The Washington Football Team suffered their second consecutive defeat on Sunday, falling to the Carolina Panthers, 20-13. Washington quarterback Dwayne Haskins was benched in the fourth quarter of the loss, with backup QB Taylor Heinicke taking over.
There was some drama after the game when it appeared as if Haskins had ducked out of media obligations following his benching, but apparently he was told he could go home. The embattled quarterback then did a Zoom press conference from his home.
Haskins was asked to comment about Washington coach Ron Rivera's decision to drop him against the Panthers, and the 23-year-old quarterback admitted that it was a tough pill for him to swallow:
“Definitely the hardest week of my life. I just want to bounce back and move forward and pray and get my life together,” Haskins said, via John Keim of ESPN. “I can't really put into words how I'm feeling right now.”
This rough performance came at the end of a whirlwind week. Haskins was at the center of a scandal when photos surfaced online of him partying maskless at a club. He apologized and got another start with Alex Smith sidelined.
However, Haskins completed just 14-of-28 passes on Sunday for 154 yards before being yanked. The former Ohio State standout also logged two interceptions in what turned out to be another forgettable evening for him.
Haskins was quick to accept his shortcomings, as he expressed his desire to get another shot at being Washington's starting QB:
“You sign up for this job, so it is what it is,” said Haskins, who spoke to reporters from his home after Sunday's loss. “Sometimes being human isn't enough. You've got to own up to your responsibilities and mistakes and put your best foot forward and pray for an opportunity. … You never know when you'll get another one.”
Washington is now tied atop the NFC East with the Dallas Cowboys, though the tiebreaker is in their favor. A victory over the Philadelphia Eagles would give Washington the division, but it's unclear who will be under center. While Smith will get the call if he's healthy, it's not a definite that he'll be ready to go.
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