Washington Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins has finally been handed the keys to the offense heading into the final stretch of the 2019 NFL season. As a result, quarterback Alex Smith finds himself thrust into the role of a mentor now more than ever.
Haskins made his first career start in the 34-17 loss to the New York Jets in Week 11. Smith provided some insight on the advice he gave to the rookie, via Zach Selby of the team's official website:
“This has always been my message to Dwayne: ‘I think you need to focus on what is really important, and that’s playing well,’” Smith said. “Preparing himself to go play, don’t worry about the rest of the noise. In fact, eliminate it. Try to eliminate as much of the outside noise as possible. Because all your teammates really care about is going out and executing.”
It is encouraging to see that Smith is taking Haskins under his win. Although he is still unable to play due to the devastating leg injury he suffered a year ago, he is still finding ways to help this franchise get going in the right direction. Of course, this begins with helping their first-round pick find his footing.
Smith knows full well about the trials and tribulations that come with trying to become a bonafide starter in the NFL. Like Haskins, he faced high expectations as the former No. 1 overall pick and took a few years before he was finally able to find his rhythm.
Haskins will surely endure some growing pain as he gets comfortable under center. Fortunately, having an experienced veteran like Smith around should pay huge dividends for his development.
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