What were some critical observations from Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera’s presser at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine?
This is a crucial offseason for the Washington Commanders and head coach Ron Rivera, in particular. The pressure on his shoulders could be enormous if a new ownership group comes into the fold, which instantly makes his seat among the league’s hottest despite doing a pretty decent job over his first two seasons at the helm.
It’s been an encouraging start to the team’s plans for Rivera. Convincing a prestigious offensive mind such as Eric Bieniemy to join his project represents a major coup and slapping the franchise tag on defensive tackle Daron Payne is another big step in the right direction.
Washington has some money to spend on free agents should they wish. With eight selections in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Commanders also have a chance to strengthen multiple areas on the cheap if they find the right recruits.
A fascinating few weeks await. But what were some critical observations from Rivera’s media availability at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis?
Critical Observation No. 1
Commanders releasing Carson Wentz
Even though the move to release Carson Wentz was widely anticipated, it didn’t make things any easier for Ron Rivera. This is always the hardest part of the business, but the Washington Commanders’ head coach was quick to thank his former quarterback for the hard work he put in throughout a one-and-done campaign.
"“He did the best he could, and we really appreciate that as well.”"
The Commanders will now move forward without Wentz, who faces the prospect of a backup role elsewhere given how his career has unfolded in recent years.
Commanders will make Sam Howell earn QB1 spot
Even though the Washington Commanders plan to move Sam Howell atop their quarterback depth chart heading into OTAs, the position is far from guaranteed. Ron Rivera made that clear in no uncertain terms during his media availability at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Although Rivera was full of praise for Howell, he kept all options open. Whether that’s another signal-caller from the college ranks or a veteran in free agency is undecided, but competition is definitely coming for the one-time North Carolina standout in some shape or form.
"“He’s not our starter. He’s coming in as the QB1. He’ll get a great opportunity to be our starter. But we do want to find a veteran quarterback. We have Taylor Heinicke that’s a free agent. We’ve got to work through that as well. And we’ll see what happens from there.”"
This is laying down the gauntlet to Howell, who demonstrated growth in practice throughout the season and made a good impression during his only start against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 18. But there’s every chance further improvements can arrive once he gets to grips with Eric Bieniemy’s west coast system.
In an ideal world, Howell will win the job and thrive on a cheap deal that the organization can build around. If not, the Commanders will be coming up with a contingency plan or two in the event things don’t work out.
The elephant in the Commanders room
Despite the latest news surrounding Dan Snyder and another legal investigation about his allegedly shady dealings surrounding a $55 million loan, Ron Rivera was all about football business. He didn’t entertain any questions about the owner, instead deciding to focus his attention and discussion on the immediate matters at hand.
There were multiple topics that came up. Eric Bieniemy’s arrival, his potential impact, and what the Washington Commanders are looking to get out of their pre-draft process with eight selections at their disposal.
None of this involved Snyder. And that was the right call to make.
If Rivera spent all day answering questions about Snyder – with new twists and accusations arriving by the week – he wouldn’t have time for football. And the head coach can ill afford any slip-ups this offseason with so much at stake in 2023.
With any luck, Snyder won’t be Washington’s problem soon. Even if he’s going to make it extremely difficult for any bidder in the weeks ahead.
That’s of no consequence to Rivera, at least not where Snyder is concerned. What’s important for him is putting this team in a good position to make improvements next season, which might be enough for a new owner to avoid drastic alterations.
Commanders get serious with Daron Payne
The Washington Commanders made their intentions regarding Daron Payne‘s future known in the early hours of Tuesday morning. He officially became the first NFL player to be franchise tagged this offseason, which is set to cost the organization around $18.93 million in 2023.
This was something that Ron Rivera clearly wanted to get sorted quickly. If nothing else, the head coach laid out how serious the Commanders are about looking after their own and getting a long-term deal secured before the franchise deadline.
"“The guy’s been very integral to the development of this football team and this defense as well as the other guys he plays alongside. We just wanted to make sure everybody understood that we are serious.”"
Payne came of age last season en route to 11.5 sacks and his first-ever Pro Bowl appearance. Allocating the franchise tag gives Washington additional time to work out a contract, which is something the team could afford with bundles of salary-cap space in 2024.
The former first-round pick would have cost a lot less had the Commanders tied him down last year. Even if not many envisaged such a monumental leap forward entering Year 5 of his professional career.
Good teams don’t let their top stars walk. Rivera knows that better than anybody, so Payne returning on the franchise tag will give everyone associated with the Commanders a massive lift.