Cleveland Browns 2022 opponent preview: Washington Commanders

The Cleveland Browns play the Washington Commanders in Week 17 of the 2022 Season, a game that will be played on New Year’s Day

After taking on the New Orleans Saints on Christmas Eve, the Cleveland Browns will travel to the Nation’s Capital for another holiday game.

This time, it will be on New Year’s Day as they have an afternoon game against the Washington Commanders. It will be the first season for Washington with their new moniker, which might take a while to get used to.

Here, we look ahead to the game — which will be the final non-divisional opponent for the Browns as they close out the season with a Week 18 match against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Commanders 2021 season

After winning the division at 7-9 in 2020, the Washington Football Team hoped the addition of Ryan Fitzpatrick would allow them to improve and again contend for the NFC East. Unfortunately, the bearded wonder threw just six passes before being sent to IR.

With Taylor Heinicke under center, Washington went 7-10 overall which left them on the outside looking in when the postseason began.

Washington did have a couple of players show their talent in 2021 despite the overall struggles as a team. Antonio Gibson had 1,037 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground while Terry McLaurin went for 1,053 yards and five touchdowns on 77 receptions.

Key offseason moves

Washington added Carson Wentz in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts this offseason and also brought in rookie receiver Jahan Dotson. They hope those two can reignite the offense, although they could have another issue with Terry McLaurin currently unhappy with his contract status.

When do the teams meet?

Cleveland will play Washington at FedEx Field on New Year’s Day. It’s another 1:00 EST schedule for the Browns.

Last time the Cleveland Browns played Washington

Washington traveled to Cleveland in September of 2020 and the Browns won that one going away. Baker Mayfield threw two touchdown passes while Nick Chubb had a monster game with 108 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

The late Dwayne Haskins had 224 yards and threw two touchdowns — with McLaurin leading Washington receivers with 83 yards. It wasn’t enough from them as the Browns won 34-20 thanks in large part to a 17-point fourth quarter.

Player to watch

As long as McClaurin gets his contract situation figured out, he’s going to be the guy to watch.

He’s the Commander’s best offensive weapon and can change a game in a hurry with his ability to get deep.