The Washington Commanders are facing a major hurdle as they prepare for their Week 10 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. With kicker Austin Seibert ruled out due to a hip injury and long snapper Tyler Ott questionable with an illness, the team’s special teams unit is in a state of flux.
Seibert’s Absence Leaves Commanders Scrambling
Austin Seibert, who has been a reliable presence for the Commanders this season, was downgraded to out on Saturday after being limited in practice on Thursday and Friday. The 25-year-old has connected on 25 of his 27 field goal attempts and all 22 extra points this year, providing much-needed stability for Washington’s kicking game.
With Seibert sidelined, the Commanders quickly moved to sign veteran kicker Zane Gonzalez as insurance. Gonzalez, who last played in the NFL in 2021, has a track record of success, having made 20 of 22 field goals for the Carolina Panthers three seasons ago.
Ott’s Status Adds to Uncertainty
Compounding the Commanders’ special teams woes is the uncertain status of long snapper Tyler Ott. The 30-year-old was a late addition to the injury report on Saturday, listed as questionable due to an illness. If Ott is unable to play, Washington will turn to guard Nick Allegretti as their emergency long snapper.
It’s a tough situation, but we have to adapt and overcome. We have faith in Zane and Nick to step up if needed.
– Commanders special teams coach Nate Kaczor
Depth Tested as Key Players Sidelined
The kicking issues are just the latest challenge for the Commanders, who will also be without running back Brian Robinson and newly-acquired cornerback Marshon Lattimore due to hamstring injuries. The absence of these key players will test Washington’s depth as they look to maintain their position in the NFC East.
- Austin Seibert: Out (Hip)
- Tyler Ott: Questionable (Illness)
- Brian Robinson: Out (Hamstring)
- Marshon Lattimore: Out (Hamstring)
Gonzalez Brings Experience, Stability
While the sudden change at kicker is far from ideal, the Commanders are hopeful that Zane Gonzalez can provide a steady presence in Seibert’s absence. The 27-year-old has appeared in 63 NFL games, connecting on 82.2% of his field goal attempts and 95.6% of his extra points.
Gonzalez’s experience and proven track record should give the Commanders confidence as they navigate this unexpected obstacle. With a crucial divisional matchup against the Steelers on the horizon, having a reliable kicker could make all the difference.
Zane is a true professional. We know he’ll be ready to go if his number is called.
– Commanders head coach Ron Rivera
Commanders Seek to Overcome Adversity
As the Washington Commanders prepare for their Week 10 battle with the Pittsburgh Steelers, they find themselves facing unexpected challenges in the kicking game. With Austin Seibert ruled out and Tyler Ott’s status in question, the team will need to rely on their depth and the experience of newcomer Zane Gonzalez to weather the storm.
Despite the setbacks, the Commanders remain focused on the task at hand. A victory over the Steelers would keep them firmly in the NFC East race and prove their resilience in the face of adversity.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on the Commanders’ special teams unit, as they look to overcome their kicking woes and secure a crucial win in front of their home crowd.
