Washington Football Team’s “next man up” philosophy evident in 2020

It’s no Hogs, but the offensive line has been efficient

After losing a future Hall of Famer in Trent Williams and other key pieces that stepped up like Ereck Flowers, it would have been understandable for Washington’s offensive line to see a major dropoff. Luckily, that hasn’t been the case, as linemen have stepped up when their number has been called upon.

Geron Christian manned the left tackle position until he injured his knee, and continued to go through growing pains. He allowed six sacks in six games, which isn’t a positive, but only had one penalty called on him. Cornelius Lucas and David Sharpe have also both started at left tackle and have given up zero sacks between them. Lucas has also been seen making blocks way down the field on screens, which is a welcome sight.

Also on the left side of the line, Wes Schweitzer took over for Wes Martin and has done a good job of holding down that LG spot. He has improved throughout the season and could be the team’s mid-to-long-term answer at LG.

Schweitzer has allowed four sacks so far this season, but has no penalties. The biggest value he has provided has been in the running game where he has opened up lanes for the RBs to get through and provided support down the field on longer runs.

Signed to a very affordable three-year, $13.5 million contract, Schweitzer has provided an above-cost valuation thus far this season.

In spite of injuries and constant shifting across the line to find the best combination, the linemen have performed when called upon.

As Chase Young said at his press conference, competitive excellence is being ready when your number is called. It looks like the Washington Football Team is full of players that have been stepping up to meet that standard.