5 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 5 vs. the Browns

Brandon Coleman and Cornelius Lucas

The Washington Commanders are getting tremendous production from their offensive line through four weeks of the season. This new-look unit is cohesive within a scheme that suits their strengths. Jayden Daniels' mobility and ability to get the football out quickly helps, but the group deserves a tremendous amount of credit for the way they've applied themselves up to now.

One of the biggest offseason gambles centered on the left tackle position. The Commanders waited until the third round for Brandon Coleman, who's sharing responsibilities with veteran Cornelius Lucas. They're splitting reps almost evenly, which is a formula that is bearing fruit right now.

The sternest challenge imaginable awaits the blindside duo against the Cleveland Browns in Week 5. Washington needs to counteract the supreme threat All-Pro edge rusher Myles Garrett brings to the table. He's one of the league's best for a reason and can take over an entire game when in the mood. Coleman and Lucas must be at the top of their game to limit his influence.

Guarding Garrett one-on-one is almost impossible. The left tackles need help - whether it be from the interior or through Ben Sinnott and John Bates at the tight end position. That's the only way the Commanders stand a chance of keeping the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year quiet.

Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB

Jayden Daniels has come in for significant praise over the first quarter of his rookie season. The first-year quarterback is a big reason why the Commanders are gaining national headlines for all the right reasons. There's an aura around the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft that's hard not to love. Everything is going much better than even the brightest optimist envisaged.

This is unbelievably positive for Daniels and the Commanders. However, one could make a strong case for this being the biggest test of his fledgling career to date with expectations rising exponentially among the fanbase.

For all the Browns' faults offensively, their defense is still performing at a high level. They've got a stout defensive front, explosive linebackers, cornerbacks who can lock anybody down, and safeties who provide adequate support. It's a different challenge entirely for Daniels, but it's one he'll be sure to relish.

Daniels wants to be considered among the elite quarterbacks around the league sooner rather than later. If he can produce the goods against such a high-caliber defense led by one of the best coordinators around - Jim Schwartz - his fast track to superstardom will continue.

More Commanders news and analysis