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Washington Football Team rookie RB Antonio Gibson has been improving every week, and had his breakout game on Thanksgiving in a 41-16 win over the Dallas Cowboys. He had 3 TDs and 136 total yards in a performance that made the world take notice.
He carried that momentum into Monday's rescheduled game against the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers. Unfortunately for Gibson, his night ended after his second carry. He left the field with an apparent foot injury, and was seen on the sidelines getting his big toe wrapped up. He rejoined his teammates on the bench, but was noticeably limping as he moved around.
The speculation about the injury immediately started, with most people assuming he had turf toe and would miss some time. Ian Rapoport reports that Gibson has indeed been diagnosed with a painful case of turf toe. He said Gibson could miss Sunday's away game against the San Francisco 49ers, but he will be evaluated throughout the week.
Source: Washington starting RB Antonio Gibson was diagnosed with a painful case of turf toe, which may knock him out for Sunday vs. the #49ers. His status is in doubt, but he’ll be evaluated as the week goes on.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 9, 2020
Turf toe can be a lingering injury, especially for running backs who are constantly planting to make cuts. Gibson could miss multiple weeks which will force Washington to make a roster decision quickly. The only other running backs on the 53-man roster right now are J.D. McKissic and Peyton Barber. The team tried to bring Bryce Love back from IR, but his knee wasn't ready and he will remain there for the rest of the season.
The team has one RB on the practice squad, Javon Leake, who was activated from the Reserve COVID-19 list a week ago. He is likely their only option for a 3rd RB on Sunday due to COVID-19 protocols that require 6 days for players to be signed to a new team.