Haskins: ‘It's a growing process'

It was the long expected and smart thing to do – rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins is a starter for the rest of the season. Now, let’s see what he does with it in regards to next season.

- Rick Snider

“We’ve got a lot of confidence in Dwayne,” coach Bill Callahan said. “He’s worked hard, he’s smart, he studies, he prepares, so this will be a great opportunity for him going forward.”

It’s a great opportunity for the first-rounder to show at least a spark that can grow over coming years. It’s also a great opportunity for the team to learn whether Haskins is a bust and the Redskins need to draft another passer next season.

Seven games isn’t a true test, but it’s a solid snapshot of potential.

“No. 1 – progress,” said Callahan of expectations. “We want to see a consistent progression in his play. We want to expand the playbook. I think we’ll do that going forward – how much, we’ll see.”

That’s fine with Haskins. So far it has been a rough start with too many bad interceptions, inconsistent mechanics and occasional strong throws. But touchdowns evaded Washington three straight games and the continued bad losses reflect poorly on everyone.

“Being a young guy, being a rookie quarterback in the NFL, it’s going to be very challenging,” Haskins said, “but to know that [Callahan] supports me and wants to rally behind me and do everything possible to help me get this team to win some games . . . that meant a lot.”