The Washington Football Team worked out a deal with the NFL to allow Dwayne Haskins to practice with the team, according to JP Finlay of NBC Sports. Washington head coach Ron Rivera will provide an update on the situation following practice.
Additionally, Haskins will be allowed to join team meetings virtually.
Haskins took snaps with the first team offense during the media availability session. An injured Alex Smith was working off to the side tossing around the football, according to multiple reports. Recently-signed Taylor Heinicke also took some first-team reps.
Haskins violated the league’s COVID-19 protocols by partying with strippers without wearing a mask Sunday evening following Washington’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks. A game in which Haskins started in place of the injured Smith.
Photos surfaced on Monday of Haskins partying. The team has since disciplined the quarterback after he met with Rivera and issued a public apology to the team.
Some have called for a variety of disciplinary actions, including fine, suspension or release of Haskins. However, the team won’t release him for his second violation of COVID-19 protocols this season. It appears an immediate suspension may be out of the question as well.
No suspension may be a result of the team needing Haskins to start this week against the Carolina Panthers with a chance to clinch their first NFC East division title since 2015.
Smith is nursing a right calf strain and missed last week’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Haskins threw for 295 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in his place.
Haskins started the first four games of the season before being benched for poor play along with poor study and practice habits. After getting his first start since Week 4, Haskins has drawn the ire of his team and fans alike due to his irresponsible decision.
Despite the outcries of casting him aside, the fact remains Washington may need him start under center Sunday with their playoff hopes on the line.
