‘I like the direction we’re headed’

Ron Rivera’s response to these statements from Chase Young was anything but confrontational. Instead, Rivera shifted the conversation back to a positive perspective when asked about Young’s comments on Wednesday.

“First and foremost, I’m excited about our football team and the direction we’re headed. I believe we’re on the right path and culturally it’s a solid place,” Rivera told reporters. “We’re still learning and growing, especially with our young quarterback’s development. Despite Chase’s comments, I genuinely appreciate him and wish him the best in San Francisco.”

Rivera’s positive outlook on the Washington football team, primarily due to quarterback Sam Howell’s impressive performance, is a significant factor. Howell currently ranks second in the NFL in passing yards with 2,471 and has delivered back-to-back 300-plus passing yard performances in the team’s recent matches.

Rivera’s repeated praise of Howell as a long-term option for the team is a testament to his confidence in the quarterback’s abilities. This consistency in Rivera’s comments underscores his belief in Howell’s potential to lead the team.

While Rivera expresses admiration for Howell, he also acknowledges that the team’s success is crucial for his own job security. Washington’s competitiveness in the challenging NFC East will determine Rivera’s future with the team, making Howell’s performances even more critical.

With Washington currently holding a 4-5 record, Rivera and the team have the opportunity to prove themselves and ascend in the division standings. Rivera is fully aware of the importance of this goal in the remaining games of the season.

“Our primary focus is to remain competitive and strive for victories. We’ve undergone significant changes, and our objective is to come together as a team and win football games,” emphasized Rivera. “Ultimately, it’s about winning, and that’s what truly matters as we move forward.”

Rivera’s use of the term “audition” is a candid acknowledgment of the precarious nature of his coaching position in 2023. With new ownership in place, Rivera knows he must demonstrate his worthiness of leading the team in 2024.

At 4-5, the jury is still deliberating Rivera’s coaching performance. However, Rivera’s confidence is bolstered by the presence of Sam Howell as the team’s quarterback.

“This team’s focus is on the development and growth of our quarterback, Sam Howell, and the offense,” Rivera articulated. “Our priority is continuous improvement, both offensively and defensively, and I genuinely believe that the best is yet to come for us as a football team.”