Chris Paul - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders made some hefty investments in their offensive line this offseason. This centered mainly on the tackle positions, with the trade for Laremy Tunsil and taking Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round gaining significant hype.
That left things uncertain on the interior, especially without the services of stud right guard Sam Cosmi. It was solid, if not spectacular, in Week 1, but they were exposed in no uncertain terms against the Green Bay Packers. That led the coaching staff to drastic action.
Andrew Wylie came in to replace Nick Allegretti on the right-hand side. Brandon Coleman, a third-round pick last year, was made a healthy scratch in favor of Chris Paul for Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders. This raised a few eyebrows, but the seventh-round fringe player maximized his opportunity to cement his importance to the squad.
Paul was outstanding in all phases. His pass protection was first-class, and his run blocking was dominant from the first whistle. It was a tone-setting showcase of his physical attributes, and the Commanders looked a lot more efficient as a result.
The former Tulsa star currently leads all guards league-wide with an 86.0 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. His 82.9 run blocking grade also leads the NFL, so the left guard spot is probably his until further notice.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. - Commanders DE
Much was made about the Commanders' lack of pass-rushing options heading into the season. Fans didn't think general manager Adam Peters did enough to strengthen the ranks, which became a glaring flaw during the NFC Championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles last season.
Losing defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. to a torn quad wasn't exactly ideal. Fortunately for the Commanders, they have an emerging edge rusher who is well on track for a breakout campaign, despite most analysts expecting the opposite.
Dorance Armstrong Jr. has been outstanding to start the campaign, which was needed after an indifferent first year in Washington. He currently ranks seventh in sacks with three. He is third in run stops with 10. The former Kansas prospect is 12th in total pressures (14), and his grades from Pro Football Focus reflect these improved performance levels.
Armstrong's pass-rush grade of 70.5 is impressive. His 74.9 run defense grade places him 12th out of 155 qualifying edges around the league. This comes across on tape, and it's making everyone on the defensive line better.
The Commanders signed Preston Smith to fill the void left by Wise. Regardless of whether he can contribute or not, Armstrong has already proven his worth as the alpha dog.