4 pivotal matchups to watch during Commanders joint practices with Ravens

Commanders revamped OL vs. Ravens DL

To say the Washington Commanders' offensive line struggled in their first preseason action would be a vast understatement. Quarterbacks were under constant pressure as the protection gave up two sacks on the night as well as a holding penalty in the end zone that led to a safety.

The Cleveland Browns were able to wreak havoc on Washington's protection despite their best pass rusher missing in action. Superstar defensive end Myles Garrett was given the night off, but it didn't matter.

The Commanders' offensive line has been a point of contention all summer. Most fans feel the team has not done enough to address the obvious issues with Washington's porous protection.

Veterans Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie were the Commanders' supposed stop-gap solutions after signing this offseason in free agency. But both are most likely replacement-level at best and offer no elite upside.

Second-year-pro Chris Paul will combine with tackle-convert Sam Cosmi at guard for Washington this season and could be the surprising strength of the group. However, long-in-the-tooth left tackle Charles Leno Jr. has regressed significantly during his time in D.C. after years of serving as a solid but unspectacular starter.

The Baltimore Ravens boast a bevy of talented defenders that will give Washington's suspect offensive line fits. Their formidable front seven features Tyus Bowser, Patrick Queen, Odafe Oweh, David Ajabo, Michael Pierce, and the aforementioned All-Pro Roquan Smith.

Washington's patchwork protection will be put on full display against the ferocious Ravens front this week in joint practices before Monday's preseason bout. This should provide additional insight as the Commanders continue to search for consistency and production from their otherwise underwhelming assortment on the offensive line.