Which Washington Commanders’ news stories are generating significant buzz as some landmark changes remain on the immediate horizon?
There’s no letting up with big stories surrounding the Washington Commanders. Something that’s become par for the course throughout one of the more dramatic offseasons in recent memory across the franchise.
Among the notable recent headlines include Dan Snyder’s reported stance on the Commanders’ sale, the team’s local pro day, a settlement reached in one particular lawsuit, and fresh revelations centering on Dwayne Haskins’ tragic death.
Let’s delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders to welcome hopefuls for local pro day
Today is a big occasion for unheralded college hopefuls looking to stake their NFL claim. The Washington Commanders will host their local pro day, which features some intriguing prospects that could become undrafted free-agent targets provided they impress enough in front of coaches and leading front-office personnel.
There are some small school stars who’ve fought their way up onto the Commanders roster throughout franchise history. Perhaps someone invited to attend this latest showcase can rise from relative obscurity and into contention with a strong performance.
Among the names set to strut their stuff include Joshua Pryor. The talented edge rusher emanates from Bowie State and was the CIAA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 following a standout campaign.
Was Dwayne Haskins drugged before death?
It’s been one year since former Washington Commanders quarterback Dwayne Haskins was tragically killed in a motor accident. The family decided to announce a lawsuit on the anniversary claiming he was drugged and kidnapped before his death was shocking, to say the least.
The actual suit was filed last month. It centers on four individuals and an alleged conspiracy coupled with “negligent acts” from the driver of the dump truck that hit Haskins, who was 24 years old at the time of his passing.
This statement from attorney Rick Ellsley via Brooke Pryor of ESPN explains more in-depth.
"“It is believed that Dwayne was targeted and drugged as part of a blackmail and robbery conspiracy. In fact, his highly-expensive watch was stolen from him shortly before his death. The Florida Highway Patrol Traffic Homicide Report shows that Dwayne was only feet away from making it safely across the roadway when he was struck and killed by an old dump truck. Many questions remain as to why the truck driver did not avoid hitting Dwayne given the highly visible activity in the area before the impact and the fact that the other drivers did not hit Dwayne.”"
It’s hard to know what to truly make of this twist. Haskins was a good guy and held in high esteem among his peers, so whatever comes from this fresh set of allegations won’t detract from what a horrific tragedy this is.
Commanders agree to pay up
Another day, another lawsuit for the Washington Commanders.
It seems to be a never-ending cycle of shame for Dan Snyder on his way out of the door. The latest settlement comes following a failure to repay security deposits from residents within the District of Columbia, which was handled by attorney Brian L. Schwalb.
While the $625,000 sum is chump change compared to what the Snyders are going to sell the Commanders for, the matter is being taken extremely seriously by Schwalb and the district attorney’s office. So much so, they will be keeping a close eye on future transactions surrounding the organization according to a statement via Pro Football Talk.
"“Rather than being transparent and upfront in their ticket sale practices, the Commanders unlawfully took advantage of their fan base, holding on to security deposits instead of returning them. Under this settlement agreement, our office will maintain strict oversight over the Commanders to ensure all necessary steps are taken to reimburse fans for the refunds they are entitled to. Our office takes seriously the obligation to enforce DC consumer protection laws by holding accountable anyone that tries to exploit District consumers.”"
This is another stain on Snyder’s reign. One that will be mercifully over in the very near future with two official bids of $6 billion already on the table.
Being held to account for this latest transgression is another damning indictment of how business was handled behind the scenes when Snyder held absolute power. Thankfully, that won’t be the case for much longer.
Dan Snyder holding out in Commanders’ sale
Although two bids are now in for the Washington Commanders, there’s been no indication that Dan Snyder is going to sell up just yet. In fact, a recent report suggests he could be holding out for a better offer.
A.J. Perez of Front Office Sports revealed that Snyder is willing to wait and see if another bidder enters the fray. Speculation remains about Jeff Bezos throwing his hat into the ring, although nothing concrete has been confirmed one way or another where the Amazon founder is concerned.
"“Snyder is hoping there’s enough curb appeal for another bidder to enter the picture — and he may need Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to make that a reality. Bezos hired a banking firm, but has not entered the bidding process.”"
This news will come with disappointing sighs among the fanbase. They want a successful resolution to the Commanders’ sale saga at the earliest possible opportunity, but the latest rumors surrounding Snyder indicate they might be waiting a while yet.
At this stage, fans are bored with the whole thing. This comes with good reason considering how much smoke there’s been in recent months with very little substance attached.
Snyder will sell the Commanders. It won’t be tomorrow, and it might not be a month from now, but fans can relax safe in the knowledge he won’t be around for the 2023 season.
That’s about the only guarantee anyone can give.