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Ron Rivera Presser: “The running back spot is going to be by committee”

Ron Rivera speaks to the media after today's practice

Washington Football Team Head Coach Ron Rivera returned to practice today after missing yesterday to start his cancer treatments. Rivera is thankful for the group of coaches and staff he has assembled over the years that can take over if needed, and guide the team with his vision. Defensive Coordinator Jack Del Rio took over yesterday’s practice, but he also cited TEs Coach Richard Rodgers and Head Athletic Trainer Ryan Vermillion today. Rivera has had several coaches who have gone through cancer treatments from Chuck Pagano to high school coaches, and he said the passion to get back to coaching inspired him. His players were very supportive as he returned to practice today, and he spoke to a group of core players about also stepping up if he’s not there.

We got the first injury report of the season today, and it features a lot of players who have been dinged up recently. Jonathan Allen tweaked his knee 10 days ago at practice, but was a full participant in today’s practice. Rookie WR Antonio Gandy-Golden has been working off to the side recently, but was a full participant today and is listed with a concussion. Three other players were limited today. Kendall Fuller was the team’s big free agency signing this year and he has been sideline during training camp with a knee injury for the last few weeks. Fourth round rookie LT Saadhiq Charles has also been sideline for a few weeks(calf), but seems like he’s getting very close to a return. Del Rio mentioned that Thomas Davis Sr. was dinged up yesterday, and today he’s been listed with a calf injury.

The development of QB Dwayne Haskins Jr. is going to be huge for the future of this franchise, and Rivera said every coach he interviewed talked about working with the 2nd-year QB to improve his game. Rivera challenged him this year, and he is comfortable with where Haskins is in the offense right now. Alex Smith has been a great influence on him, and they share a competitive spirit.

The team released an unofficial depth chart yesterday, and a lot of people lost their minds. Rivera gave the yearly reminder that these don’t really mean much, and they are forced to fill them out for the media. He was specifically asked about J.D. McKissic being listed as the starting RB over Antonio Gibson. Rivera said the words no fantasy owner likes to hear, “The RB spot is going to be by committee.” Washington has multiple backs that they feel comfortable with, and they will get their opportunities depending on the formation and the situation.

Injury updates:

Practice:

Dwayne Haskins Jr.:

Alex Smith:

Mike Ditka philosophy:

Running back by committee:

Offensive linemen:

Philadelphia Eagles:

Cancer treatment advice from fellow coaches:

Yesterday’s cancer treatment:

Season opener: