It wasn't a total surprise, but Jay Gruden has made it official that Dwayne Haskins will begin his career backing up Case Keenum under center. The Redskins selected Haskins with the No. 15 overall pick this past April and he arrived in Washington behind a pair of veterans in Keenum and Colt McCoy.
Jay Gruden confirms the expected: Case Keenum to start for the #Redskins
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 25, 2019
Haskins has flashed at times this preseason following some struggles in the opener against Cleveland. He connected with Robert Davis for a pretty 55-yard touchdown strike against the Bengals on Aug. 15. Haskins has also flashed a little bit of mobility at times, though he clearly isn't going to wow anyone with his blazing speed.
Gruden says Keenum is the guy as long as he produces. Not looking at it as a week to week competition with Haskins moving forward. #redskins
— Kareem Copeland (@kareemcopeland) August 25, 2019
The Redskins are still missing starting left tackle Trent Williams, and it remains to be seen if the All-Pro left tackle has any intention of coming back. The offensive line has been pretty spotty this pre-season in Williams' absence. Haskins has struggled at times with his reads and taken a number of sacks, but the arm talent has been apparent on several throws.
McCoy was expected to compete for the starting role, but he's still recovering from multiple offseason surgeries to his right leg. For now, the job belongs to Keenum and it remains to be seen how and when Haskins may be eased into the role.
The Redskins open the season on Sept. 8 against a stout Philadelphia defensive front.
