Wendell Smallwood

Smallwood's return comes at a good time with Antonio Gibson (turf toe) questionable for Sunday night's game. Smallwood, who was expected to play the J.D. McKissic role before going on the Week 15 COVID list, will be part of a committee with Jaret Patterson and Jonathan Williams if Gibson sits.

Washington's game has been pushed back to Tuesday. And while Smallwood will definitely miss the game, it's possible that the additional time will allow J.D. McKissic (concussion) to play, rendering Smallwood's status a moot point. Smallwood's status is in doubt for Week 16's game against Dallas as well. If McKissic is not active for Week 15 against the Eagles, Antonio Gibson will see a small bump in value.

With J.D. McKissic sidelined, Smallwood is expected to see pass-game reps over Jaret Patterson. Antonio Gibson should still run the majority of routes in this backfield and could push for an 80% snap share against the Raiders. Gibson saw a season-high usage as a pass catcher with McKissic going down last week, catching all seven of his targets for 35 yards in a win over Seattle.

Rivera indicated that Smallwood would have the McKissic role, "to a degree." Smallwood is a journeyman, who is unlikely to be able to work into a large role quickly, but he does create risk of a three-man backfield this week. Still, Antonio Gibson has been a capable receiver this year and should be expected to run a majority of routes against the Raiders. Gibson has upside for an 80%+ snap share in a good matchup.