ASHBURN VA — Just a few minutes before the Washington CommandersOn May 6, at the rookie practice, Ron Rivera gave a quick assessment to the media. He rattled off the first impressions for each draft pick and sounded like someone who would like us to fast-forward through August.
He said, “It’s an interesting group.”[However]It’s still early, so we try to temper it all.”
Washington should expect more from players already on the roster BeforeThe draft. The veterans must lead if the Commanders are to improve on their 7-10 season and contend for Rivera’s NFC East title in Rivera’s third season.
It is possible to imagine their top four draft picks in 2022 — receiver Jahan Dotson (first round), defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis(second), running back Brian Robinson Jr. Safety and third Percy Butler(fourth), — plays key roles. Even fifth round tight end Cole TurnerYou have a chance to be of assistance.
It would be a solid draft. But, it is possible that only Dotson begins. The following four veterans can help organizations make great strides.
Washington ranks last among the NFL in touchdown passes and total QBR for the four previous seasons. It has had 10 different quarterbacks in that span.
Last season Taylor HeinickeYou started the 16 remaining games after starter Ryan FitzpatrickInjured in the second quarter.
Heinicke placed 23rd for total QBR with 20 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions. In his first season, Wentz threw 27 touchdown passes to seven interceptions. He also ranked ninth in total QBR.
Since 2005, Washington hasn’t had a QBR leader in quarterbacks. Kirk Cousins2016 This is no coincidence: Washington is now 31-50 years old.
After being traded twice in the last two years, Wentz is not without doubts. He was also traded to Washington on March 9. Here, however, Wentz is viewed differently.
Rivera stated, “There’s some excitement to Carson out here.” Rivera said, “Big, strong arm.”
If Wentz is successful, Wentz can be a quarterback who makes every throw and challenges opponents in areas that are not possible in previous years.
Matt Bowen, ESPN NFL analyst, said that Carson Wentz is “an upgrade”. “It’s clear that Carson can make your offense more aggressive and vertical, giving you more chances to get to the third level.
“He is going against all odds to defend his position. He will challenge the tight windows both inside and outside of the pocket.”
He tore the ACL in his right kneeOn Nov. 14, it offers the most ceiling of any player on the roster. It should be this way for the second overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Washington hopes Young can be back to the speed Young was in the second half his rookie season. He recorded four sacks that season, forced three fumbles, and recovered three more. One of those he returned for touchdown.
Young’s coaches said that he was improving his rush — attacking the blocker on one side rather than going head-on; and exploding further off the line, which allowed him to be more violent with the hands. They believed that he stutter-stepped too much, which led to weak hands and slow rushes. In nine games, he finished with 1.5 sacks as well as two forced fumbles.
Young (6-foot-5 and 264 lbs) and his fellow end Montez SweatThey can transform defenses (6-6, 262) Both are strong and can reach the quarterback.
Young said that “it was definitely frustrating” during an offseason in 2021. “But I’m the kind of guy who never quits working. Everyone experiences hiccups along the way. “I plan to… continue working hard to become the Hall of Famer that I dream to be.”
Samuel is still a mystery in this offense, even though he only played five games last year. A groin injury in June that required surgery, and then later a hamstring problem, meant that he wasn’t fully healthy.
Rivera stated that Samuel was able to move well in off-season workouts.
Martin Mayhew, Washington general manger, said that Curtis should have a “boubou-back” year in March.
Samuel is a source of optimism for team officials. Scott Turner, the offensive coordinator, calls Samuel one of the most intelligent players he has coached. This gives them the ability to move Samuel around in the formation. Turner said that he can also be a downfield target. Samuel can also run routes from the backfield.
Samuel was able to complete 1,051 yards of scrimmage in 2020 with Carolina. He had 38 yards last season. Samuel’s healthy recovery and Dotson would allow for a potentially wider passing attack.
“[Opponents will]You need to spread your defense out more. Rivera stated that this is what you want when playmakers are present.
Washington has not been able to strengthen its linebacking team this offseason, but Davis’ improvements would make it more appealing. Due to his size (6’2″, 234) and speed (4.7 seconds in the 40-yard run at his proday in 2021), he is the No. There is still room for growth as the No. 19 overall pick in 2021.
Washington originally tried Davis as a middle linebacker. However, Davis quickly learned that Davis was not ready for the role. He will now remain outside. Cole Holcomb. The Commanders will likely hire another linebacker, and preferably one with experience in the middle. Holcomb showed promise last season, and was able to make progress on the field.
The Commanders’ defense against Davis would be a major step forward if he ascends and his combination of size-speed results in flash plays.
Rivera stated during walk-throughs that Davis’ handling of formation recognition and adjustments has pleased him.
Rivera stated that right now, all they are really trying to find is that we’re moving in the right direction. “That’s probably been one the biggest pluses.”