Andrew Wylie - Commanders OT
Andrew Wylie is off the injury report and ready to resume his right tackle responsibilities in Week 15. The Washington Commanders coped well without the veteran against a stout Tennessee Titans defensive front, which increases the pressure for the Super Bowl winner to perform well.
Wylie has yet to give up a sack this season according to Pro Football Focus. However, there are small cracks beginning to show in the player's consistency. This is something fans grew increasingly frustrated by last season. That cannot happen versus the New Orleans Saints' pass rush.
The likes of veteran defensive end Cam Jordan and ex-Washington first-round pick Chase Young will fancy their chances of getting the upper hand on Wylie. If he starts sluggishly and becomes a weak link, the Commanders could put Lucas back on the right edge to compensate.
That would be a blow to Wylie's chances of seeing out his contract in 2025. The former Eastern Michigan standout must also become more impactful on running downs — his 55.0 run-blocking grade ranks 97th out of 133 qualifying offensive tackles around the league.
Johnny Newton - Commanders DT
Daron Payne's late appearance on the injury report was surprising and disappointing in equal measure. The veteran defensive tackle didn't practice on Friday and was listed as questionable with a back issue. His status is worth monitoring leading up to kick-off, but the Commanders' coaching staff must have a sound contingency plan in place.
This brings the spotlight further on Johnny Newton. The second-round pick out of Illinois has flashed moments of promise this season. But if Payne is unable to go, then he'll become Washington's No. 1 defensive tackle for the first time in a professional environment.
The Commanders saw something in Newton. He's a potential game-wrecker when firing on all cylinders, which is exactly what Washington would require if Payne is unable to participate in Week 15.
Newton's got the talent and is growing in stature with every passing game. He'll need to grow up quickly without Payne or Jonathan Allen to lean on, especially in pursuit of limiting Alvin Kamara's running lanes at the Ceasars Superdome.