Thanks for signing up. I’m Philip Hughes, and I cover the Washington Commanders for Commanders On SI. Each week, I’ll send you selected stories, my take on the biggest developments and what I’m watching next.

Hughes’ View

The Commanders are getting Jayden Daniels, Sam Cosmi and Rachaad White back against the Giants. That’s a big boost for Washington’s offense, but Stefon Diggs is out and Terry McLaurin remains questionable.

The receiver situation makes Antonio Williams one of the players I’m watching closely. His snap share climbed from 37% in the opener to 69% against Indianapolis. Washington was already asking more from him. With Daniels returning and Diggs unavailable, the rookie could have a larger role in the passing game.

On defense, forcing Jameis Winston into mistakes has to come with disciplined coverage. Washington needs to keep getting after him without losing its assignments behind the rush. He showed against Arizona that turnovers don’t keep him from putting points on the board.

Five reads before the Giants game

​Final injury report: Six out, McLaurin questionable​

Diggs is among six players ruled out, and Washington will also be missing three safeties. Here’s the full rundown of who’s out, who’s questionable and who’s returning.

​Why Antonio Williams could have a bigger role​

His workload has been increasing. I looked at what Daniels’ return and the receiver injuries could mean for Williams, including why his role can extend beyond the slot.

​The challenge of defending Jameis Winston​

Winston threw two interceptions against Arizona and still finished with three touchdown passes. The scouting report looks at how Washington can pressure him while accounting for Isaiah Likely and New York’s downfield threats.

​Mailbag: Daniels’ return and the second-half defense​

Should Washington cut back on Daniels’ designed runs? And what can Daronte Jones change to fix the defense’s struggles after halftime? This week’s mailbag tackles both questions.

​Sonny Styles vs. Arvell Reese​

Two former Ohio State teammates, two No. 52 jerseys and two early Defensive Rookie of the Year cases. Here’s how their coverage, tackling and overall production compare before their first NFL meeting.

What I’m watching Sunday

McLaurin’s availability is the first checkpoint. Once the game starts, I’ll be watching what Washington gets from Williams and whether the defense can hold up after halftime.

Have a question for a future mailbag? Send it to hailbng+si@gmail.com.

Philip Hughes
Commanders On SI