Washington Commanders prepare rookies for tough tests in season’s closing stretch
The Washington Commanders are approaching the final four games of the season with a dual focus: striving for victories while also assessing young talent poised for significant roles in the future. With veteran tight end Zach Ertz sidelined for the remainder of the year due to injury, the team is shifting gears, looking to a group of younger tight ends who have shown promise but need to prove themselves further.
Evolving Objectives
Head coach Dan Quinn emphasizes that this final stretch is not merely a chance for the team to play out the string. Instead, he sees it as an opportunity to evaluate talent and establish foundational pieces for future success. “I think I don’t want to do an end-of-year assessment, you know, as we’re going this week, but it’s really important over the next weeks to determine what we can accomplish,” Quinn remarked. He underscored the significance of both this year’s rookie class and last year’s players making their mark during these critical games.
Elevating the Tight End Position
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury echoes Quinn’s sentiments, stressing that although the season’s championship aspirations may have faded, there are still significant developments to be made. The focus shifts to tight ends John Bates, Ben Sinnott, and Colson Yankoff, who will receive increased opportunities now that Ertz is unavailable. Kingsbury noted, “It’s really critical for them to continue to develop and progress. They have been in the roles we’ve asked them to fill, but with a guy like Zach, you don’t take him off the field in critical situations.”
His hope is that the younger players will seize their chances to contribute effectively when called upon. “We want to see them make the play, do the right thing, and show poise,” he added.
Rookies in the Spotlight
Among those rookies is offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr., who faces a significant challenge as he prepares to go up against the formidable defenses within the NFC East for the first time. The intensity of division rivalries is a stark contrast to earlier in the season when his first two divisional games were spaced out. “It adds value,” Quinn explained, reflecting on the learning curve of competing against familiar opponents. “A player learns, ‘Okay, I’m starting to get what division means, why they say you know each other so well.’”
As Conerly and his fellow rookies gear up for these demanding matchups, they have a chance to prove themselves in a division known for its fierce competition. The upcoming games serve as a trial by fire, offering a unique opportunity for growth and development as they navigate the challenges of NFL play.
Looking Ahead
For the Commanders, the focus on evaluating talent amidst the backdrop of a challenging season is essential. There is an understanding that while the immediate goal of a championship may not be within reach, the foundation for a competitive future must be laid now. The journey through these final games will be pivotal in shaping the roster and setting the stage for what lies ahead.
