4 Commanders players who could be benched with poor Week 11 performance
By Dean Jones
Commanders could bench Chris Paul
When the Washington Commanders switched things up on the offensive line, it brought some encouraging production right out of the gate. Things looked a lot more stable - especially on the interior - which allowed quarterback Sam Howell an increased level of comfort in the pocket to move into the NFL's passing yards leader along the way.
This proved to be fleeting. Howell isn't taking as many sacks, but this might have something to do with Eric Bieniemy's schematic alterations rather than any consistent protection in recent weeks.
Chris Paul was a healthy scratch for long periods before getting his chance. Saahdiq Charles going down through injury saw the former seventh-round selection installed as the starting left guard, but it's been largely underwhelming aside from one good performance.
Paul's turned out in 211 snaps so far this season, giving up one sack and conceding one penalty. But his suspect pass protection and falling to create the necessary holes in the running game are two reasons behind his less-than-stellar 48.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.
With Charles nearing a return and free-agent signing Nick Gates itching to get back involved, it wouldn't be a shock to see Paul removed from the lineup with a poor outing versus the New York Giants. And for all their difficulties this season, the G-Men still have a defensive front capable of wrecking any game.