Commanders News: Sam Howell, OT target, Ron Rivera and Martin Mayhew
By Dean Jones
Commanders GM receives low rank in NFL.com list
It’s been a mixed bag for Martin Mayhew since becoming Washington Commanders general manager. While Ron Rivera has the final say on personnel decisions, the input given by the front office figure holds tremendous weight – even if it wasn’t enough for the team to make another postseason appearance last time around.
A recent general manager power ranking further highlighted the indifferent opening to Mayhew’s tenure alongside Rivera. Gregg Rosenthal from NFL.com placed the Washington power tandem at No. 22 out of 24 eligible, which is thanks in no small part to their disastrous trade to acquire Carson Wentz from the Indianapolis Colts.
"“Through three seasons, (Ron) Rivera and Mayhew are 22-27-1 together. Their drafts have been average, at best, although Sam Howell developing into a true starting quarterback would change that. The team’s best players, including most of the boffo defensive line, was acquired by the previous regime. The Carson Wentz trade was a disaster.”"
Mayhew is one of many under increasing pressure to get things right this off-season. The new ownership group won’t take kindly to any further personnel failings, so significant improvements must arrive to avoid any further speculation about his job status.
While Mayhew is highly respected in league circles, the chances of surviving any widespread changes under a new regime appear remote. But he won’t be alone in that regard.