Commanders have a Week 4 breakout brewing and the league has no idea

Injuries are all part of the NFL's violent nature. The Washington Commanders are having to plow through some turbulence on the health front just three games into the campaign, but those in power are confident their enhanced depth can keep complications to a minimum.

The coaching staff looked to raise competition across the board this offseason. Every position was earned, and the added urgency made everyone better. This had the desired effect, which was further evidenced by the under-strength Commanders coming through their test against the Las Vegas Raiders pretty comfortably.

Dan Quinn's resolve has passed over to his players. The injury complications aren't ideal, but everyone is ready to step up if, or when, their number is called.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. could have a big day for the Commanders in Week 4

That could mean the Commanders have a Week 4 breakout brewing with third-year running back Chris Rodriguez Jr.

Rodriguez flashed over the preseason to earn his spot on the 53-man roster. This also played a role in Adam Peters trading Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers for a sixth-round pick. However, being a healthy scratch over the opening two contests represented a blow.

The former Kentucky standout got his chance to shine when Austin Ekeler was ruled out for the campaign with a torn Achilles. He led all Washington players in carries with 11, rushing for 39 yards, and the Commanders gashed the Raiders for 200. Another opportunity knocks this weekend against an Atlanta Falcons team that looked lackluster in all phases in their shutout loss to the Carolina Panthers.

Carolina was able to dictate the tempo, getting the run game going early and leaning on its improving defense to lead the charge. Chuba Hubbard, who has a lot of similar traits to Rodriguez, fought his way to 73 rushing yards off 17 carries. Wearing down the defensive front is key. If the Commanders can do that, they have a good chance of achieving success.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols will also gain their fair share of touches as the Commanders move to a committee backfield approach. But if they want to make a statement, Rodriguez is the guy who can gain those hard yards between the tackles to keep the defense honest.

Even if quarterback Jayden Daniels plays, his mobility could be restricted by a knee sprain. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury needs to rely on the ground game just as much as he did without the No. 2 pick in 2024. Rodriguez must set the tone with physical presence and sound contact balance. If this mission is accomplished, everything else should fall into place.

Rodriguez has overcome adversity. He's had to fight for everything coming his way after several setbacks in Washington. That should serve him well as he looks to solidify his place in the team's long-term plans.