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Ron Rivera Presser: “Ryan Fitzpatrick will come in as QB1, but there will be a competition”

Ron Rivera speaks to the media

By Scott Jennings

Ron Rivera spoke to the media today, and it will probably be the last time we hear from him until after the NFL draft which starts 4 weeks from today. Rivera said the Ryan Fitzpatrick will be the #1 QB going into training camp this year, but there will be a competition. He has talked about regretting naming Dwayne Haskins Jr. the starter without a real competition last year, and doesn’t want to make the same mistake this season.

They wanted to get a veteran QB who could not only help the team win, but also help develop the players around him. He mentioned Alex Smith doing a good job of that last season, and that’s something they think Fitzpatrick can do for them this season. Rivera didn’t rule out adding a young QB this year, but it will depend on how the draft plays out. Washington currently holds the #19 overall pick this year, but there are expected to be 4-5 QBs that could get drafted before they’re on the clock. Rivera said you can build the team before getting your QB of the future, but you never know until the opportunity is available.

The team was planning on taking a wait and see position in free agency this year, but saw slow markets developing at CB and WR. This allowed them to get William Jackson III and Curtis Samuel, two players they liked, but didn’t think they would be able to sign due to the cost. Then in the next wave they were able to add players like Darryl Roberts and Adam Humphries to address the slot positions. They will continue to monitor free agency before and after the draft to see if there are players that fit their needs.

Rivera talked about two players on the offensive line that could play a big role on the team now and in the future. The team has not talked to Brandon Scherff who received the franchise tag again this season. They still want to sign him to a long-term deal, but there have been no new talks since he got tagged. Saahdiq Charles’ rookie season was lost due to injuries, but Rivera sees him at the facility rehabbing, and said he looks good. They are not sure if he will play guard or tackle when he is ready to play, but they liked his versatility coming out of LSU, and will play him where he best fits the team.

William Jackson III was a big signing this offseason, and helps replace the loss of Ronald Darby who signed a 3-year deal with the Broncos after his “prove-it” season was successful in Washington. The coaches weren’t sure if he would be a fit in their defense because he’s so good at man coverage. After watching more tape those concerns disappeared, and the coaches will now be able to play more man coverage with the players they have.

Ryan Fitzpatrick:

Veteran QB:

Drafting a QB:

QB of the future:

New WRs:

Martin Mayhew:

Free Agency:

Next wave of free agency:

Brandon Scherff:

Saahdiq Charles:

William Jackson III:

COVID-19 vaccination:

Virtual offseason:

17 game schedule:

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