Antonio Brown working out with Dwayne Haskins sparked rumors and speculation of a possible signing with the Redskins. Wednesday, head coach Ron Rivera addressed the possibility of signing Brown.
Rivera told local reporters during a Zoom conference he wants to see what the Redskins have in their young wide receivers before considering adding Brown.
The Redskins have the gift and curse of having a talented but young core at wide receiver. Terry McLaurin, Kelvin Harmon and Steven Sims Jr. are expected to top the wideouts’ depth chart. However, each will be entering their second season as a pro.
“If you bring in a veteran player, you’re going to stunt the growth of someone young,” Ron Rivera added per Rhiannon Walker of the Athletic.
McLaurin had a breakout rookie campaign. He led the Redskins in receptions (58), receiving yards (919) and total touchdowns (7). Harmon and Sims struggled to adjust with the carousel at quarterback. But, both settled in as Dwayne Haskins assumed the starting quarterback position midway through season.
Washington also drafted potential steal Antonio Gandy-Golden in the fifth round of this year’s NFL Draft.
OTA’s and mini-camp practices halted by the coronavirus pandemic, stunting their progression. Thus, it will be hard for the incoming coaching staff led by Rivera to get a true first-impression and assessment where each young receiver stands.
Antonio Brown has been a free agent since being released by the New England Patriots following Week 2 of last season. Teams have stayed clear of signing Brown with concerns about chemistry and off-the-field issues.
The Redskins’ young wide receivers have pundits hesitant to measure their stature. Yet, their potential is what makes the collective group intriguing. With Haskins entering his second year as well, the Redskins could have something special brewing. Right now, adding Brown may be more detrimental than helpful long-term for Washington.
