OTA’s are optional, so many fans ask, “What is the big deal, anyway?”
Former Washington tight end Logan Paulsen who has begun working as an analyst for the Washington Commanders is understandably tempted to soft-pedal his analysis regarding Commanders players. One can understand why he would not want to unnecessarily upset any current Commanders via his analysis.
Yet, Paulsen as a guest on the “Grant and Danny” Tuesday show on 106.7 The Fan, did not hold back regarding why OTA’s are important for the Commanders.
“This (OTAs) is really an important foundation piece of your offseason. This is the first time you get your installs laid out for you. Then they reinforce that information for you when you get to training camp. It’s a very pivotal opportunity to learn what your defensive philosophy is, what your coaches want you to do, how they are communicating.”
“I know Chase (Young) is hurt. I am kind of biased here, I have to say that every time I talk about OTAs. This was the time of year I saw the best-pronounced growth of my career because I had the most opportunity to be around the film and to get reps.”
“For a guy that had a slow start last year, it’s invariable that you can just check off and say, ‘I am taking my time, studying making sure I am prepped for this season’.”
“I understand you were doing your rehab, you are in Colorado doing whatever you were doing. But I also think it is important you get your mind right in preparation for this season.”
“In the court of public opinion, I think this is something that should get checked off of the list. It is important to show the fans, show the coaches that football is something that is important to you.”
“I played with guys who missed OTAs, but they had accumulated enough credit to their names. (They accumulated) enough professionalism for me to know that they were going to be ready to go when the season starts.”
“Chase might disagree with me and if he does, more power to him. He is a grown man he is entitled to have his own opinion. But in my opinion, he has not shown that he has warranted this luxury of missing OTAs, yet.”
“When you start being very productive, when you start having double-digit sacks, when you are in contention for a Pro Bowl, then we can talk about you maybe not coming to OTAs. But it is a pivotal part of the learning process, you need to be here.”
“For a guy that hasn’t been here, in my estimation, and the staff may feel differently, but in my estimation, if you have not yet earned that right, then he should be here. And I felt that way when I played with some guys (who did not attend OTAs.”
Paulsen then pointed out that former Atlanta Falcons teammates Matt Ryan and Julio Jones missed some time in OTAs but he was fully confident they would be prepared and ready to go during the regular season, because of their body of work.
“Again, I know there are going to be people who disagree with me, but I don’t feel Chase has earned that luxury, as of yet. So, that is why I would want him here.”
Paulsen offered much more over the next several minutes. See the link above.