As several NFL players released statements about skipping offseason programs over the last few months, Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera was confident most of his players would attend the voluntary offseason workouts.
Ron Rivera says Washington will hold nothing against any players that choose not to come for OTAs, "it's all voluntary." II expect some or most players to attend, and Rivera says he's been in touch with players
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) April 16, 2021
Well, as the next phase of Washington’s offseason kicked off on Monday, Rivera was right as more than 80 players attended. Washington will begin on-field work on Tuesday, per John Keim of ESPN.
Was told more than 80 Washington players showed up for next phase of OTA work this morning. On field work. We will be out there Tuesday to watch; then do zoom interviews.
— John Keim (@john_keim) May 24, 2021
This is huge for Rivera. As more and more players are opting out of the voluntary portion of the offseason, Washington gets close to perfect attendance. That speaks volumes about how these players believe in Rivera and his coaching staff.
In these OTAs, players and coaches can have in-person meetings, and up to 10 practices are allowed. However, there is no live contact allowed. Instead, teams can do 7×7 and 11×11 drills.
This is important for Rivera. Last season, he didn’t get any time with his players in his first season as coach. Everything was virtual. So, for Washington to have this type of turnout for OTAs is a win for the coaching staff.
Sure, championships aren’t won in the offseason or in OTAs, but this is an important time for players and coaches.
