Fans believe Commanders signing QB Jeff Driskel to be “April Fools” joke

Josh Harris, the new owner of the Washington Commanders, aims for a cultural overhaul post-acquisition. The team went through a tough season with a 4-13 record, but new owner group is resolute in reshaping its ethos.

With the new season looming, the Commanders swiftly revamped their roster. They recently signed G Nick Allegretti from the Kansas City Chiefs and also picked Austin Ekeler from the Los Angeles Chargers. Now, they brought a change in the quarterback room by signing Jeff Driskel.

Commanders sign Jeff Driskel

The Commanders have bolstered their quarterback roster by signing Jeff Driskel, likely as a third-string quarterback behind Marcus Mariota and a potential draft pick. Driskel, who spent most of last season on the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad, joins the Commanders after a stint with the Cleveland Browns.

The signal-caller’s chances of making the final roster are uncertain, but his experience could prove valuable during the offseason program and training camp. With only one career win as a starting quarterback, his role may primarily be as a depth option unless he can outshine competitors like Jake Fromm for the third quarterback position.

The veteran showcased glimpses of his potential during his brief start for the Browns in Week 18 of the previous season. He completed 13 of 26 passes for 166 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.

The Louisiana Tech/Florida product has recorded 2,394 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 24 games with 12 starts throughout his career. He also proved his ability to contribute as a rusher by amassing 417 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. His arrival adds depth to the Commanders quarterback room and provides competition for roster spots.

Fans react to Jeff Driskel signing

The Commanders’ recent signing of Jeff Driskel has stirred a range of reactions among fans. With General Manager Adam Peters having prior familiarity with Driskel from their time together with the San Francisco 49ers, some speculated on the potential reunion’s benefits. However, the majority of fans expressed disappointment and skepticism.

For some fans, the quarterback’s signing seemed like an April Fools’ Day prank gone wrong.

Critics of the signing voiced their disappointment, feeling that the team should focus on other priorities, such as retaining or acquiring talent at different positions. Some even slammed them for parting ways with Sam Howell.

The Commanders will now go in with 4-6 QBs. They will most likely have 3-4 between the team and the practice squad come September. With the new emergency QB and practice squad rules teams will carry more, albeit sine fans found consecutive signings unreasonable.

The Commanders hold nine picks in the draft, including two second-rounders among 6 in the top 100. Some claimed they should have draft new QBs instead if signing Jeff Driskel.

Few fans even linked the new deal with the potential draft of J.J. McCarthy to the Commanders.

What’s your take on Driskel’s signing? Do you think that it was a wise move?