Which Washington Commanders' news stories are hitting the headlines as players and coaches gear up for their second day of organized team activities?
While developments continue off the field with the Washington Commanders sale taking up the majority of beat reporters' time, it was heart-warming to see players and staff coming together as one for the official start of OTAs. The early signs were positive, but this was just a small step in what is sure to be another eventful preparation period for the franchise.
As expected where the Commanders are concerned, the news keeps coming. Among the stories causing conversation recently include Chase Young's absence from OTAs, a potential breakout campaign for Brian Robinson Jr., Sam Howell makes a good opening impression, and some influential figures remain confident Washington's sale will be approved.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Is Chase Young's absence from Commanders OTAs a big deal?
The primary focus was on the players who turned up for voluntary OTAs. But the absence of defensive end Chase Young caused some significant debate among the fanbase on social media.
This is a method Young's adopted since joining the Commanders as the No 2 overall selection in 2020, so it shouldn't come as a surprise. However, given how things have unfolded for the player in recent seasons, many believe a shift in approach is needed.
It'll be interesting to hear Ron Rivera's thoughts when he speaks to the media later today (Wednesday). Missing the session doesn't appear to be that big of a deal, but extra attention is the last thing Young needs given how much is on the line in 2023.
Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr. poised for 2023 breakout
After catching the eye when finally healthy enough to participate last season, the Washington Commanders are expecting big things from Brian Robinson Jr. in 2023. With a smoother offseason and some better luck, his emergence as the lead running back could be a tremendous asset for the offense to call upon throughout the campaign.
Robinson looked sharp on the opening day of OTAs and spoke recently about how beneficial having Eric Bieniemy around the place has been so far. The offensive guru is a former prolific backfield presence himself, so the second-year pro would be wise to hang on to his every word.
The former Alabama star was named as a potential breakout candidate in a recent feature by Seth Trachtman from Yardbarker. If this comes to fruition, there's just no telling what sort of numbers Robinson can put up if Washington's new-look offensive line also makes strides.
"Much of the focus this offseason has been on young quarterback Sam Howell, but new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy's addition could help Washington's running backs even more. The former running backs coach will lean on [Brian] Robinson, who improved as his rookie season progressed after recovering from a gunshot wound just before Week 1."Seth Trachtman, Yardbarker
Having a dependable running back capable of shouldering the load is the hallmark of any contending team. The Commanders want to get Antonio Gibson more involved, but Robinson has a significant opportunity to become a true superstar with additional refinement under Bieniemy next season.
Commanders QB Sam Howell makes good first impression
After all the speculation and rumors about what the Washington Commanders might do at the quarterback position this offseason, Sam Howell was probably more relieved than most to get onto the practice field for OTAs. This is the start of what should be the journey toward starting under center in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals.
While it's the most relaxed setting Howell will experience during the preparation period, it was important for the North Carolina product to impose himself early. According to Zach Selby from the team's website, it's something the signal-caller was able to accomplish with minimal fuss on Day 1 of OTAs.
"[Sam] Howell looked in command of the offense in the huddle and during plays, but his accuracy stuck out on several occasions. He only had four incompletions combined in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills: one was out of bounds targeting Brian Robinson, but the rest were drops. One of the more impressive passes was to Terry McLaurin with Benjamin St-Juste bearing down on him. Another highlight was a sideline toss to John Bates, who made the snag right before Jartavius Martin could break up the play."Zach Selby, Commanders.com
There is a long, long way to go. Jacoby Brissett also had a decent day despite giving up an interception to Tariq Castro-Fields, so it'll be fascinating to watch this dynamic shape out as the summer goes on.
All signs point to Howell being the No. 1 for Washington's regular season opener. Whether the former fifth-round selection can provide the stability needed is a completely different matter.
Leading figures remain confident in Commanders sale
Of course, one big distraction remains. Something that has clouded the Washington Commanders' offseason and might have some miles to go before a formal conclusion is reached just yet.
The pending sale to an ownership group led by Josh Harris is in the process of being scrutinized heavily. Some have doubts about the financial structure of the $6.05 billion deal, with the significant number of minority partners another potential stumbling block that warrants deeper consideration.
When asked about the transaction during the spring NFL owners' meetings, Roger Goodell stated via Yahoo Sports that he is confident something would get rubber-stamped at some stage. Although the commissioner didn't give an exact timeframe with everything still ongoing.
"I think we’ll get it to a place where we’ll get it approved. We’re hard at work as a staff looking at that, as we do every transaction. There’s a lot of due diligence, as well as compliance issues."Roger Goodell via Yahoo Sports
This was a sentiment echoed by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones via USA Today. He also praised how highly qualified the Harris group appeared when it comes to running sports franchises, which will surely help.
"These are outstandingly qualified owners, and not just; there are a handful of qualified owners here. Certainly, the significant ones you read about are very qualified. That always rules the day on getting …….cleared with the NFL."Jerry Jones via USA Today
The wait goes on. But as long as the end result eventually arrives and Dan Snyder is no longer bringing disgrace to the organization, no Commanders fan will care.