Commanders' plan after Austin Ekeler injury blow is staring them in the face

The result was disappointing. But the injury issues that emerged from the Washington Commanders' primetime clash with the Green Bay Packers come with much graver ramifications attached.

Head coach Dan Quinn was visibly dejected after the game, and not because his squad suffered their first defeat of the campaign. Several established veterans were unable to finish the contest. For two of them, the complications were season-ending.

Defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. needs quad surgery that brings an abrupt halt to his time in Washington. If that wasn't enough, running back Austin Ekeler sustained a torn Achilles tendon, which is another devastating blow.

Commanders have an obvious contingency plan in place after Austin Ekeler's injury

Ekeler was expected to be the lead back until Washington's young guns found their feet. They will now have to grow up much sooner than anticipated, which all starts with seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt.

According to Ian Rapoport from the NFL Network, the Commanders are expected to move forward with Croskey-Merritt as their No. 1 option. The No. 245 overall pick was used sparingly versus the Packers to the bemusement of fans. Now, the coaching staff has no option other than to throw him into the fire with increased responsibilities.

Jeremy McNichols brings veteran stability and special-teams presence. Ekeler's injury should also mean Chris Rodriguez Jr. starts to get more involved.

Rodriguez flashed tremendous promise over the summer to make the 53-man roster. The Kentucky product's been inactive over the first two games, but that should change now that Ekeler is on the shelf.

The player's improved performances and production when his number is called leave reasons for optimism. But if the Commanders want another experienced veteran for rotational purposes, they could do far worse than look in Gus Edwards' direction.

Edwards was released by the Los Angeles Chargers earlier this year and is still seeking an opportunity elsewhere. It wouldn't cost the Commanders much to find out if he's got anything left to give. They could also stash him on the practice squad to enhance his sharpness thanks to the presence of Croskey-Merritt, McNichols, and Rodriguez.

Losing Ekeler is a major setback. This is the problem with short weeks, especially so early into the season. While they are great for the media and the NFL's value, they increase the risk of injuries occurring. The Commanders felt that in the worst way possible on Thursday Night Football, and that's without considering the reported MRI quarterback Jayden Daniels needed on his knee.

The Commanders are fortunate to have a contingency plan staring them in the face. And if they can get someone like Edwards or another dependable veteran, the better their chances will be.