5 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 5 vs. the Browns
By Dean Jones
The Washington Commanders make their triumphant return to home soil this weekend. Dan Quinn and his coaching staff masterminded two impressive road victories over the last fortnight, which cemented their early status at the NFC East summit and got the national talking heads speculating about whether this rebuild can bear immediate fruit in Year 1 under the new regime.
There's just no telling for sure about that right now, but it's hard to ignore the building momentum and increasing excitement among the fanbase. The Commanders will be looking for a fourth consecutive success against the Cleveland Browns in Week 5, who haven't met lofty expectations as yet but cannot be taken lightly by any stretch.
Cleveland still boasts an outstanding defense. Veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson is going through some issues without a legitimate rushing attack to depend upon. That's about to change with the impending return of running back Nick Chubb. Whether this game comes too soon after so long away from the gridiron is another matter.
With that being said, here are five Commanders players on the hot seat versus the Browns. And remember, being on the hot seat doesn't necessarily mean a player's spot is in jeopardy. It could mean Washington needs this individual to become an influential factor in the overall outcome.
Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 5 vs. the Browns
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders must be thrilled what what they've seen from Frankie Luvu over the last two weeks. His production and ability to inspire others around him are growing with every passing contest. They'll need all this and more from the second-level enforcer this weekend at Northwest Stadium.
Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive unit must keep their eyes on Deshaun Watson at all times. For all his faults since returning to the lineup following injury and suspension, he's a slippery customer in the pocket who can improvise effectively when given chances. Luvu needs to identify the play unfolding and get to the contact spot quickly. Generating some pressure would also assist the defense's cause.
The Browns are not running the football well, averaging just 94.8 yards per game on the ground. They could be getting some prominent offensive linemen back into the lineup, which is something Luvu needs to counteract with his customary athleticism and passion.