By Adam Aniba
Washington's offensive line has been one of the worst in the league this season, but similar to last year, injuries have led to a lack of cohesion. For the second consecutive season, starting center Chase Roullier has been lost for the season due to a leg injury, leading to Ron Rivera starting his third center in six weeks.
The guard position has also been a game of musical chairs for most of the season, with offseason pickup Trai Turner being benched after less than a dozen snaps vs Dallas (Week 4). Turner hasn't been the same since dealing with an offseason quad injury and was replaced by Saahdiq Charles.
Rivera spoke about pulling Turner, during the Dallas post game presser (reported by WAPO Nicki Jhabval)
“I sat Trai down today, and we talked about the plan for him to get him going in the right direction so that when he’s healthy, ready to roll, he can help us."
In addition, Wes Schweitzer has bounced from guard to center and has also has missed time with a concussion.
During the same game against the Cowboys, starting RT Sam Cosmi suffered a thumb injury, but played through it. He underwent surgery days later and is currently working his way back and learning to play with a cast. Cosmi was replaced by swing tackle Cornelius Lucas, who has been more than serviceable.
Cosmi wasn't at his best prior to his injury. The former Longhorns lineman allowed 9 pressures and 4 sacks during his last two games. The question was posed during a recent team presser, if Cosmi could be worked in at guard.
Although it was believed Cosmi could lockdown the starting right tackle spot for years to come, trying him at right guard could lead to a more lucrative career. Some have mentioned his height (6'7") as being a potential detriment for a possible move inside. The fact is, Cosmi has displayed the athletic ability to make the transition, if only temporary until his cast is removed.
Lucas could be even better as the starting RT with Cosmi next to him, giving him support against the run/pass. The move to guard would avoid exposing the second year player to pass rushers, who will expose his handicap on the outside. Playing with a cast and facing premier NFL pass rushers seems like a recipe for disaster on the edge.
It might not be the solution to Washington's pass protection issues, but they can't afford to drop further in the standings. Similar to previous games, Rivera could try rotating Cosmi in at guard to see how he fares.
Although Cosmi was limited all week and is listed as questionable, it's unlikely they'll attempt the transition this week.
Another week off and more practice getting use to the cast would be ideal. Nevertheless, Cosmi should be active vs the Packers and could play in an emergency situation.
Cosmi could also see snaps depending on how the game flows for the offense. Getting their best players out on the field and getting a win this week is imperative for their season, maybe it's time to see if Cosmi can be an even better NFL prospect at guard.
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