NFC East: Kedric Golston
Yeah, I know. You want to know when the Washington Redskins are going to re-sign London Fletcher. Don't have anything for you on that. All I can tell you is that they still plan to do it, he hasn't signed with anyone else yet and there are five months left before the season starts, so there's no real reason to worry that I can see.
In the meantime, though, they are still working. Mike Shanahan has said many times that the biggest thing the Redskins have lacked since he got there was depth. Having struck out in their pursuit of an upgrade at right tackle, they announced Monday that they have signed tackle James Lee, a former Buccaneer and Brown who will be thrown into the reserve tackle mix along with Willie Smith and Tyler Polumbus. He provides some level of veteran insurance in case Jammal Brown still can't shake his hip injury. At this point, with the top free-agent tackles all signed elsewhere and unless they can find a starter in the third round of the draft or later, the Redskins' best bet at right tackle is a healthy Brown. They just need to make sure they have some coverage in the somewhat likely event that Brown is not healthy.
Earlier in the day, ESPN 980 in Washington reported the Redskins had agreed to terms with defensive end Kedric Golston, who played for them last year and gets thrown into the defensive line mix. Having already re-signed Adam Carriker earlier in the offseason, and expecting Jarvis Jenkins back from the injury that cost him his rookie season, the Redskins believe their defensive line depth is a strength of the team. They signed defensive linemen Stephen Bowen and Barry Cofield in free agency last year, and both are back as projected starters in 2012.
Expect the Redskins to keep making depth moves in advance of the draft. They had defensive back Madieu Williams in for a free-agent visit last week, and they still intend to re-sign Fletcher and running back Tim Hightower.
In the meantime, though, they are still working. Mike Shanahan has said many times that the biggest thing the Redskins have lacked since he got there was depth. Having struck out in their pursuit of an upgrade at right tackle, they announced Monday that they have signed tackle James Lee, a former Buccaneer and Brown who will be thrown into the reserve tackle mix along with Willie Smith and Tyler Polumbus. He provides some level of veteran insurance in case Jammal Brown still can't shake his hip injury. At this point, with the top free-agent tackles all signed elsewhere and unless they can find a starter in the third round of the draft or later, the Redskins' best bet at right tackle is a healthy Brown. They just need to make sure they have some coverage in the somewhat likely event that Brown is not healthy.
Earlier in the day, ESPN 980 in Washington reported the Redskins had agreed to terms with defensive end Kedric Golston, who played for them last year and gets thrown into the defensive line mix. Having already re-signed Adam Carriker earlier in the offseason, and expecting Jarvis Jenkins back from the injury that cost him his rookie season, the Redskins believe their defensive line depth is a strength of the team. They signed defensive linemen Stephen Bowen and Barry Cofield in free agency last year, and both are back as projected starters in 2012.
Expect the Redskins to keep making depth moves in advance of the draft. They had defensive back Madieu Williams in for a free-agent visit last week, and they still intend to re-sign Fletcher and running back Tim Hightower.
Breakfast links: Giants man in the middle
August, 29, 2011
8/29/11
8:00
AM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
Dallas Cowboys
Tight end Martellus Bennett is going to miss two to four weeks with a sprained ankle and therefore might not be ready for the Sept. 11 season opener against the Jets. Losing Bennett impacts the Cowboys' passing game because it might inhibit their ability to use tight end Jason Witten as their slot receiver if he has more blocking responsibilities. The Cowboys are counting on their depth at tight end to help offset their lack of depth at wide receiver.
Jerry Jones seems almost giddy about the rookies on the Cowboys' offensive line. Kevin Kowalski isn't likely to be the starter once the season begins, but Jones seemed pleased with his performance in Saturday's game. Still seems strange, the treatment of Andre Gurode. Why fly him with you to Minnesota only to make him sit there and watch someone else do his job? Ugly business sometimes.
New York Giants
Mike Garafolo checks in with Jonathan Goff, who's shown signs this preseason of improving in pass coverage. I personally think this is a big question-mark spot for the Giants. There aren't too many positions at which you can point and say, "Yeah, the Giants are actually better there this year than they were last year." As good? Sure. Maybe not too much worse? Absolutely. But better? Not too many. If Goff can show improvement in his second year as a starting middle linebacker (not an outrageous idea, certainly), that would be one.
