The Washington Commanders have placed newly signed defensive end Drake Jackson on injured reserve, just two days after bringing him onto the team. This decision was made on Thursday, as the team indicated its intention to “stash and save” the 24-year-old, who is recovering from a significant knee injury. Jackson will be sidelined for a minimum of four games, with the possibility of returning during Washington’s Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, Spain.
Jackson’s injury history is notable. He suffered a torn patellar tendon during Week 8 of the 2023 season, which led to him missing the entire 2024 season. Subsequently, he was waived by the San Francisco 49ers in May 2024 after failing a physical examination. Before his injury, Jackson had shown promise on the field, recording 21 tackles, six sacks, nine quarterback hits, nine passes defensed, and one interception over the course of 23 games with the 49ers.
The Commanders’ move to place Jackson on injured reserve emphasizes their strategy of managing player health while also considering future potential. By designating him to IR, the team gains additional time for Jackson to recover fully from his knee injury without losing him to another team.
Jackson was originally a second-round pick and has demonstrated significant talent, which makes his recovery a focal point for the Commanders. His performance in practice and rehabilitation will be closely monitored as the team evaluates its depth at defensive end. The Commanders have also expressed optimism about Jackson’s long-term potential, indicating that they believe he can make a significant impact once he returns to full fitness.
As the NFL season progresses, the Commanders will need to navigate the challenges posed by Jackson’s absence. The team’s defensive line will continue to adapt, and the coaching staff will likely rely on other players to step up in the interim. Jackson’s early return could be vital for Washington’s defensive strategy, particularly in their critical upcoming games.
The team is expected to provide updates on Jackson’s recovery and timeline as they approach Week 11. For now, the focus remains on ensuring that he returns to play at full strength, ready to contribute to the Commanders’ efforts in the remainder of the season.