The Washington Commanders got through the first week of training camp without any injuries. However, the injuries are accumulating, and the injury bug is even biting coaches.
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera announced that offensive line coach Travelle Wharton threw his back out and will miss “some time” as he recovers from surgery, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.
Wharton will not be with the team in Baltimore for the joint practices against the Ravens that start Tuesday.
The Commanders’ offensive line is one of the most significant question marks for the team going into the 2023-24 season. Outside of left tackle Charles Leno Jr., Washington will have new starters in the other four positions across the line.
The Commanders’ top free-agent pickup right tackle Andrew Wylie increased the concerns about the group in Friday’s preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns. Wylie had a holding penalty on each of the Commanders’ first two offensive drives. The second penalty led to a safety and two points for the Browns.
There is uncertainty at left guard as Saahdiq Charles and Chris Paul battle for the starting position. Second-round draft pick from 2021, Sam Cosmi, is shifting from right tackle to right guard. Nick Gates takes over at center as the Commanders released longtime starter Chase Roullier.
The two joint practices against the Ravens this week will give Washington more opportunity to season the offensive line. How Wharton’s absence affects the team’s preparation and progress remains to be seen. Not having him doesn’t help for a pieced-together unit.