Victor Cruz was the star of the show in last year's Jets-Giants preseason game. He believes he's come a long way since then and hopes he can star again as he continues his bid for more playing time at wide receiver this year.
Philadelphia Eagles
In the wake of Todd Herremans' move from left guard to right tackle, Les Bowen assesses the remaining issues on the Eagles' offensive line -- specifically whether Jason Kelce is or should be leading the supposed "competition" between himself and Jamaal Jackson for the starting center's job. If Kelce proves to be a complete disaster (as he appeared to be at times Thursday night), then they can always just slide Jackson back in there. But Les is right -- they don't seem as though they want to do that.
The Eagles' receiving corps is gaining strength and depth, it would seem, with two weeks left before the start of the regular season. If Jeremy Maclin and Steve Smith really are both going to be ready, it'll be fascinating to see how this offense operates and who gets the targets.
Washington Redskins
Mike Shanahan was known in Denver for his zone-blocking offensive lines. Implementation of that scheme and those concepts didn't go so great in Shanahan's first year in Washington, but things seem to be improving in the second. It does amaze me a little bit that Washington's is the offensive line about which I've written the least in this preseason. Does that say more about what they're doing there or the number of question marks with which the other three teams are dealing?
On the other line, however, the Redskins' options for replacing promising rookie Jarvis Jenkins look grim. Jenkins is out for the season with a knee injury suffered in last week's preseason game, and his playing time will be taken by some combination of Kedric Golston, Doug Worthington and Darrion Scott. "Obviously," Shanahan said, "you cannot replace a player like that."
Tight end Martellus Bennett is going to miss two to four weeks with a sprained ankle and therefore might not be ready for the Sept. 11 season opener against the Jets. Losing Bennett impacts the Cowboys' passing game because it might inhibit their ability to use tight end Jason Witten as their slot receiver if he has more blocking responsibilities. The Cowboys are counting on their depth at tight end to help offset their lack of depth at wide receiver.
Jerry Jones seems almost giddy about the rookies on the Cowboys' offensive line. Kevin Kowalski isn't likely to be the starter once the season begins, but Jones seemed pleased with his performance in Saturday's game. Still seems strange, the treatment of Andre Gurode. Why fly him with you to Minnesota only to make him sit there and watch someone else do his job? Ugly business sometimes.
New York Giants
Mike Garafolo checks in with Jonathan Goff, who's shown signs this preseason of improving in pass coverage. I personally think this is a big question-mark spot for the Giants. There aren't too many positions at which you can point and say, "Yeah, the Giants are actually better there this year than they were last year." As good? Sure. Maybe not too much worse? Absolutely. But better? Not too many. If Goff can show improvement in his second year as a starting middle linebacker (not an outrageous idea, certainly), that would be one.
Victor Cruz was the star of the show in last year's Jets-Giants preseason game. He believes he's come a long way since then and hopes he can star again as he continues his bid for more playing time at wide receiver this year.
Philadelphia Eagles
In the wake of Todd Herremans' move from left guard to right tackle, Les Bowen assesses the remaining issues on the Eagles' offensive line -- specifically whether Jason Kelce is or should be leading the supposed "competition" between himself and Jamaal Jackson for the starting center's job. If Kelce proves to be a complete disaster (as he appeared to be at times Thursday night), then they can always just slide Jackson back in there. But Les is right -- they don't seem as though they want to do that.
The Eagles' receiving corps is gaining strength and depth, it would seem, with two weeks left before the start of the regular season. If Jeremy Maclin and Steve Smith really are both going to be ready, it'll be fascinating to see how this offense operates and who gets the targets.
Washington Redskins
Mike Shanahan was known in Denver for his zone-blocking offensive lines. Implementation of that scheme and those concepts didn't go so great in Shanahan's first year in Washington, but things seem to be improving in the second. It does amaze me a little bit that Washington's is the offensive line about which I've written the least in this preseason. Does that say more about what they're doing there or the number of question marks with which the other three teams are dealing?
On the other line, however, the Redskins' options for replacing promising rookie Jarvis Jenkins look grim. Jenkins is out for the season with a knee injury suffered in last week's preseason game, and his playing time will be taken by some combination of Kedric Golston, Doug Worthington and Darrion Scott. "Obviously," Shanahan said, "you cannot replace a player like that."
