The 2022 campaign has been anything but calm for the Washington Commanders. Owner Daniel Snyder’s skeletons have long since exited the metaphorical closet.
Further, a recent Washington Post report makes it clear that Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay’s recent comments about potentially removing Snyder from his ownership position have distracted Washington’s players.
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin acknowledged as much, saying that each one the controversy makes it harder for the players to give attention to football.
“I feel that’s tough for us as players,” McLaurin said. “Obviously, with social media and every part that’s on the market, you see what’s happening.”
Head coach Ron Rivera is attempting to maintain his players positive.
“I try not to say it,” Rivera said Wednesday. “I discuss play on the sphere, what we’re attempting to do — you realize, attempt to relay the positive side of what’s happening for us on the sphere.”
Irsay’s assertion that “there’s merit” to removing Snyder as owner of the Commanders has actually sent shockwaves throughout the NFL.
While nothing further has developed, McLaurin said that he and teammates are committed to playing effectively despite the turmoil.
“It’s only a matter of how much you let that stuff seep in, how much you give credence to that,” McLaurin said. “None of us are dumb. We all know what’s happening. But at the identical time, how are you going to let it affect what’s happening on the sphere? I feel as players, that’s what we are able to control.”