3 simple fixes for the Commanders’ OL after nightmarish Week 3

A longtime strength of the Washington Commanders, the offensive line has suddenly become a glaring weakness in Ashburn. After a harrowing start vs Detroit in Week 2, the group was put through the wringer against the Eagles in Week 3.

While Carson Wentz was at fault for at least four of the nine sacks, the quarterback was under constant duress and had zero time to go through his progressions. Every completion in the first half was underneath before the Eagles played soft coverage coming out of halftime with a 24-0 lead on on the scoreboard.

While John Matsko has the know-how to get the unit back in-sync, it’s worth pondering if he has the personnel at his disposal to make it happen. With the Cowboys’ vaunted pass rush on deck for Washington, here are three simple fixes we’d consider after the group was manhandled in the loss to the Eagles.

3 simple fixes for Commanders OL after nightmare Week 3

3. Replace Wes Schweitzer with Nick Martin

Schweitzer has been a more-than-serviceable backup for Washington for three seasons running. With Brandon Scherff missing 14 games over his final three years, Schweitzer always filled in at right guard in a pinch for the Pro Bowler.

No matter which side of the line, Schweitzer has done admirable work as the Commanders’ top swing guard. On Sunday, Schweitzer filled in at center for the injured Chase Roullier and was an absolute turnstile. On top of surrendering five pressures, Schweitzer’s snap delivery made life more difficult for his quarterback.

Most of Schweitzer’s snaps were low. The NFL is game of fine margins and that extra millisecond Wentz had to bend down to grab the pigskin proved costly with the Eagles’ manufacturing pressure on every one of his dropbacks.

The Commanders signed Nick Martin following Roullier’s injury. If the veteran is up to speed for Week 4, he needs to replace Schweitzer at center.