Washington Commanders are filled with optimism after Carson Wentz’s spring – NFL Nation

ASHBURN — The first impressions of quarterback Carson Wentz You have left the Washington Commanders The next one was exciting. They got to see what they had hoped for this spring: a strong arm which should allow them to increase their offense. The work ethic, and the brains.

These attributes made Wentz attractive for the presidency. Philadelphia EaglesHe was selected by, who ranked him No. He was ranked No. 2 overall in 2016 and the Indianapolis ColtsHe was traded for by him in March 2021. They are now the attributes Commanders point out after Wentz was traded for on March 9, hoping that he can secure a position which has been a revolving gate for decades.

Let’s recap: Washington has had 31 different quarterbacks since winning the Super Bowl in 1991. Nine of those have been over the last three seasons. Wentz was also traded in each offseason, something that was not possible just a few years ago.

This pairing is essential for both sides to succeed.

Wentz stated, “I would love nothing more than to be here for a long period of time and have lots of success.”

He has been signed for three years more, but there is no guarantee of money after 2022. Washington liked the spring and is still unsure if he will be the long-term answer.

Scott Turner, offensive coordinator, stated that he is capable of doing many different things. “Obviously, he’s a very skilled player. He’s big and strong, as you can see from his practice. He is a great player and can push the ball down the field.

Washington is fortunate to have Wentz as a recent example of a quarterback who offers hope.

Alex Smith came to Kansas City via trade in 2018, following one of the best seasons. His career was changed and almost ended when he broke his fibula. Washington drafted Dwayne Hakins in 2019 with the No. 15th overall pick. He was removed before the second season. The organization had hoped Ryan Fitzpatrick, a veteran-free agent, would be the solution last year. In the second quarter, he sustained a devastating hip injury that ended his season.

None of them had Wentz’s arm. Wentz is also 29 years old, so if Washington clicks for him, he could still be here.

If you don’t,

Troy Aikman, ESPN NFL analyst and Hall of Fame quarterback stated that this is “probably his last chance” to prove he can be a franchise NFL quarterback.

Wentz replied two weeks later that he didn’t know what was being said. I am fine with it. Everyone has their opinion. I don’t try to place too much pressure on my self. Although I have high expectations of myself and the offense, I don’t set those kinds of high standards for myself. It is hard to have the mental space necessary to sort of process it all, and it can get tiring.

The Commanders’ observations have fueled their enthusiasm for the season and training camp. Coach Ron Rivera highlighted Wentz’s work ethic and how hard Wentz worked this spring. Rivera would then hear Wentz speak after several plays. The coach would see Wentz talking about the things he could do better on a play.

Rivera is also happy with what he hears in the huddle.

Rivera stated, “I like his command over our offense.” He is very communicative with his teammates when he speaks to them about certain aspects of the play. It gives me confidence. But, when he calls plays in the huddle, I know that his teammates can also feel the confidence.

The coaches love Wentz’s ability to work through his progressions and keep the rhythm. Minicamp’s first play saw the receiver take control of the ball. Cam Sims As the ball arrived, Sims turned. Sims was too slow to move into his path, and Sims was surprised when the ball went through his hands. It was a lesson to the wideouts.

Drew Terrell, receivers coach said that Cam was concerned about his footing on the grass and not the technique of running the route. “That’s a prime example a great throw in rhythm that requires us to be there for the play. It was spot on.

This running back J.D. McKissic Wentz: “He picked up the offense very quickly. He’s smart, intelligent, he gets the ball out quickly, and he can also move well in the pocket. He is looking just like young Carson.

Wentz wasn’t perfect. On occasion, he was intercepted by the defense and made some mistakes with his throws. Washington’s questions about his leadership abilities will require time.

Ken Zampese, the quarterbacks coach, stated that “The beauty about moving to a new place is that you can reinvent yourself.” “You can start again if there are things you don’t love about yourself from other places. Let’s not let that happen, as I know from personal experience. [again]. … Nobody is holding you to an outdated standard.

Wentz was forced to re-emerge in Philadelphia after losing his backup. Nick Foles In 2017, Wentz was injured and he was replaced by a Super Bowl champion Eagles. Wentz was compared to Andrew Luck, Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers in Indianapolis.

Washington doesn’t have such scrutiny, but only optimism.

Zampese stated, “He’s just too powerful.” “The ball is so quick to get up and down, it’s almost impossible to hit downfield targets.” For most [QBs] It’s easy to do on a 10-yard route. Once you get to 15-20 yards, it’s almost like “ah.” [Wentz] The ball is zipped in the same. [on longer routes]. We are able to access the field faster than some other places.

This cornerback Kendall Fuller“He asks questions all the time: Why did it look like that? It was how did you see it. Everyone knows his arm talent. But it’s the small things that are most important.

Wentz’s optimism comes from the quality players around him, receivers Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel Jahan DotsonRunning backs Antonio Gibson McKissic and McKissic tight end Logan Thomas. It is a result of changes in his personal and professional life, which he says have helped him grow. He is married (2018) and has two children.

“Everything’s changed. Wentz said that maturing makes you see the world differently. “So, I am always learning and trying to build and grow as many relationships as possible with everyone, from coaches and equipment staff to training staff. I’m gonna make mistakes. I will admit it. It’s true. [I’m] Always striving to improve and become more self-reflective in order to be a better person.

Wentz’s arm does not need to age. He is a natural at the quick underneath game, which is what coaches love about him.

Although the Commanders can be dangerous horizontally and vertically with their speed at receivers, the Turner offense is primarily focused on the downfield. Since entering the league, Wentz ranks eighth in passing attempts of 20 air yards or more, 11th with 140 touchdown passes (eighth since 2017) and 19th in Total QBR (12th since 2017) according to ESPN Stats & Information research. In the same time span, Washington’s Total QBR rank 31st while its 98 touchdown passes rank 28th.

Zampese will not try to change someone who loves to throw deep.

Zampese stated, “I want that man.” We’ve been searching for guys like him; they are scarce. It is easier to get a man to stop pushing you around than it is to get him to do the same. This is hog heaven. This is exactly what our family wanted.”