What to make of Carson Wentz-Jason Wright controversy with local reporter

A Thursday interview between a local Washington Commanders beat reporter and quarterback Carson Wentz became a full-blown controversy Friday morning.  The unfortunate episode should go away quickly, but it could linger for another day or two.

A quarterback controversy is nothing new to Washington fans, but this time it is much different than what has happened in the past.  Quarterback issues of all sorts have plagued the Burgundy and Gold for more than 50 years.

The Sonny vs. Billy debate of the early 1970s fully divided the DMV and the lines were fiercely drawn.  The Jay Schroeder vs. Doug Williams debates actually produced a Super Bowl championship after the 1987 season.  In the 1990s we had Heath Shuler and Gus Frerotte butting heads (historical football pun fully intended).  Do you remember Robert Griffin III vs. Kirk Cousins?

Also, we can’t forget about the numerous quarterbacks that have come to Ashburn with the hopes and dreams of Washington fans everywhere over the last three decades.  All of it ended in bitter disappointment.  Earlier during this offseason, fans were intrigued with the trade that brought 6-5, 240-pound Carson Wentz and his very strong arm to town.  Analysts are mixed on what he can bring to the Commanders, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he produced a season that fans haven’t seen at the position for nearly half a decade.  So why is there controversy with Wentz all of a sudden?

On Thursday following the morning practice, Carson Wentz sat down with local beat reporter Scott Abraham of local affiliate ABC7, and here is a part of that conversation.

It was upsetting for many fans, but one of the strongest reactions came from team president Jason Wright.

The reaction from Wright was very candid, but Scott Abraham is unlikely to lose his credentials.  However, it demonstrates how much the coaches, players, and front office like Carson Wentz and what he brings to the team.  Wentz handled the exchange in a very professional manner and gave honest answers to the questions.

Was it controversial?  Perhaps.  Honestly, Abraham should’ve taken a much different tone.  He didn’t need to be so confrontational or combative.  All it did was cause a full-blown reaction from the team president, fans, and several analysts.  One thing is certain – the players are likely to give even more support to their quarterback.  Rallying around Wentz could bring the team closer together and produce a season full of victories.

A training camp and preseason that was relatively quiet and uneventful for the Washington Commanders suddenly became a controversial distraction.  Look for the team to put it quickly behind them and move forward.  Scott Abraham crossed a tacky line and the organization could be casting a wary eye in his direction, but that is likely to fade away as well.

We have so much to focus on until the season arrives.  We can be thankful that this episode is in the rear-view mirror.  See you as we go along.