Commanders News: Jadeveon Clowney, Eric Bieniemy, Hard Knocks and Chase Young
By Dean Jones
This stage of the preparation period is a chance for fans, players, and coaches to gather themselves and prepare for what's to come. For the Washington Commanders, a bit of peace and tranquility is exactly what's needed after an extremely eventful few months.
Despite this, the news keeps coming whether you like it or not. Among the stories taking up column inches recently include some reported resistance for HBO's Hard Knocks, Chase Young's opportunity, Eric Bieniemy's future head coaching chances, and the Commanders' link to veteran free-agent defensive lineman Jadeveon Clowney.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders resisting Hard Knocks?
There doesn't appear to be a great deal of enthusiasm from the four eligible teams to appear on HBO's Hard Knocks. The New York Jets, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints all publicly stated they'd rather not feature, with Ron Rivera also highlighting his concerns a few years ago about going it again.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the Washington Commanders would be an awkward choice given the ownership change and the ongoing investigations surrounding Dan Snyder. A report from John Niyo of Detroit News also stated that the Lions had been approached about potentially doing an unprecedented sequel.
Either way, Florio feels like there is some level of panic given the timeframe. Something that could result in the NFL sweetening the pot for the Commanders or someone else.
"It seems as if the league is currently scrambling to find a willing participant. A side deal might need to be cut, whether it’s hosting the draft or a Super Bowl or whatever. Or maybe the league just needs to say to one of the four eligible teams, “The rules are the rules.” And then pick one."
- Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk
Watch this space, I guess.