The first injury report has been released, and it includes a surprising name that could be a major blow for the Commanders

We obviously aren't concerned with tight end Zach Ertz getting a rest day, but having a starter on defense listed as limited isn't ideal. We don't know just how limited Armstrong was today, but having a knee injury this close to the season might cause him to miss Sunday if he isn't a full participant by Friday.

If Armstrong is out or just limited on his snap counts on Sunday, expect second-year defensive end Javontae Jean-Baptiste or new veteran Jacob Martin to rotate in, according to the team's depth chart. Von Miller also lines up on that side, and the defense loves to rotate guys like Daron Payne to the outside as well. Even with a backup plan, it would be a big blow to lose Armstrong, who is the best defensive end on the team.

Going from Armstrong, who knows the defense and has had a strong offseason, to a younger player like Jean-Baptiste, or a new addition like Martin, would be a major step down. The Commanders have to get in the backfield on Sunday, and that wouldn't happen nearly as often without Armstrong, and that's including setting the edge in the run game.

Other Notable Names

WR Noah Brown was another player listed as limited, as he's dealt with a knee injury since minicamp, but he's been trending in the right direction over the last week or so, and said he's "ready to go". Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel will be the obvious top targets, but Jaylin Lane can be next up if Brown isn't ready to play yet, or rolls out on a snap count.

Veteran CB Jonathan Jones is another name that you don't want to see, and he's Marshon Lattimore's safety blanket if he gets hurt again. Noah Igbinoghene would have to step in for Jones if they need to rotate any corners in. Remember, the team only has five corners on the active roster.

New York's Injury Concern

I wrote about Andrew Thomas' injury update a few days ago because it hasn't been talked about enough, but it's honestly the biggest storyline to watch heading into the game. Thomas is the clear best offensive lineman for the Giants and holds down Russell Wilson's blind side at left tackle. He was listed as limited at practice today, and I would personally be shocked if he played Sunday, given his timeline on his rehab.

Both teams are dealing with key injuries heading into Sunday's season opener, and we will keep an eye on who plays for the Commanders and Giants as the week goes on.