Redskins players react to changes, Bruce Allen firing

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It was a season of change in Washington.

The Washington Redskins have made a few major changes this season: After an 0-5 start, head coach Jay Gruden was fired after five years at the helm. And after a 3-13 finish, team president Bruce Allen was fired by owner Daniel Snyder after 10 years with the organization.
With the season over the players were left to clean out their lockers and adjust to the new reality. Here is how they reacted to the news of Allen's firing and the possible hiring of Ron Rivera as the next head coach.
Rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins had a few things to say:

Dwayne Haskins says he hopes Kevin O’Connell stays. Has enjoyed working with him.

— michael phillips (@michaelpRTD) December 30, 2019

And he had some advice on what the Redskins should do with the No. 2 overall pick:

Haskins said all that needs to be said about Chase Young is “Chase Young.”Called him a game-wrecker. Loves him.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

Quarterback Alex Smith, who the Redskins added via a trade before the 2018 season, said seeing people lose their job is hard.

#Redskins QB Alex Smith admits that because of his injury, he feels partially responsible for Bruce Allen & others getting fired. Incredibly candid last 5 minutes. @SInow @1067theFan @lockedredskins pic.twitter.com/dFKFjAMGIg

— Chris Russell (@Russellmania621) December 30, 2019

Veteran quarterback Case Keenum's reaction: Culture.

More Keenum: "I'm pointing the finger at myself. I need to get better, there's certain things I need to do better from a quarterback standpoint, from a leadership standpoint. I'll be better, and we'll move forward."He is a free agent after his one year in Washington.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

Asked about Redskins culture, veteran quarterback Case Keenum said “I think there are some cultural things that need to be addressed.”

— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) December 30, 2019

Defensive end Ryan Kerrigan felt bad for Allen.

Ryan Kerrigan on Bruce Allen: “You hate to see see anyone lose their jobs. He was one of the guys who brought me here. It’s always a weird day.”

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

And reflected on the possible hiring of Rivera and his own future.

Kerrigan: “I want to be here. I love Washington DC. I love the Redskins. I want to be here.”Says he’ll let his agent handle the rest, but he’s made it clear he wants to be here.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

Running back Adrian Peterson said he liked the locker room culture in his second season with the team.

Peterson: “Bill came in and did an incredible job with the circumstances he was dealt. We’ll see what moves they continue to make.”Asked next about Rivera he says he’s heard nothing but great things about him.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

Adrian Peterson on Bruce Allen departure: “It’s unfortunate. But that’s how it goes. This is a business.”

— Brian McNally (@bmcnally14) December 30, 2019

Brandon Scherff, who will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, gave an injury update.

Brandon Scherff said he's facing a 5-month recovery period on his shoulder following surgery.The bigger story in these parts is whether the 2020 free agent wants back. "Of course. This is where I've been for five years. I'd love to finish my career out here."

— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) December 30, 2019

Brandon Scherff says he appreciates Bruce Allen for bringing him to the Redskins. He’s not sure on his future with the team but “of course” he wants to return.

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) December 30, 2019

And veteran defensive back Josh Norman let music do the talking:

Josh Norman is asked into the locker room, a scrum formed and he put his speaker up and played @thegreatkhalid’s ‘Better.’ The lyrics including, “nothing feels better than this.”

— Rhiannon Walker (@InstantRHIplay) December 30, 2019

Josh Norman just letting Better play on repeat pic.twitter.com/ABPHgL6Q7N

— Rhiannon Walker (@InstantRHIplay) December 30, 2019

Running back Derrius Guice provided an injury update.

I asked Guice about Bruce Allen’s firing. The young running back said football is a tough business and that he appreciated Allen bringing him to the Redskins organization.

— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) December 30, 2019

Pro Bowl punter Tress Way remembered Allen as the person who gave him a shot.

Tress Way: Bruce was the one that gave me a shot. I’m grateful to him. As for the questions or not the pieces are here! Thats a no brainer. We just need to get over the hump. #httr #redskins @NBCSWashington

— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) December 30, 2019

Tight end Jordan Reed, who missed the 2019 season due to a concussion, was in the building, but unavliable to speak.

Great to see Jordan Reed in the building. Had a smile on his face. Great to see him healthy. Not gonna talk, but here to take his physical and clean out.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

Quarterback Colt McCoy was not in Ashburn on Monday as he left for the offseason after the game in Dallas.

Colt McCoy’s licker is completely empty. Took his name plate and everything. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie’s is the same.

— Craig Hoffman (@CraigHoffman) December 30, 2019

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