The Washington Commanders enter Week 4 on the road against the Atlanta Falcons with a 2-1 record, but they will do so without several key contributors. The team announced that quarterback Jayden Daniels, wide receiver Terry McLaurin, safety Percy Butler, defensive end Preston Smith, guard Brandon Coleman, wide receiver Noah Brown, and tight end John Bates will be inactive for the matchup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The list features both established stars and valuable depth players, forcing the Commanders to make adjustments on both sides of the ball. Head Coach Dan Quinn has emphasized resilience and adaptability since training camp, and today’s inactive group will test that philosophy.
Daniels and McLaurin Headlines the List
Daniels, Washington’s dynamic second-year quarterback, will sit out Week 4 as he continues to progress from a Week 2 injury sustained against the Green Bay Packers. Daniels’ absence allows veteran Marcus Mariota to remain the starter and continue leading the offense against his former team. While fans are eager to see the return of Daniels electrifying play, the Commanders will rely on Mariota’s experience and composure in a challenging road environment.
Perhaps the biggest blow is the absence of McLaurin, Washington’s most reliable playmaker at wide receiver. McLaurin’s ability to stretch the field and create mismatches has long been a cornerstone of the Commanders’ offense. Without him, Washington will lean on Deebo Samuel Sr, rookie Jaylin Lane, and depth pieces like Chris Moore to maintain offensive rhythm. The passing game must adjust quickly to fill the production gap left by McLaurin.
Depth Tested on Defense and Offensive Line
The defense also takes a hit with Butler and the newly acquired Smith unavailable. Butler provides speed and range in the secondary, while Smith is a proven presence on the defensive line who excels in stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Their absence places more responsibility on younger defenders and rotational players to step up against Atlanta’s offensive weapons.
On offense, Brandon Coleman’s surprising inactivity removes a versatile interior lineman who has been carving out a role. His absence could impact protection and run blocking, making cohesion along the offensive line even more important. Tight end Bates and wide receiver Brown also miss out, trimming the rotation for both positions. This creates opportunities for other players to showcase their skills in expanded roles.
Quinn and his staff have consistently emphasized next man up, and Week 4 provides a chance for role players to prove themselves in meaningful snaps. For Washington, the game is not just about extending a winning streak over Atlanta but also about demonstrating the depth and adaptability of the roster.