Washington demotes Haskins to 3rd string, Kyle Allen to start Week 5

The Washington Football Team is making a change at quarterback ahead of Week 5, as Kyle Allen will start against the Los Angeles Rams, the club announced Wednesday.

Dwayne Haskins, who Washington selected 15th overall last year, is demoted to third string, as veteran Alex Smith will be Allen's backup Sunday.

Haskins started just 11 games since entering the league but has failed to find consistency. He owns a 3-8 career record with 11 touchdowns to 10 interceptions, completing just under 60% of his passes.

The former Ohio State passer had just one full season of starting experience in college before declaring for the NFL Draft. He was a first-team All-Big Ten selection in his final season with the Buckeyes, winning Rose Bowl MVP.

Allen has experience under head coach Ron Rivera, starting 12 games for the Carolina Panthers last year. The former undrafted free agent amassed 3,322 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions in 2019.

Washington acquired Allen for a fifth-round pick this offseason after Rivera was hired.

Smith missed all of last season while recovering from several surgeries on a leg that nearly required amputation. The club has been pleased with the 36-year-old's progress as he continues his comeback.