As the Washington Commanders concluded their second phase Wednesday of Organized Team Activities (OTAs), cornerback Kendall Fuller was one of several players to speak with the media.
Regarding the slow start by the defense in the 2021 season, Fuller said they are attempting to take advantage of every day (in OTAs) in trying to learn how defensive backs see coverage differently.
The former Virginia Tech defensive back said he noticed that Carson Wentz comes to the DBs asking questions regarding coverage. Wentz’s arm strength and football intellect have already impressed Fuller, as well as Wentz clearly working to get better each day.
Fuller is already impressed with receiver Jahan Dotson as well. He alluded to his talent, his comfort, his confidence, saying it is clear he was drafted in the first round for a reason.
Regarding politics, Fuller said the players are free to speak and do speak their opinions openly with one another, “I think that is how we grow; everyone being able to express how they feel about things.”
The 6-year NFL veteran was then asked directly regarding defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio’s tweet concerning the multiple riots in the summer of 2020 and the January 6 “dust-up” at the Capitol building. (In fairness, Del Rio did later apologize saying he should not have referred to it as a ‘dust-up’.) “I don’t know what he tweeted. If there is any feeling I have toward what he tweeted, I will definitely go express it with him. But I am not aware of anything that is on Twitter.”
When that did not satisfy, another reporter then voiced, “I am just going to read that to you,” hoping that Fuller hearing it in that moment, would then feel the need to respond to the press. However, Fuller didn’t take the bait. He showed he is not easily manipulated when put on the spot. Fuller did then respond, “I don’t have a reaction right now. Like I said, if I have a reaction towards something, I will express that with him.”
Good for Kendall Fuller. It’s important for all players to understand that just because someone in the press asks you to comment on a particular matter, does not mean that you are forced to offer a comment at that very moment, without having had time to think on the matter.
The press is not your boss nor your superior. They can ask whatever they want, but you have the freedom in those moments to talk about what you feel would be the right thing to say in that split second.
Kendall Fuller did the right thing. If he has an issue with Jack Del Rio (or anyone else in the organization) he should take it up with that individual privately.