The lights were bright at Lambeau Field, but the Washington Commanders went dim. Their 27-18 loss to the Green Bay Packers wasn’t just another defeat; it was a wake-up call that stripped away their early-season confidence. Dan Quinn‘s Washington appeared out of sync from the first drive, struggling at the line and getting outpaced all over the field. A night meant to showcase progress instead exposed cracks everywhere, from coaching decisions to roster choices.

Now, one decision stands out: head coach Dan Quinn is facing pressure to reduce WR Noah Brown’s role.

As Bryan Manning of Commanders Wire put it, “Why is Daniels targeting Brown downfield in a one-on-one matchup? Why aren’t these opportunities going to Terry McLaurin?” Manning noted Brown “can’t separate, can’t catch, can’t stay healthy,” and after leaving Thursday’s game with yet another groin injury, it’s clear the Commanders must rethink his role. Rookie Luke McCaffrey already showed promise with a 19-yard grab and a two-point conversion, while Jaylin Lane is waiting for his shot. Washington spent meaningful draft capital on both—now it’s time to see what they can do.

However, against the Packers, Jayden Daniels repeatedly looked Brown’s way in one-on-one situations, but the results aren’t just inconsistent. They’re stalling drives. Those same downfield chances could be better used on Terry McLaurin, Washington’s most proven receiver, yet instead the offense keeps wasting snaps on low-percentage throws to Brown. With an already shaky passing game, it’s a problem that can’t keep repeating.

The timing makes the decision even more pressing. Daniels just played his worst game as a pro, under constant pressure behind a line that couldn’t hold up. So, that leaves Dan Quinn with a choice. Stick with the veteran presence who’s long been a safety net—or lean into the rookies who might inject life into the unit. Sentiment still lingers around Brown’s highlight-reel Hail Mary catch, but it’s not enough to justify snaps that should belong elsewhere.

After Thursday’s loss, the Commanders don’t just have an injury problem. They have a personnel problem at receiver. Unless Brown’s role is reduced, Washington risks wasting valuable reps that could speed up McCaffrey and Lane’s development. If the offense is going to climb out of its early rut, the shake-up has to start here.

Commanders’ offense stalls in loss to Packers

The final snap said it all. Green Bay Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons sliced through two blockers, forcing Jayden Daniels into yet another desperate throw. 

Head coach Dan Quinn had been emphasizing execution all week, referring to early mistakes as “close” plays. But Thursday night proved they were anything but. Washington could only manage 15 first downs, with two coming from penalties, and a mere total of 230 yards (compared to the Packers’ 404). This was their worst offensive performance since Daniels took over as the starter and Kliff Kingsbury stepped in as offensive coordinator.

Green Bay completely shut them down. Parsons racked up eight pressures, six of which came after halftime, while Washington’s run game disappeared. Just 51 rushing yards, with Daniels leading the way. He ended up 24-of-42 for 200 yards, but none of his seven scrambles were able to move the chains. The Commanders averaged a mere 3.5 yards per play, converted five of 16 third downs, and managed only two explosive plays. Blitzes rattled Daniels all night; he completed just three passes on 12 such plays.

Kingsbury’s play-calling lacked any real spark. Repeated back-shoulder throws down the sideline rarely connected, leaving drives hanging in the balance. Even the usually dependable Matt Gay missed two long field goals, adding to the frustration.

A late touchdown to Deebo Samuel and a two-point strike to Luke McCaffrey only softened the scoreline. The reality was harsher. The Commanders were overwhelmed from start to finish.

The night ended with more pain. Austin Ekeler left on a cart with an Achilles injury. John Bates, Noah Brown, and Deatrich Wise also exited hurt. Samuel admitted the injuries “take the fight out of you.” For Washington, it wasn’t just a loss. It was a gut punch and a flashing warning sign.