More bad news hit the Washington Football Team Friday when Landon Collins was placed on injured reserve. With three games remaining in the regular season, that means Collins is done for the season.
If Washington can somehow find a way to make the playoffs, Collins would be eligible to return if he’s healthy enough. Collins injured his foot in the Week 15 loss to Philadelphia.
This is disappointing for Washington and Collins. Back in the summer, there was a lot of hype surrounding Collins and his return. After the first several games, that hype seemed misplaced as Collins repeatedly struggled in coverage, often allowing big plays.
However, once defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio adjusted Collins’ role — with Collins’ blessing (just don’t call him a linebacker) — he looked like a different player.
It’s no coincidence Washington’s defense turned things around with Collins playing closer to the line of scrimmage. He impacted the run game, going from sideline to sideline, and was solid in coverage when he wasn’t expected to be a deep safety.
Collins went from a certain cut in the offseason to an integral part of Washington’s plans moving forward. Sure, Washington still may release Collins, but it makes no sense. The WFT has plenty of cap room and can absorb Collins’ cap number. In his current role, Collins is a difference-maker.
Collins has been outstanding from the Week 7 game vs. Green Bay to now. In his last two games before the injury, Collins had two sacks and two interceptions.