ESPN recently ranked all 32 NFL teams as belonging to eight separate categories. There were categories such as “time for a major rebuild,” or the other end of the spectrum, “still serious contenders.”
Well, where was the Washington Football Team?
Stuck in quarterback purgatory. Yes, that was one of the eight categories ESPN listed to describe where Washington resided.
Washington was one of six teams “stuck in QB purgatory” The others included the Panthers, Broncos, Browns, Saints and Eagles. Being on this list means you have a solid roster that could be catapulted into a perennial winner if you find the right quarterback.
The Browns are on the list despite drafting Baker Mayfield No. 1 overall back in 2018. The Saints lost future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees after 2020 and head coach Sean Payton after the 2021 season.
The inclusion of those two teams shows you how quickly you can fall into this category.
Here’s how ESPN described Washington entering the offseason:
Priorities this offseason: Situate the quarterback position long term. Taylor Heinicke played admirably in 2021, but coach Ron Rivera has gone through two seasons without stability at the position. It’s time. No more bridge options. Identify your guy.
Interior offensive line will be an issue since Brandon Scherff — coming off two franchise tags — will likely command $20 million per year in free agency. Replenishing the line is crucial. And signing wide receiver Terry McLaurin to an extension would be a prudent move. He has been the team’s most reliable player for three seasons.
Lastly, I’d like to see Washington motivate Chase Young to unleash havoc in Year 3. He came out flat this season before his knee injury, but he belongs up there with Nick Bosa and other top young pass-rushers, and he needs to show it.
Washinton head coach Ron Rivera is busy trying to acquire a veteran stud at quarterback. But landing Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, or Deshaun Watson likely isn’t happening. That means Washington should turn its full attention to the 2022 NFL draft to find its future starter.
Taylor Heinicke wasn’t terrible in 2021. He proved he’s a backup — and a competent backup. There’s nothing wrong with that, considering where Heinicke in Nov. 2020. However, for Washington to take the next step, it must solve the most important position in sports.