Redskins: Analyzing the official 2019 53-man roster
By Ian Cummings
Quarterback (3)
Case Keenum, Dwayne Haskins, Colt McCoy
There were no surprises here, although it is notable that the Redskins kept Colt McCoy as a third quarterback, as opposed to placing him on temporary injured reserve with a designation to return after Week 8.
McCoy was held out of preseason, and was taken out of the starting battle, in fact, due to his ongoing recovery from a broken leg he suffered late last season. In a way, his unbridled inclusion on the roster is a vote of confidence for his health, and he could be available without consequence in a matter of weeks.
Case Keenum and Dwayne Haskins are the two quarterbacks ahead of McCoy, and for the time being, Keenum is the starter of the group. He was named the starter at the end of preseason, and he’ll take the Redskins to battle against the Eagles in Week 1. Coaching for his job, Jay Gruden felt comfortable with a veteran behind center.
How long Keenum remains the starter is unclear, at this point. Gruden said that as long as Keenum produces, he has nothing to worry about. But consistent production has never been a given in Keenum’s career, save for one year with the 2017 Vikings. If Keenum fails to resurrect that form, then we could see Dwayne Haskins at some point.
Haskins showed off his potential in preseason, displaying more arm talent than both his counterparts, as well as adept mental processing. Haskins recently said in an interview that his goal is to be the starter, so he will continue to push and put pressure on Keenum. It’s ultimately up to Keenum, whether or not he keeps the job. That’s why, if Keenum doesn’t lead the Redskins to wins, we could see a change.