NFL Rumors: Commanders Disagreed with Critics of Jayden Daniels' OL Ahead of 3-1

Despite coming off of a season in which the Washington Commanders' offensive line allowed a league-high 65 sacks, those inside the team were much more bullish on the unit's prospects entering the 2024-25 season, and have been rewarded for their faith through four games.

ESPN's John Keim spoke to multiple team sources who cited numerous factors in the sack total -- from former offensive coordinator Eric Bienemy's emphasis on the pass, to quarterback Sam Howell's tendency to hold on to the ball and also the general talent level of the group.

Washington made numerous offseason changes to the offense, including the addition of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, veteran center Tyler Biadasz, left guard Nick Allegretti and left tackle Brandon Coleman. As a result, the Commanders head into Week 5 with the 11th-fewest sacks allowed in the NFL.

"We know they (offensive line) weren't the most hyped up to start the season," offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury told reporters. "But they've really taken pride in their approach as a unit and their physical nature and finishing plays and toughness and their communication is awesome."

With a red-hot quarterback in Daniels, who ranks fourth for the shortest time before passing at 2.52 seconds, according to Keim, the offense has had more time and opportunity to showcase its dominance over the league's best defenses, also ranking third in time before a sack at 5.38 seconds.

Heading into Week 5, the 3-1 Commanders will face the struggling Cleveland Browns and Deshaun Watson.