Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera took some criticism earlier this year with his “roster-building” comments.
Buy Commanders TicketsRon Rivera: "We are roster building for the first time and feel really good about what we're able to do."
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 28, 2023
As often happens, many took a snipper of what Rivera said and turned it into something else. What Rivera was trying to say, with Sam Howell at quarterback — a young passer on a rookie contract — the Commanders could address other positions, such as re-signing their multiple first-round picks along the defensive line.
Of course, for that strategy to work, Howell must be successful. Howell has just one NFL start under his belt but has looked the part thus far with new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.
Rivera has looked noticeably relaxed this summer, often smiling and joking with reporters. That’s what happens when Rivera can focus only on football for the first time in his tenure as Washington’s coach.
How does Rivera feel about the 2023 Commanders?
“I think it’s pretty good,” Rivera said when asked about the roster. “I really do. I think we’re pretty solidified on where we are as a defense. I like the guys up front. I think our front line is solid. It’s sound. We were the number three defense last year.”
Of course, Rivera would start with Washington’s defensive line. The Commanders kept 11 defensive linemen on their 53-man roster, in part because of their outstanding depth on the edge and the interior.
Rivera likes the offensive line depth.
“Our offensive line, we feel, has really come together nicely,” he said. “We’ve got decent depth there. It’s a little untried because it’s young, but it’s a young group, and we feel good that they’ll continue to grow and get better.”
Rivera also praised the skill positions, specifically wide receiver, naming Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, Curtis Samuel, Dyami Brown and Byron Pringle.
Rivera should feel good about the 2023 roster. The Commanders have a solid roster, but ultimately everything is dependent upon Howell and the offensive line.
