Will the Washington Commanders offense hold them back in 2023?

Could the Washington Commanders' offense hold them back once again during their potentially franchise-altering 2023 campaign?

There doesn't appear to be much preventing the Washington Commanders' defense from becoming one of the NFL's best in 2023. Especially considering defensive end Chase Young is returning with a big chip on his shoulder after the team declined his fifth-year option.

The main questions surround Washington's offense. This side of the football was nothing short of lackluster last season, which resulted in offensive coordinator Scott Turner getting fired and quarterback Carson Wentz being released after his disastrous trade from the Indianapolis Colts went as many anticipated.

Big changes were obviously coming. The Commanders fortified their offensive line with the signings of Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie, with veteran free-agent Jacoby Brissett coming into the fold to provide competition for Sam Howell and a stable mentor presence at the quarterback spot.

Commanders offensive unknowns could be a problem in 2023

Eric Bieniemy's arrival was the most important of all. Convincing the respected offensive mind to leave the Kansas City Chiefs for increased responsibilities could be a masterstroke from Ron Rivera if it has the desired effect with Josh Harris and his ownership group watching every move closely.

Bieniemy made an immediate impression with raised standards, increased tempo, and more accountability. This increases optimism further, but not even a more expansive scheme will prevent disaster if Howell and the protection crumbles.

Garrett Podell from CBS Sports explored this topic in greater detail when tipping the Commanders to finish last in the NFC East next season. While the potential is evident, the writer stated there are far too many unknowns to guarantee improvements right now.

"Questions abound at their quarterback position. The hiring of assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy will help the development of the two quarterbacks in contention to start -- 2022 fifth-round pick Sam Howell (one career game played) and journeyman Jacoby Brissett -- but neither appears poised to make a Geno Smith-like leap in 2023 despite some nice wider receiver talent in Pro Bowler Terry McLaurin plus speedsters Jahan Dotson and Curtis Samuel. Too much is unknown about Washington's offense at this point to pick them to finish ahead of the Eagles, Cowboys or Giants -- all teams that won a playoff game last season."

- Garrett Podell, CBS Sports

These unknowns - especially where Howell is concerned - might be something that works in their favor. The defense should also be able to keep games close during inevitable times of struggle.

This is almost entirely dependent on Howell working out. The former fifth-round selection has an untold amount of pressure on his shoulders, which is almost blind faith considering he's got just one career start under his belt - a win against the Dallas Cowboys to conclude the 2022 campaign.

Bieniemy can only do so much. If the quarterback, offensive line, and tight end position become a collective weak link, it's hard to envisage a scenario where Washington's offense improves enough to make waves within such a competitive division.

That is the worst-case scenario. For now, there is a genuine belief that Bieniemy and the other changes made can be the catalyst behind better fortunes offensively - something that could make a huge difference in the Commanders' quest for postseason football.

The line is fine and the stakes are high. But in truth, it could really go either way.