Quarterback Showdown: Commanders vs. Browns

The Washington Commanders , riding a three-game winning streak, are set to face the Cleveland Browns in a crucial Week 5 matchup. At 3-1, Washington’s offense has surged behind rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, while Cleveland struggles at 1-3, with Deshaun Watson still searching for his former MVP-caliber play.

Watson took the league by storm, much like Daniels is now. Drafted No. 12 overall in 2017, Watson’s early performances drew comparisons to the greats as he posted 19 touchdowns and 1,699 passing yards in his first seven games. He was generating serious MVP buzz during his rookie season. However, since his peak in 2020, Watson has struggled to stay on the field and has been unable to recapture his dominance after missing significant time in 2021 and 2022.

Now, Daniels is the NFL’s latest breakout quarterback. Taken No. 2 overall in 2024, Daniels has been sensational through his first four games. He has completed 87 of 106 passes, boasting a remarkable 82.1 percent completion rate. Although he has just three passing touchdowns, he’s made his biggest impact on the ground, rushing for 218 yards and four touchdowns.

Watson’s recent struggles are well-documented. For the first time in his career, he has gone four straight games without surpassing 200 passing yards. This stark contrast between the rising star in Daniels and the fading veteran in Watson adds another layer to Sunday’s contest.

Related: Jayden Daniels Scouting Report: 'Like What We're Doing!'

As both teams prepare for this Week 5 showdown, all eyes will be on the quarterback battle. Daniels, the fresh face leading Washington’s resurgence , faces Watson, a former rising star still trying to return to form. The outcome could further elevate Daniels as one of the league’s top young quarterbacks, while Watson’s struggles may leave Cleveland regretting their massive investment in the veteran.

With Washington looking to extend its winning streak and Cleveland hoping to salvage its season, this quarterback showdown will be key to the game’s outcome.