Quarterback Dwayne Haskins grew up a New York Giants fans and he was certain they would select him No. 2 overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, fulfilling a boyhood dream to not only play at the NFL, but to do so as a member of his favorite team.
That did not come to pass however, as the Giants selected Duke quarterback Daniel Jones instead — a decision that did not sit well with Haskins initially.
“I’m more motivated than ever, there’s a bigger chip on my shoulder, the league done messed up,” Haskins told reporters after the draft. “I’m right down the street, so we’re going to do it right this time. So it’s crazy.
“I’m just getting ready to play football. There will probably be the biggest chip on my shoulder there’s ever been.”
But nearly 16 weeks into his NFL career, Haskins has softened his tone on the Giants and the snub, telling the New York Post on Saturday that he’s essentially over it.
“I was more so excited about fulfilling my dream of being an NFL draft choice,” Haskins said. “That night’s over. You can’t fault them for the decision they make. I can just be grateful to the Redskins for picking me.”
That’s an impressive maturation for Haskins over a short time, although it’s clear why he felt the need to play with a chip initially. The Giants had visited with him multiple times and there were strong indications they would select him.
But that’s not how history played out and instead, on Sunday, Haskins will start against the Giants for the first time.
