The 31-0 score was bad, but the scene on the sideline was worse. The Washington Commanders fear they just lost a team leader for good.

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn calls out his team after a blowout 31-0 loss to the Vikings, saying Washington took "three steps back."

The Commanders are currently in the No. 6 position in the 2026 NFL draft order. Washington gained ground on the No. 1 overall pick, as the Tennessee Titans defeated the Cleveland Browns. With its win, Tennessee fell from No. 1 down to No. 3. Meanwhile, the New York Giants moved up to No. 1, with the Las Vegas Raiders right behind at No. 2.

The Commanders were eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday, but that was far from the worst part of their day.

Zach Ertz suffered a serious knee injury late in the Commanders’ loss to the Vikings. He was carted off the field and received emotional support from teammates and coach Dan Quinn as concerns of a torn ACL emerged.

The 31-0 win over the Commanders will only do so much for the curriculum vitae of the 5-8 Vikings, but it provided a dose of relief for the team and its weary fanbase.

The Commanders then feebly went three and out, punted and the Vikings proceeded to maintain possession of the ball for 6:00, compiling a 15 play 44 yard drive, culminating in Joseph's 28-yard field goal, which only left the Commanders with :12 on the clock.

The NFL season continues in Week 14 when the Minnesota Vikings host the Washington Commanders on Sunday. Start time, how to watch, stream and NFL TV schedule.