Chris Rodriguez Jr. is questionable for today’s Christmas Day matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, with the Washington Commanders running back added to the injury report Thursday morning due to illness. The status decision could significantly impact the Commanders’ offensive game plan as they face a struggling Cowboys defense on the holiday slate.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Rodriguez has 96 rushing attempts for 435 yards and 5 touchdowns this season with the Commanders
- The Cowboys (6-8-1) face the Commanders (4-11) at 1 p.m. ET on Thursday, December 25, 2025
- Rodriguez averages 4.53 yards per carry and leads the team in recent rushing production over the last five games
- Final inactives will be announced approximately 90 minutes before kickoff on Christmas Day
The Illness Question Mark for Commanders Running Back Today
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The Washington Commanders received a late morning surprise Thursday when Chris Rodriguez Jr. appeared on the game status report with an unexpected illness. This marks a critical moment for the team’s Week 17 contest against the Dallas Cowboys, as they prepare to host one of the league’s weakest running defenses.
Rodriguez had been listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s practice session. The sudden development puts his availability in doubt just hours before the Christmas Day kickoff at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Commanders coaches will need to assess his health status through pre-game evaluations.
What Rodriguez Brings to the Commanders Offense
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Rodriguez Jr. has emerged as the Commanders’ primary ball carrier during a critical stretch of the season. With 96 rushes for 435 yards and 5 touchdowns, he has anchored the ground game and provided consistency in what has been a disappointing campaign for Washington. He averages 4.53 yards per carry, demonstrating his ability to find running lanes.
Over the past five games, Rodriguez has taken on the largest workload in the backfield. The Commanders have heavily relied on his production to sustain drives and control tempo. His involvement in both rushing and receiving roles makes him a versatile offensive weapon that the team depends on moving forward.
Matchup Analysis: Commanders vs. Cowboys Running Game
| Metric | Commanders | Cowboys |
| Record | 4-11 | 6-8-1 |
| Primary RB | Chris Rodriguez Jr. (96 carries, 435 yards) | Javonte Williams (starter) |
| Game Time | Home at Northwest Stadium | Away matchup |
| Recent Form | Seeking momentum | Lost 3 in a row |
The Dallas Cowboys have struggled significantly in the secondary and run defense this season. Their EPA per play allowed ranks among the worst in football, making them vulnerable to efficient rushing attacks. The Commanders would ideally want to establish the ground game early and control the pace of the contest.
If Rodriguez Jr. cannot play, backup options would need to shoulder the load. The Commanders may need to rely on a committee approach with reduced efficiency, which could impact their ability to control the line of scrimmage and sustain drives against Dallas‘s defense.
Why This Status Matters Before Christmas Game
Christmas Day games create unique circumstances for NFL teams and players. The holiday setting, combined with minimal preparation time for third-string options, makes player availability especially critical. Rodriguez’s potential absence would force the Commanders to adjust play calling and potentially lean more heavily on their passing game.
The quarterback situation adds another layer of complexity, as Josh Johnson was named the starter after Jayden Daniels suffered a hamstring injury. With a backup signal-caller under center, having a reliable running back like Rodriguez Jr. becomes even more essential for offensive balance and success.
Will Chris Rodriguez Jr. Play in Today’s Christmas Showdown?
The decision on Rodriguez’s playing status will likely come down to how he responds to treatment and evaluation throughout the morning and early afternoon. NFL questionable designations mean there remains legitimate uncertainty about participation, though many players in that category do ultimately suit up.
Fans and fantasy players should monitor official status updates closely, as official inactives typically get announced approximately 90 minutes before kickoff. The Commanders organization will likely make the determination based on his health trajectory and what they assess regarding his ability to perform at full capacity in this crucial divisional contest.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.