Washington Commanders defensive end
Deatrich Wise Jr. suffered a torn left quadriceps and will miss the remainder of the season, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Wise was hurt in Thursday's 27-18 loss to Green Bay and would need season-ending surgery.
It's a blow to Washington's defense, as the 6-foot-5, 280-pound Wise added strength and size. The Commanders signed him to a one-year deal in the offseason to help bolster a defense that ranked 30th against the run last season.
Washington is still awaiting final word on the severity of running back
Austin Ekeler's injury. He left the game with what the team fears is a torn Achilles.
Two other starters, receiver
Noah Brown and tight end
John Bates both suffered groin injuries and left the game as well. It's uncertain the severity for both.
Wise was hurt with 7 minutes, 34 seconds left in the second quarter, and it was immediately clear the injury was serious. Teammates first took a knee on the field and eventually nearly the entire contingent on their sideline gathered around him. He was carted off the field.
Wise, 31, posted a message on Instagram in which he expressed gratitude for the prayers and support.
His message read, "This was an unfortunate experience, but when you give so much to the game and do everything you can to improve for yourself and for your teams success it can feel like there's a lot to play for. When you stop, it can feel like everything around you stops too."
He also referenced his faith and said "on the bright side," he'll get to spend more time with his family.
The Commanders liked their depth along the defensive front. But Wise provided needed muscle and was considered a strong leader.
They also have
Dorance Armstrong and
Javontae Jean-Baptiste as well as
Von Miller, whom they signed to primarily rush the passer. Defensive end
Jalyn Holmes is on their practice squad. They released veteran end
Clelin Ferrell in August.
Wise spent his first eight seasons in New England.
