Commanders Lose Javon Kinlaw as Injury Problems Mount

Heavy Blow to Defensive Front

The Washington Commanders have suffered another massive hit to their defense. Starter Javon Kinlaw underwent season ending knee surgery and is out for the remainder of the year. Kinlaw injured his MCL during Washington's Week 6 loss at San Francisco.

This news arrives less than a week after losing fellow starting defensive lineman Daron Payne for the season. Payne suffered a fractured foot in what was described as a fluke injury during a light Friday practice. That happened just two days before Washington earned a 27-10 victory over Philadelphia.

Both Kinlaw and Payne played end in Washington's base front and filled in at tackle in their nickel package. Their absence leaves big gaps up front for Washington as they prepare to host the 4-4 Rams this Sunday. Washington holds a 2-4-1 record on the season.

Strong Performers Sidelined

Kinlaw arrived in Washington after signing a three year deal in the 2025 offseason. He was a reliable presence up front, starting 23 consecutive games for the team before hurting his knee.

Before the injury, Kinlaw was having a solid year. He recorded two tackles for loss and produced a career best 5.2% of his tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage. Only six defensive linemen across the league had a higher percentage.

He was also making notable progress as a pass rusher. Kinlaw had already recorded one sack and three quarterback hits this season. After failing to record a sack last season, he was on pace to surpass his career high of six quarterback hits set with the 49ers in 2023.

Injury Crisis Mounts Across Roster

To deal with these absences, Washington introduced Charles Omenihu and Deatrich Wise Jr. into the starting lineup during the win over Philadelphia. The team also added nose tackle Tim Settle this season to help provide depth along the front.

However, the roster problems extend well beyond the defensive line. Washington lost top wide receiver Terry McLaurin to a torn patellar tendon in his left knee in Week 6.

The offensive backfield is also depleted. Leading rusher Jacory Croskey-Merritt is on injured reserve with a groin injury. Backup running back Jeremy McNichols was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a foot injury that head coach Dan Quinn described as serious.

Left tackle Laremy Tunsil suffered a torn triceps back on August 8. Coach Quinn mentioned that Tunsil has an upcoming checkup in a couple of weeks to determine if there is any chance he could return late in the season.