In order to complement Brian Robinson Jr. in the backfield, the Washington Commanders added seasoned running back Austin Ekeler over the offseason.
The goal of the addition was to provide Jayden Daniels, the rookie quarterback, with a change of pace and a receiver out of the backfield. That’s exactly Ekeler’s style, and the main reason he departed the Chargers. He is aware of his advantages, and in Washington, he will be free to utilize them.
Speaking of strength, coach Dan Quinn made a startling disclosure on Tuesday during his daily press conference. He shared his opinions on Ekeler.
“I knew Austin was a really skilled pass-catcher. Quinn remarked, “I probably didn’t realize how strong he is.” You would guess he was a little back, given his size. However, he is a powerful athlete who is perhaps our best player overall, therefore he could play in any position.”
Ekeler can cause a lot of harm in the open field since he is nimble and quick with the ball in his hands. When he gets his offensive opportunities this season, expect to see him break a few tackles because of the kind of strength coach Quinn is referring about.
When the Commanders play the Buccaneers this Sunday in Tampa Bay, we’ll see how much they use Ekeler in the offense.
Graham Barton Is Just “About Business” Before The NFL’s Opening Night.
Graham Barton, a rookie center for the Buccaneers, will play in his first NFL game in less than a week, and he will face a formidable defense in the Commanders.
Barton feels up to the task after participating in his first training camp and the preseason. After practice on Monday, Tampa Bay’s first-round selection talked with Pewter Report about his approach to this week’s game preparation and whether he was nervous.
“Ready To Go” Graham Barton Is Taking On The Commanders
Robert Hainsey and Graham Barton alternated snaps at the start of training camp. He was formally designated as the team’s starting center by the end of it. Even while Barton is aware that he must continue to merit his position and that achieving his goals will require effort, he has made apparent progress.
“Just getting in there at center and competing, building chemistry with the guys, and improving on communication—I’ve definitely come a long way,” Barton remarked. “I feel fantastic because there have been a lot of reps between six weeks ago and now, obviously. I feel prepared to leave. I’m eager to get started on this strategy and prepare for Washington.
It will be a difficult test for the newbie to face the Commanders.
The defensive line of Washington includes Johnny Newton, the team’s second-round choice whom the Bucs almost selected, and two Pro Bowl defensive tackles in Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne. Barton is aware that he will not be taking on two of the league’s top defensive tackles in their prime.
Barton continued, “Obviously, we know where they’re talented at.” “There are two extremely talented players occupying those two interior d-tackle places. We’re excited because [I] think highly of what I’ve seen of them on tape thus far. We’re going to face a special challenge because of that, but I believe we’re prepared. We will work on getting ready over the week and see what we can do on Sunday.
Graham Barton Is Still Working On His Skills And His Bond With Baker Mayfield
Graham Barton will don a genuine suit and play in the first of the Bucs’ hopefully many games as a member of the team in a few days. Barton is eager to see what the future holds after having a strong preseason. He was a little nervous at first, but now he’s relaxed.
“I hope the preseason helped me get over my nerves,” Barton said to Pewter Report. “Now, it’s all about doing business and having fun. putting on a show on Sunday and winning. We believe the game will be fantastic, and we’re prepared for the challenge.
Developing a relationship with Baker Mayfield, the quarterback he will be covering, is crucial to his early success. Barton talked about his bond with No. 6 when asked how he has improved as a pass blocker.
Barton continued, “I’ve had to work on all facets of my game because it’s a different level of football.” “Just keep getting better, keep working on that relationship [with Baker], and learn how to effectively communicate with both Baker and the offensive line.” I’m feeling so confident this week as I continue to grow.
#Bucs HC Todd Bowles on QB Baker Mayfield and C Graham Barton working on their line calls and the collaboration they are building ahead of the season opener. pic.twitter.com/TJN7mjdrBC
— PewterReport 🏴☠️ (@PewterReport) August 25, 2024
During the BE the Ball event hosted by Baker Mayfield in late August, head coach Todd Bowles mentioned the “good” rapport that Mayfield and Barton are developing as the quarterback-center combination.
Does this indicate that Graham Barton is feeling as ready as he will be for this Sunday afternoon’s NFL game?
“We still have a week to prepare for the game, so we have a long way to go,” Barton stated. However, I feel prepared to leave. I think I’m beginning to feel at home at the center. It’s go time now, but these initial few weeks will still be an adjustment phase. The chance to compete, perform to the best of my skills, and ensure that everyone is on the same page excites me.
