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 all the controversy makes it harder for the players to focus on football.
“I think that’s tough for us as players,” McLaurin said. “Obviously, with social media and everything that’s out there, you see what’s going on.”
Head coach Ron Rivera is attempting to keep his players positive.
“I try not to mention it,” Rivera said Wednesday. “I talk about play on the field, what we’re trying to do — you know, try to relay the positive side of what’s happening for us on the field.”
Irsay’s assertion that “there’s merit” to removing Snyder as owner of the Commanders has certainly 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 just 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 know what’s going on. But at the same time, how are you going to let it affect what’s going on on the field? I think as players, that’s what we can control.”