well used to get the cheap filters anyway. I replaced them early and for the most part they all, technically "should" filter the same to a minimum spec.
FRAM, NAPA, i think Donaldson, and a few others never came with washers.
That actually sounds more like it would be it though, and kinda looks like it, I would have to say check that first.
I'd rep but I have to spread it around cause it wont let me