Chris Rodriguez Jr Clears Groin Injury to Face Eagles, but Here’s What Coaches Are Really Worried About

Chris Rodriguez Jr has been cleared to play in Week 16 after dealing with a groin injury that sidelined him last week against the Giants. The Commanders running back practiced in full all week and is ready to return against Philadelphia in a crucial divisional contest. His return comes at a critical moment as Washington looks to stay competitive against the NFC East-leading Eagles.

Rodriguez’s Journey Back From Injury

The third-year running back missed last Sunday’s contest against the Giants after being unable to test his groin injury in pregame warmups. Initial concern surrounded whether Rodriguez Jr. would be available for Week 16, but he responded exceptionally well to treatment throughout the week.

According to Commanders coach Dan Quinn, Rodriguez missed last week but is expected back now. The running back did not participate Wednesday initially but returned to practice in limited capacity Thursday and had full participation Friday, clearing the way for his return.

Impact on the Offense Without Rodriguez

In Rodriguez Jr.’s absence last week, Jacory Croskey-Merritt stepped into the starting role and delivered an impressive 96-yard rushing performance. However, establishing a reliable ground attack remains critical for the offense as Washington faces an aggressive Eagles defense.

The Commanders face the Eagles’ elite defensive line, which boasts a 63% pass rush win rate. Washington’s offensive line sits at 37% pass rush win rate, making a strong rushing attack essential to controlling the line of scrimmage and dictating pace.

Rodriguez Jr.’s Consistent Performance This Season

In 11 games this season, Rodriguez Jr. has emerged as the primary running back after the Commanders’ Week 9 clash against Seattle. His breakout campaign showcases a 6th-round pick from 2023 who has developed into a valuable asset for the offense.

Statistical Category	2025 Performance
Rushing Carries	81
Rushing Yards	372
Yards Per Carry	4.6
Rushing Touchdowns	4

Divisional Stakes Ahead

The matchup between Washington and Philadelphia carries significant playoff implications. The Eagles (9-5) can clinch the NFC East division title with a victory at Northwest Stadium. Meanwhile, the Commanders (4-10) look to play spoiler in this crucial divisional battle.

Philadelphia would earn back-to-back NFC East titles for the first time since 2004 with a win. The Eagles face a Commanders defense ranked 31st in total defense in 2025, allowing 382.6 total yards per game. This matchup offers Washington an opportunity to compete against an elite offense with their ground game fully healthy again.

What’s Next for Rodriguez Jr. and the Commanders?

With Rodriguez Jr. returning to action, the Commanders regain a consistent offensive weapon heading into their crucial stretch. The running back has proven he can handle a heavy workload when healthy, leading the team in rushing attempts in his last three available games before the injury.

Can Rodriguez Jr. help the Commanders pull off a divisional upset and slow the Eagles’ march toward the playoff picture? Saturday’s matchup will give Washington its first real test with a fully-healthy backfield, and Rodriguez Jr.’s return makes the Commanders a more formidable opponent than they appeared last week against New York.

“Rodriguez was sidelined by a groin injury last week, but it’s no longer a serious issue and he is set to play through it in this week’s game.”

— FantasyPros, NFL Injury Report

Sources

• USA Today Commanders Wire – Injury status and week-to-week updates for Rodriguez Jr.
• NFL.com – Official stats, injury reports, and game information
• ESPN – Draft status, career statistics, and game log data