USAT: Washington Wire audio clip

USAT: Washington Wire

Mar 19, 2022

The Washington Commanders introduced quarterback Carson Wentz to the local media and fans Thursday in a press conference at the team’s headquarters. Wentz came across as happy, positive, humbled and appreciative when reporters asked him questions from his team-colored blazer to why things ended badly in Indianapolis. - Wentz was a total professional, and the first meeting couldn’t have gone any better, but that honeymoon will not last if Wentz plays as he did in the final two games of the 2021 season with the Colts. - After the presser, local reporters had the opportunity to have a Q&A with head coach Ron Rivera. Rivera discussed several topics in the session, including his trip to North Carolina to meet Joe Gibbs for advice. - What advice did he need from Washington’s Hall-of-Fame head coach? The pursuit of a franchise quarterback, of course. - Ben Standig of The Athletic had an excellent story Friday detailing Rivera’s pursuit that eventually landed with Wentz. It’s an excellent read. - The biggest takeaway from Standig’s talk with Rivera was the following quote: - “You have questions. I don’t,” Rivera said, referring to Wentz. - There are many ways to decipher Rivera’s quote. First, what is he supposed to stay? Of course, he is going to say he has zero doubts about his new passer. That’s what he should say. I do think Rivera fully believes in Wentz. - But, why should the media or fans take anything at face value? Why would the media or fans not have questions or concerns about Wentz? The red flags are glaring. Two teams dropped him and his contract in two years. The Colts dealt him after trading multiple draft picks, including a 2022 first-rounder for him — and dumped him after one season. - Indianapolis’ head coach, Frank Reich, was Wentz’s biggest ally in the NFL. While it sounded more like an ownership decision rather than a Reich decision, it doesn’t appear the coach put up too much of a fight. - Wentz’s talent is undeniable. In his 2017 season, he looked like the next Aaron Rodgers. Since that time, well, it’s been a mixed bag. His arm is elite, and he’s also a terrific athlete. Back injuries have taken away some of the Wentz we saw five years ago, but he’s far from a statue in the pocket. - However, Wentz is still only 29. There are reasons to be optimistic. And while social media went wild on Washington giving up two third-round picks, one of which can become a second-rounder if Wentz plays 70% of snaps in 2022, that’s not an exorbitant price to upgrade the quarterback position. - What Washington must do now is surround Wentz with more help. Add another tight end, add another wide receiver and continue to build depth on the offensive line. You made the commitment with the trade, now make the commitment to give Wentz every chance to succeed. - Will it end badly? Perhaps. Could Wentz turn his career around? Sure. While he may never resemble the 2017 version of himself, Wentz still possesses the ability to be a top 10-12 quarterback in the NFL. - It’s outstanding Rivera believes in his new quarterback. He should. But don’t be upset if others have questions. -   -   - - - - - - - - - - - - Email - - - - - Sign up - - - - - - - - Like this article? - Sign up for the Washington Wire email newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning - - - - An error has occured - - - Please re-enter your email address. - - - - - - Thanks for signing up! - - - You'll now receive the top Washington Wire stories each day directly in your inbox.

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