3 keys to week 5 against the Commanders

Deal with the strong defensive front of the commanders

The Browns continue to battle injuries to their offensive line – RT Jack Conklin and LT Jedrick Wills Jr. are questionable for Week 5 – and face another tough test against the Commanders. Stefanski said it's a physical front that plays aggressively.

“This is an outstanding defensive front. “Obviously those two interior players are outstanding, so it’s a big challenge,” Stefanski said.

The Commanders have DT Daron Payne and DT Jonathan Allen on the inside and DE Clelin Ferrell and DE Dorance Armstrong on the edges, creating challenges for the front four. On the interior, Payne has recorded four tackles, two quarterback hits and half a sack this season, while Allen has nine total tackles, one tackle for loss, four quarterback hits and one sack. On the outside, Armstrong has nine tackles, one tackle for loss, seven quarterback hits, two sacks and one forced fumble this season.

At linebacker, the Commanders have LB Bobby Wagner under center, who recorded 1,744 tackles in his 13-year career, tied for the fifth-most tackles in NFL history. This season, Wagner has recorded 38 tackles, five tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, one pass defended and half a sack.

Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey noted the effort Washington's front makes every game, which requires the Browns' offensive line to use their technique, effort and effort to block against their defensive front.