Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as the fanbase continues to revel in Dan Snyder’s decision to finally sell the team?
It’s been a weekend of celebration for every Washington Commanders fan after Dan Snyder finally agreed to accept a $6.05 billion offer from the group led by Josh Harris. Something that’s come with relief and jubilation in equal measure following more than two decades of misery.
The news cycle keeps churning regardless as plenty of hangovers are nursed around the D.C. area after some well-deserved beverages to mark the dawning of a new era. Among the recent stories include a shock quarterback pick at No. 16, Dan Snyder’s stubbornness, Robert Griffin III on the sale impact on players, and head coach Ron Rivera’s relief that the ownership saga is almost at an end.
Let’s delve into each topic in more detail.
Story No. 1
Shock QB mocked to Commanders
The Washington Commanders are seemingly comfortable with their quarterback tandem of Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett heading into the 2023 campaign. However, there have been one or two mock drafts in recent days that have the team taking Anthony Richardson at No. 16 overall.
Sports Illustrated’s Bo Marchionte was the latest to mock the former Florida star to the Commanders. This is the definition of a feast-or-famine move, but one that cannot be dismissed if the prospect is available considering the need for new ownership to make a big splash.
"“Richardson’s ideal size and immense athleticism tantalize the possibilities of his greatness. Washington signed journeyman quarterback Jacoby Brissett after the start of free agency and has a limited sample size of last year’s fifth round pick Sam Howell. Assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy will have an opportunity to mold one hell of a freakishly gifted prospect.”"
It would be a bombshell if Richardson made it this far down the pecking order, in all honesty. However, it might be a gamble worth taking for the Commanders in pursuit of getting themselves a franchise signal-caller at long last.
Dan Snyder didn’t get enough for Commanders
After Jeff Bezos formally declared himself out of the running, it left Dan Snyder with no option other than to accept one of the two reported bids already on the table. Even if this meant not getting what he originally anticipated for the Washington Commanders with a reported asking price of $7 billion earlier this year.
Snyder’s frosty demeanor and stubbornness surrounding Bezos initially making an offer proved to be his undoing in pursuit of more cash. While the billionaire is still making a hefty profit after buying the franchise for $800 million, it could have been much more.
When speaking about the topic to Mark Maske and Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post, someone with knowledge of the process – speaking under anonymity – thought the price was a little on the light side.
"“Even if the price is a little disappointing at $6 billion, it’s his right to sell the team to who he wants to. I thought it was worth $7 billion. I don’t know why you’d cut out the one guy who could pay that.”"
The person is obviously referring to Bezos, who reportedly felt he was being used as a bargaining chip for Snyder to get the price up. This ended up being a gamble that didn’t pay off and although it could be a complicated few weeks ahead, the source added that if everything was satisfactory, almost every owner will approve the sale.
The last thing fans need is further stumbling blocks with the end in sight. But for now, it’s all systems go unless another offer comes in beforehand.
Robert Griffin III on Commanders sale
One aspect that went overlooked throughout the ownership saga is the potential impact on Washington Commanders players. It’s not easy working under such distractions, so the timing couldn’t be better with OTAs and training camp on the immediate horizon.
When discussing the sale on a recent NFL Live appearance via Sports Illustrated, Washington’s former quarterback turned analyst Robert Griffin III highlighted what a relief this is going to be for players. Something that should provide increased energy in spades when preparations ramp up for the upcoming campaign.
"“I know it’s a parade in my city right now. They are flooding the streets, excited about this sale of the team. I think this will help to lift a dark cloud from the organization, [and] allow the players and coaches and everyone involved to truly put all of their focus in on only trying to win football games. And obviously, treating the people that work there they way they should be treated [becomes a priority]. So that’s where I come from as a player, it’s a huge burden off of their shoulders. And for the fans, this is what they’ve been asking for and clamoring for.”"
Griffin had the unfortunate obligation to work under Snyder when he became the No. 2 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft. Injuries meant he was unable to become the true franchise quarterback Washington was looking for, but he remains deeply connected to the organization and has a good finger on the player pulse within the building.
This is going to bring fresh hope the good times will return. There’s a lot of work to do before then both on and off the field, but the hope is now officially renewed.
Ron Rivera’s relief at Commanders sale
The Washington Commanders falling into new ownership is bound to put the spotlight squarely on Ron Rivera‘s future with the team. His seat is now among the hottest in football given how these transactions normally come with wholesale changes, so it’ll be interesting to see how the head coach responds to increased pressure when the 2023 campaign arrives.
Rivera’s taken everything in his stride throughout the process, focusing on what he can control rather than worrying too much about other circumstances. When speaking to Jarrett Bell of USA Today, the coach was clearly relieved to see an end to the saga while also maintaining focus on football-related matters ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft.
"“Kind of relief. It really seemed like a load was lifted, because everybody was on pins and needles for the last couple of months. You kind of wondered what was going to happen. Then we got right back to the draft meetings. We’ll still be business as usual.”"
The respected figure is fully aware of what happens if there is a difference of opinion or no notable improvements in the on-field product. This is Rivera’s fourth year of an up-and-down tenure with the Commanders, so everything must go right when competitive games arrive to improve his chances of an extended stay.
Discussions will take place between the new owners and Rivera once everything receives formal approval from the league. Everyone must be on the same page for a sustainable future, but it would be the wrong move to oust the coach at this stage of the offseason before giving him a chance to prove himself.