Four Things to Watch on Offense for on Friday Night

The Cleveland Browns will take on the Washington Commanders in Cleveland on Friday night in their second preseason game of the season. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski announced earlier in the week that a majority of starters would play in the game including quarterback Deshaun Watson. Though it's not clear who won't be playing, I would assume that we would see very little if any of Myles Garrett, Denzel Ward and Nick Chubb.

Stefanski said that all players who are healthy will suit-up for the game as there is value in preparing them by going through warmups and getting ready mentally. Stefanski said that the starters would play a series or two depending on how the drives go. With all of that said, there are four main things that I will be watching for on Friday night.

1. Does Deshaun Watson look comfortable?

Everything the Browns have done this offseason on the offensive side of the ball has been about getting Deshaun Watson back to his old self. 700 days is a timeframe that we all want to never hear again and was the talking point of so many during Watson's return last year. For me, his footwork will be the focal point as I hope to see his feet remain calm while facing any pressure in the pocket.

2. Elijah Moore makes his debut.

I know it has become cliche, with all the hype coming from Browns Training Camp but the player that I am most excited to see is Elijah Moore. I hope that he and Watson can connect for a reception or two, to give us a preview of what is to come this season.

3. Which wide receiver will step up.

After the starters exit, my attention will go toward the group of backup wide receivers competing for the last two spots on the depth chart. I think David Bell is almost guaranteed to make the roster but I want to see him make a dynamic play at the NFL level. He is certainly reliable and can get open underneath, but can he get open further downfield or make a guy miss after the catch and get a huge gain.

The window on Anthony Schwartz's time with the Browns is closing fast after a fumble in last weeks game against the Jets. If Schwartz hopes to change the minds of those in the front office in Berea, he has to turn things around beginning tonight.

It's clear that Austin Watkins has established himself as this years camp darling at the wide receiver position. He scored a touchdown in the preseason opener and seems to have the momentum to seize his opportunity with injuries to guys that were ahead of him.

4. Can DaWand Jones have a repeat performance.

The rookie offensive tackle certainly impressed in his debut last week going against talented NFL pass rushers. Can he prove that his play will be consistent over time? What if he could actually improve from week to week as a rookie? That would certainly be a welcome surprise for the team and possibly give Andrew Berry options in the future.

Follow along for all of our post game coverage and analysis as we will all get our first glimpse of what the 2023 Browns should be.