Redskins: Four steps to a successful conclusion of the 2019 season
By Ian Cummings
No. 2 – Glean continued growth from rookie QB Dwayne Haskins
The Redskins drafted Dwayne Haskins in Round 1 for a reason. Whether Haskins was a Dan Snyder pick won’t ever be known for certain, but Haskins was drafted early because of his upside, compared to other quarterbacks currently on the roster, as well as the value of selecting him without having to trade up.
With that investment came the introduction of an obligation for the Redskins, to see out Haskins’ development, and ensure that they do the best they can to get a suitable return from their investment. And now, with Haskins showing tangible growth in greater quantities from week to week, there’s nothing left to do but to keep increasing his scope of command.
Success is different for Haskins than it is for a veteran quarterback. Why? Because a veteran quarterback, such as Case Keenum, is more than likely maxed out in his current state. Haskins has developmental potential, and every time he takes a step, it’s more ground gained on the long trek to his peak, wherever that may be. The peak that the Redskins ultimately drafted Haskins to search for. The Redskins need to enable Haskins to flourish on this path, and so far, the live reps have helped immensely with that.
Whatever happens in the 2020 offseason, in regards to coaching changes and other personnel moves, Haskins will be the Redskins starting quarterback, and he needs to have the comfort and authority that comes with that role, in order to succeed. In their last two games, the Redskins can work on cementing those areas of his game, and they can give Haskins a springboard, off of which to move into 2020 with confidence and an arrow pointing up.