Commanders place rookie Phidarian Mathis on injured reserve

The Washington Commanders placed rookie defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis on injured reserve and signed former Michigan defensive linemen Donovan Jeter.

Mathis suffered a torn meniscus in Sunday’s 28-22 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. From the moment Mathis got carted off the field, it was clear the injury was severe.

The Commanders drafted Mathis in the second round this year out of Alabama. He slotted in the DT rotation behind his fellow Crimson Tide alum, Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne.

With Mathis out, the Commanders set out to find a replacement. Although prominent veteran options were available, head coach Ron Rivera wanted a “young” guy.

Jeter stands at 6-foot-3 and 325 pounds. He emerged as a defensive starter as a senior in 2020 after three seasons primarily on special teams. Last season, he started 12 games for the Wolverines, who went on to win the Big Ten Conference and appear in the College Football Playoff.

Jeter had 24 tackles, including two for losses. He also had two passes defended.

After not having his name called during the draft, Jeter signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, the Steelers released Mathis during the final roster cuts.