Commanders Place Eight Year Veteran on Injured Reserve “… to Get Him Right”

The Washington Commanders made a tough but necessary decision this week, placing veteran wide receiver Noah Brown on the Injured Reserve List after his groin injury failed to respond during practice. Head coach Dan Quinn addressed the move during his Wednesday press conference, explaining that while Brown’s competitive spirit made the decision difficult, the team’s top priority is ensuring his long-term health.

“Last week we worked Noah Brown back into practice and unfortunately his groin didn’t respond,” Quinn said. “Given that, we’ll place him on IR and the aim is to get Noah fully right. He’s such a tough competitor, but it’s the right call right now to get him into that spot.”

Brown, who joined the Commanders last offseason and quickly became a trusted target in the passing game, will now be sidelined for at least four more weeks. The move comes as Washington continues to battle injuries at wide receiver, with Terry McLaurin also managing his own recovery timeline.

Quinn: “We’re Going to Get Him Right”

When asked if Brown’s groin issue was a setback, Quinn clarified that while it hasn’t healed as hoped, the team remains optimistic about his recovery timeline. “I would say it was a setback,” Quinn explained. “It just hasn’t responded quite the way it needs to. Hindsight’s 20/20, and I think the main thing is, we’re going to get him right. That’s the ultimate goal.”

The Commanders’ medical staff will now focus on strengthening and stabilizing Brown’s groin before he returns to football activities. Quinn confirmed that surgery is not expected and that recovery will hinge on rest, rehabilitation, and proper conditioning.

“More time and just, we’re going to push it and make sure the recovery’s right, the strength is right,” Quinn said. “We’ll go through all of it to make sure he’s really ready.”

Despite the setback, Quinn’s confidence in Brown’s work ethic and mental toughness never wavered. “He’s one of these competitors that takes it hard,” Quinn added. “He cares so much, he loves it. Moments like now are hard because of who the competitor is, but the good news is that we can put the plan in place to absolutely nail it and get him back.”

Commanders Look to Next Man Up

Brown’s absence will undoubtedly leave a void in Washington’s offense, as his physical presence and reliable hands have helped steady quarterback Jayden Daniels in key moments. However, Quinn emphasized the team’s confidence in its depth and preparation.

“We knew we wanted Noah back for sure,” Quinn said when reflecting on re-signing Brown despite his prior injuries. “That was evident coming into it. I love what he brings to us outside. When a guy gets banged up, it’s always about who’s next in line, and we feel good about the group we have.”

The Commanders recently elevated Ja’Corey Brooks and Tay Martin from the practice squad, both of whom will now see expanded roles in the coming weeks. Their ability to step up will be crucial as the team continues its push through a challenging stretch of the schedule.

While the Commanders will miss Brown’s leadership and toughness, Quinn’s clear focus on recovery over risk signals a smart, long-term approach. “We’re bummed that he’s out,” Quinn concluded, “but we’re looking forward to getting him back.”

As Washington continues its climb in the NFC standings, the decision to prioritize Brown’s full recovery could pay dividends later in the season, especially when every play and every catch will matter most.

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