Commanders just got a monumental win days before Chargers trip

The Washington Commanders could use a morale boost or two right now. Head coach Dan Quinn is navigating an early-season storm, with inconsistent performances on the field, coupled with some concerning complications on the injury front, raising severe concerns among the fan base.

Thankfully, help is on the way.

Washington confirmed that they have activated interior offensive lineman Sam Cosmi's 21-day return to practice window heading into Week 5 against the Los Angeles Chargers. The stud right guard has been out of action since the Commanders' memorable divisional round playoff triumph over the Detroit Lions, so his imminent participation represents a massive plus when his team needed it most.

Commanders should remain cautious with Sam Cosmi despite major step forward

The Commanders have taken things slowly with Cosmi, which was the correct call. Torn ACLs are still incredibly serious, especially for those in the trenches. Quinn has been encouraged by his progress, claiming throughout the summer that he was hitting all the markers on his long road to recovery. However, when the former Texas star began the campaign on the physically unable to perform list, nobody was surprised.

Cosmi has been working incredibly hard behind the scenes to get himself back on track. The Commanders' offensive line has greatly missed his presence, with Nick Allegretti failing to meet expectations before Andrew Wylie steadied the ship somewhat.

This is an exciting development, but it doesn't significantly alter the situation in the grand scheme of things.

It remains a step-by-step process for Cosmi. He's clearly getting closer to featuring on game days. Still, the Commanders are not going to rush him back and risk complications arising. He's still a couple of weeks from logging reps, most likely. But the fact that he's coming back so soon from a grave complication is only going to help Washington's chances over the second half of 2025.

Cosmi emerged as an inspirational difference-maker after being switched from tackle to the right guard spot. The Commanders recognized his importance to the team's long-term plans, signing him to a lucrative contract extension before the 2024 campaign. The injury was a body blow, but Quinn lauded the player for the way he fought through adversity during a turbulent time.

Providing there are no more bumps in the road for the 2021 second-round pick, the Commanders should have Cosmi back sooner rather than later. When that eventually happens, it will be a welcome sight for every Washington fan.