4 big problems the Commanders must fix entering Week 5 vs. Bears

Commanders must make changes at LB

Ron Rivera was a prolific linebacker during his time in the NFL on the famous 1985 Chicago Bears squad. Jack Del Rio earned one Pro Bowl honor and secured more than 1,000 tackles - as a linebacker.

Therefore, for the Washington Commanders to have constant failings in the position is a complete mystery. Something that must change as a matter of extreme urgency entering Week 5 against the Bears on primetime.

This is a mixture of Del Rio's defensive scheme and the personnel at Washington's disposal. Jamin Davis is doing okay in difficult circumstances, but Cody Barton's production hasn't been up to the required standard and now is the time for alterations.

We've spoken previously about getting Khaleke Hudson involved after his strong preseason. The Commanders also brought Jabril Cox into the fold after final cuts, although he's yet to be activated from the practice squad despite a clear need for second-level reinforcements.

Not having the right formula at linebacker is having an impact elsewhere. The safety duo of Darrick Forrest and Kamren Curl is more focused on assisting closer to the line of scrimmage rather than the backend, which is causing complications in coverage and leading to the opposition making big plays downfield, which we've already touched upon.

Washington needs an injection of life behind their defensive front. Otherwise, it will continue to be a weak link and jeopardize their chances of progress - especially against one of the league's most mobile signal-callers in Justin Fields.