Josh Harris, the owner of the NFL’s Washington Commanders, has been more involved in the team’s management than expected. Owners often like to blame bad decisions on others, such as Commissioner Roger Goodell. This creates a significant potential problem for the team and its employees.
When an owner is a multi-billionaire and runs the team, anyone who wants to keep their job will be searching for clues as to what makes him happy. It’s known as the “calzone effect,” where owners want what they want, and employees must comply.
As for this week’s four-quarterback square dance, it seems that Harris was present at the meetings. He met with quarterbacks at the Scouting Combine and understands the importance of his decision on who will be drafted by his team. While he may try to keep it subtle, once those around him sense his preference, they will go in that direction unless someone is willing to risk their career on going against his wishes.
Last year with Bryce Young in Carolina and 10 years ago with Johnny Manziel in Cleveland (if not for Jerry Jones’ interference), it was clear that whoever the Commanders take will be someone Harris approves of or wants.