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Matthew Paras

mparas@washingtontimes.com

Matthew Paras was a digital sports writer for the Washington Times.

Articles by Matthew Paras

Seats at Fedex Field display the Washington Football Team logo during pregame warmups of an NFL football game between Washington Football Team and Philadelphia Eagles, in Landover, Md., Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020. Washington’s NFL team said Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, it will unveil its new name on Feb. 2. Team president Jason Wright confirmed that the name will not be Wolves or RedWolves. He cited trademark challenges for not going down that path that was popular among fans.(AP Photo/Susan Walsh) **FILE**

Commanders probe takes on sharply partisan tone

There was a time when Washington politicians on both sides of the aisle found common ground in rooting for the local NFL franchise. But these days, Democrats and Republicans increasingly find themselves on opposing sides when it comes to owner Dan Snyder and the Washington Commanders.

April 3, 2022
Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera speaks to reporters during a coaches press availability at the NFL owner's meeting, Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at The Breakers resort in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Rivera tired of Commanders being ‘easy target’

As the Washington Commanders coach, Ron Rivera is well aware of the franchise's reputation. Over the course of his 30-minute press conference Tuesday in Palm Beach, Florida, for instance, he was asked repeatedly about the perception that Washington isn't a desirable place for big-time stars.

March 29, 2022
Washington Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz speaks with reporters during his introductory press conference at Inova Sports Performance Center in Ashburn, Va., March 17, 2022. (Photo by Brian Murphy, All-Pro Reels)

Did Commanders jump too soon on Wentz? Mayhew doesn’t think so

The Commanders general manager dismissed the notion the team jumped too soon for Wentz when meeting with reporters Monday in Florida for the NFL's annual owners meetings. Mayhew stood firm behind the trade, calling Wentz "the best option" for the Burgundy and Gold.

March 28, 2022
Washington Wizards forward Corey Kispert (24) in action during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Golden State Warriors, Sunday, March 27, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

After setting Wizards’ rookie 3-point record, Kispert rediscovers form as a shooter

Kispert, who entered the NBA with a reputation as a prolific sharpshooter during his college career at Gonzaga, has had to work relentlessly to translate that skill to the next level -- a transition that hasn't always been a smooth one. But after experiencing his fair share of ups and downs, Kispert is finally starting to display the touch that made him the overall No. 15 pick in last year's draft.

March 28, 2022
FILE - Washington NFL football running back J.D. McKissic (41) runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Monday, Nov. 29, 2021, in Landover, Md. The rollercoaster offseason for the Washington Commanders took a few more twists Wednesday, March 16, 2022, a week after the stunning move to acquire Carson Wentz. After agreeing Tuesday to sign a $7 million, two-year deal with the Buffalo Bills, running back J.D. McKissic reversed course and decided to return to the Commanders under the same terms, according to a person with knowledge of the move. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)

McKissic: ‘Unfinished business’ led back to Commanders

J.D. McKissic's future changed in such a dramatic way over such a short period of time that the veteran running back insists he has trouble keeping track of all the details. Just last week, McKissic thought he was going to join the Buffalo Bills -- so much so he verbally agreed to a two-year, $7 million contract. Then, Washington stepped in with the same offer after the Bills deal was all but done.

March 24, 2022
Wide receiver Chris Olave runs a football drill during Ohio State Pro Day in Columbus, Ohio, Wednesday, March 23, 2022. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)

Rivera seen with Olave as Commanders scout receiver-heavy draft

At Ohio State's Pro Day on Wednesday, Commanders coach Ron Rivera struck up a conversation with Buckeyes receivers coach Brian Hartline. Video emerged of the two talking, but it was recorded from a far enough distance that it was impossible to hear the content of their conversation.

March 23, 2022