Commanders TE Cole Turner could miss more time than expected with hamstring injury

Washington Commanders rookie tight end Cole Turner continues to nurse a hamstring injury he suffered nearly two weeks ago in training camp and forced him to miss Saturday’s preseason opener. Apparently, Turner could be out even longer according to the update Commanders head coach Ron Rivera provided on Monday.

After Turner worked out on the side with trainers, Rivera said the fifth-round pick could miss “another week or two,” according to John Keim of ESPN.

“I feel I’m good to go, but they want to take it slow and be cautious,” Turner said. “I’m all for that.”

Turner suffered the injury on Aug. 5 running a route during individual drills. He aggravated the injury later during team drills after being hit by fellow rookie, safety Percy Butler.

The Commanders have been depleted at the tight end position throughout training camp. On Saturday, Washington was without its top-four tight ends for their preseason game against the Carolina Panthers.

Logan Thomas remains on the PUP list. He is working his way back from a torn ACL that he suffered in December during last season. John Bates has a calf injury. Meanwhile, Sammis Reyes is also dealing with a hamstring injury.

Undrafted rookies Armani Rogers and Curtis Hodges suited up as the top two tight ends. Rogers, who was a backup quarterback in college at Ohio University, had three catches for 12 yards. Hodges had three catches for 11 yards.

Both have been making the most of their opportunities. But it’s come at the expense of Turner and the other tight ends who were expected to be major parts of the offense.

With Thomas’ return uncertain, Turner has expectations to slot in Thomas’ place as the lead tight end in the passing game. Yet, he faces another week or two recovering from his injury, keeping him from valuable reps.