The Washington Commanders are gearing up for their first NFC Championship appearance since their Super Bowl victory in 1991, following a crucial win over the Detroit Lions on Saturday, 18th January. However, the team will face the Philadelphia Eagles in the upcoming NFC title game without one of their key players, right guard Sam Cosmi, who has been sidelined due to a torn ACL.
Sam Cosmi's injury: A blow to the Commanders' offensive line
On Sunday, 19th January, the Commanders announced that Cosmi, a fourth-year National Football League (NFL) veteran, had suffered a torn ACL during the second quarter of the game against Detroit. The injury occurred while Cosmi was blocking for running back Brian Robinson on a touchdown run. Detroit’s defensive lineman Za'Darius Smith unintentionally rolled into the back of Cosmi’s right leg, causing his knee to buckle as he fell backwards.
After the injury, Cosmi limped off the field with assistance from the training staff, ending his night and effectively concluding his season. His absence will be a significant challenge for the Commanders as they prepare for the NFC Championship game against the Eagles next week.
Veteran backup Trent Scott to step in
In Cosmi’s absence, veteran backup Trent Scott stepped in to replace him against the Lions and is expected to start at right guard in the crucial playoff matchup with the Eagles. Scott brings a wealth of experience to the table, having made 23 starts and played 88 games over seven NFL seasons with the Chargers, Panthers, Steelers, and Commanders.
While Scott is capable, Cosmi’s loss is still a blow to Washington’s offensive line, as he has developed into one of the team's best players and a key leader since being drafted in the second round in 2021. Cosmi played 100% of the Commanders' offensive snaps over the past two seasons and shifted from right tackle to right guard in 2023.
Cosmi’s resilience and commitment to the team
Following the announcement of his injury, Cosmi took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message with his fans and teammates. "Knocked down, but never knocked out," Cosmi wrote. "What a dream this season has been for me. To see the DMV full of pride after years of waiting has brought me so much joy."
He expressed his gratitude for being part of the team, stating, "Getting to play alongside my brothers every day, fighting for something bigger than myself is something I’m incredibly grateful for. I am heartbroken my season got cut short, but I know our journey isn’t done yet. Go win it all boys."
Cosmi also offered words of encouragement to Commanders fans, saying, "Commanders nation, I’ll see you next season. Trials to testimonies. #HTTC."
With Cosmi sidelined, the Commanders are now relying on Scott to hold down the fort during the NFC Championship, a game that will be pivotal in Washington’s quest for a Super Bowl berth. As the team gears up for a high-stakes showdown against the Eagles, they will certainly feel the absence of one of their most dependable players on the offensive line.