The Washington Commanders are busy looking for a quarterback at this week’s NFL combine. Washington’s pursuit of Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson ended this week when the Seahawks reportedly turned down the Commanders’ offer of “multiple” first-round picks.
While not landing Wilson or Aaron Rodgers is undoubtedly disappointing for Rivera, he knew entering the offseason it would be difficult to pry Wilson or Rodgers away from their respective teams. One, the player must want to come to Washington. Secondly, why would you trade an elite passer unless the relationship was untenable?
That means Washington is likely to sign a veteran in free agency and look toward the 2022 NFL draft for its future quarterback. There is always Deshaun Watson, but his legal issues present a problem for Washington. As for Jimmy Garoppolo, no thanks.
Rivera and Washington have met with multiple questions at this week’s NFL combine. Sure, the meetings are short, but it gives you enough time to get a feel for the player and use one of your pre-draft visits on him.
One quarterback linked to Washington frequently is Liberty’s Malik Willis. Willis put on a show in passing drills and also made an impression off the field. But it was during his interviews that he stood out the most.
In an interview with Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post, Rivera raved about his chat with Willis, bringing up the franchise quarterback he coached for nine years.
“Malik wanted to stand up when we put on the tape and look and point,” Rivera said. “You could see how animated he got: ‘Watch me use my eyes. Watch me use my eyes!’ Even though he’s raw, you know he understands the concepts. And when I saw that, it reminded me of Cam Newton because that’s one thing — Cam understood the concepts.”
Willis makes sense for Washington, especially if the Commanders sign a veteran. Most analysts believe Willis should “redshirt” his rookie season. However, if you draft him, why not tailor your playbook to him?
Rivera clearly likes Willis, and if you’re looking for the quarterback with the highest upside, then Willis should be your guy.