Its become the popular train of thought that trial by fire is the best way for a young quarterback to learn. And, while there certainly are cases that support that, there's also plenty of evidence to the contrary.
Redskins Super Bowl and MVP-winning quarterback Joe Theismann doesn't buy into that thought. Not when it comes to Dwayne Haskins.
Theismann said on “Pollin and Loverro” on 106.7 The Fan this weekend that starting Haskins Week 1 of the regular season would be “a formula for disaster” for Washington.
The former Redskins great argued instead that Case Keenum should be the team’s starting quarterback for 2019.
“To me, the best scenario for Dwayne would be this — is to sit this year, Case plays, Colt (McCoy) comes back, is healthy enough to be able to be in competition and/or a part of the ball club … and give Dwayne a chance to process everything,” Theismann said.
Another argument against starting Haskins right away: The Redskins play four 2018 playoff teams in the first five weeks of the season, the Eagles, Cowboys, Bears, and Patriots.
“I think the young man is our future, and let’s protect the future,” he said.
Earlier this offseason, Theismann made headlines for giving Haskins his blessing to wear a No. 7 jersey, the first Redskins player since Theismann to do so. The number was not officially retired, but no one had touched it since Theismann retired from the NFL in 1985.
Coach Jay Gruden is hoping to keep his job past this season, which may be another factor leading to starting a veteran over the rookie.
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