comes after Croskey-Merritt delivered his best performance of the season last week, finishing with 82 rushing yards on 11 carries, including a 33-yard touchdown run.
Backfield depth and short-term outlook
With Jacory-Croskey-Merritt sidelined, short-term carry distribution will be a focus for the Commanders. Newsweek reported that carries would likely shift to Rachaad White and Austin Ekeler, and that both players are currently listed as questionable — White with a shoulder issue and Ekeler with a chest issue.
Newsweek also noted that Washington's upcoming bye in Week 7 could give Croskey-Croskey-Merritt additional time to recover, though there is no confirmed return date.
Quinn's ruling-out of four players narrows the active roster options heading into a tough road test against San Francisco and forces the Commanders to adjust both their defensive front and offensive backfield plans. The club will have to rely on available depth while monitoring recovery timelines over the coming days.
