Commanders Camp: QB Battle Plan Could Include Joint Practices with NFL Foe

Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera met with media, and from the sounds of things joint practices could be in the cards this preseason.

Training camp is perhaps the most crucial part of the Washington Commanders' season. 

And this training camp will be more important than others because there appears to be a true quarterback battle on the horizon - maybe a reason for a big change in plans.

That change, said coach Ron Rivera while in Phoenix for the NFL's league meeting? Joint practices with another team.

“One thing we are hoping to do is to work with one of the teams that we end up getting as a preseason game partner,” Rivera said. “We would love to do that because it creates the kind of opportunity to get more in-depth. So well see how it all goes.”

What does Washington being involved in joint practices ahead of one of their preseason games this season accomplish?

Joint practices are often desired by NFL teams because they provide an opportunity to work against a live opponent that will come out each day looking to learn and adjust from what happened the day prior. 

And of course, there's the element of having an opponent you don't particularly care about having a good day of practice, and vice versa. 

Coaches tend to enjoy them because the practices are more competitive, but still under the rules that protect players, especially the quarterbacks.

And maybe additional work is even more important this year for the Commanders because of the looming competition between quarterbacks Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett.

“I think it's open right now, I really do," Rivera said of the starting quarterback job, re-emphasizing Howell isn't being handed the keys to the franchise. "All I said was that Sam [Howell] was going to get the first crack. I didn’t say that Sam was the guy. He’s going to have to come in and earn it. And if Jacoby [Brissett] comes through and earns it, I'll play Jacoby. I’m going to play that guy that we believe at the end of the day gives us the best chance at winning football games.”

Controlling snaps and looks each quarterback receives becomes more and more complicated during in-game scenarios. 

Rivera can't guarantee each guy will get red zone work or time in a two-minute drill. 

But joint practices offer more control. 

And let's be honest, they're more enjoyable for Washington fans looking to see competitive practices during training camp visits as well.

Find David Harrison on the Locked On Commanders podcast or text him directly at (202) 760-2188.

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