The Washington Commanders suffered another disappointing defeat on Monday night, falling 23-17 to the undefeated San Francisco 49ers.
The Commanders remained competitive until their final drive, with a chance for quarterback Jayden Daniels to tie or win the game. Multiple 49ers defensive players combined to sack Daniels, securing San Francisco's sixth win of the season.
That dropped Washington to 1-4-1 and to the bottom of the NFC East. Despite Washington's struggles, wide receiver Stefon Diggs believes the Commanders still have an opportunity to turn their season around with 11 games remaining.
"The main thing right now is we get a bye week, recharge, hopefully get some of the guys healthy," Diggs said. "You know, it's still wide open where we are and where the league is. It's kinda interesting. A weird spot right now."
More news: Giants HC John Harbaugh Addresses Starting QB Decision for Texans Game
...
Diggs' comments come amid widespread struggles across the NFC East, including significant injuries to several teams' starting quarterbacks. The New York Giants, who lead the division at 3-2-1, lost starter Jaxson Dart in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams. Dart is out for the season, with the team relying on backups Jameis Winston and JJ McCarthy.
Earlier this week, the Philadelphia Eagles ruled their starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts, out for the remainder of the season after he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and blood clots in both lungs.
Washington also missed a major opportunity to improve its record with a win over the Giants several weeks ago, when Daniels took a costly late-game sack instead of spiking the ball or throwing it away. That game resulted in a tie after overtime rather than a victory.
Had Washington won that game, the Commanders would be 2-4, matching the records of Dallas and Philadelphia to remain firmly in the division race.
With 11 games left, Washington still has time to turn its season around. As Diggs mentioned, the team has a bye week to rest and recover before facing the struggling Eagles on Sunday, Nov. 1.
Washington recently welcomed Daniels back at quarterback after he missed several games with a dislocated left elbow. However, the Commanders suffered another injury setback in Monday night's loss when star wide receiver Terry McLaurin was carted off the field in the first half.
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn wasn't optimistic about McLaurin's status for the season, telling reporters after the game that his injury "could be significant." McLaurin's potential absence could prompt Washington to explore additional wide receiver options as the Commanders look to stay competitive in the struggling NFC East.
More news: Patriots DT Gives Blunt Reaction to Mike Vrabel’s Trash Talk After Jets Win
For more about the Washington Commanders and the NFL, head over to Newsweek Sports.