Jarvis Jenkins says he has a torn ACL
August, 26, 2011
8/26/11
9:59
AM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
The Washington Redskins' feel-good preseason took a big hit Friday morning when rookie defensive end Jarvis Jenkins revealed that he tore the ACL in his right knee during Thursday night's game against Baltimore. It's almost certainly a season-ending injury, though the team has yet to many any announcements about that.
The Redskins' second-round pick in this year's draft, Jenkins injured the knee chasing after Ray Rice early in Thursday night's game. An MRI on Friday morning apparently revealed the severity of the injury. It's a tough blow for Jenkins, who'd played well enough in training camp to challenge for a starting role on the line or at least a prominent role in the team's rotation of defensive ends. He's earned praise for his athleticism and the speed with which he was learning Jim Haslett's defensive schemes.
It's also a tough blow for the Redskins, who were counting on Jenkins to rotate in with Adam Carriker and Stephen Bowen at those end spots and now will have to rely more than they planned on Kedric Golston and others. The Redskins' defense has been one of the most impressive aspects of the team's encouraging preseason performance, and now they're thinner in a key spot.
We say it all the time, but it doesn't matter who wins or loses in preseason, or really how well anyone plays, as long as no one gets seriously hurt. Count the Redskins among the unfortunate teams who couldn't make it through the preseason without a significant injury.
The Redskins' second-round pick in this year's draft, Jenkins injured the knee chasing after Ray Rice early in Thursday night's game. An MRI on Friday morning apparently revealed the severity of the injury. It's a tough blow for Jenkins, who'd played well enough in training camp to challenge for a starting role on the line or at least a prominent role in the team's rotation of defensive ends. He's earned praise for his athleticism and the speed with which he was learning Jim Haslett's defensive schemes.
It's also a tough blow for the Redskins, who were counting on Jenkins to rotate in with Adam Carriker and Stephen Bowen at those end spots and now will have to rely more than they planned on Kedric Golston and others. The Redskins' defense has been one of the most impressive aspects of the team's encouraging preseason performance, and now they're thinner in a key spot.
We say it all the time, but it doesn't matter who wins or loses in preseason, or really how well anyone plays, as long as no one gets seriously hurt. Count the Redskins among the unfortunate teams who couldn't make it through the preseason without a significant injury.
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Readiness factor: The Redskins held a ton of player-organized workouts, and they seemed to go very well. Organized by defensive leaders London Fletcher and Lorenzo Alexander and inspired by the camps the Redskins teams of the past ran to great effect during labor stoppages, the Redskins' workouts were well-attended and well-directed. There were days when Fletcher would call plays from a piece of paper he kept in his pocket, trying to help the defense run some of the 3-4 looks that were installed (but not quite mastered) last year. They brought fans out of the stands to run drills with them and generally just had a good old time. It'll be interesting to see if all of that lockout-time bonding pays dividends once the games start to count.
Biggest challenge: Figuring out the quarterback situation. Donovan McNabb is surely gone as soon as they can move him. They didn't draft a quarterback in April, and shortly after the draft head coach Mike Shanahan said he liked the idea of John Beck as his starter. Whether it's Beck or Rex Grossman, who ran the offense late last year when the McNabb plan blew up, the Redskins will be going with an imperfect solution at the most important position on the field. Will it be a season-long nightmare that forces them to draft a quarterback high in next year's draft? Will it be a revolving door with one guy starting one game and the other the next? Will the defense play well enough to overcome it? Will Beck surprise and play better than everyone (except, apparently, Shanahan) thinks he can? Many questions, still no answers yet. At least soon they can start running drills and see what they actually have back there.
Haslett's second season: Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett came to town with Shanahan last year and converted the Redskins from a 4-3 defensive team to a 3-4. It was not an easy transition, and many of the pieces that were in place didn't fit well into the new scheme. Now, every coach who knows about it says it takes two years, not one, to fully transition to the 3-4. So we should see improvement in the way the Redskins play defense in 2011. They still need to add some pieces on the line, find a cornerback or two, and they may need a linebacker if Rocky McIntosh leaves and Alexander can't be a full-time starter on the inside. But the pre-lockout addition of O.J. Atogwe at safety and the drafting of outside linebacker Ryan Kerrigan in the first round were good moves. Along with the year of experience the returning guys got last year, they could help the Redskins put together a respectable defense sooner than you might expect.
Key players without contracts for 2011: OT Jammal Brown, CB Phillip Buchanon, DE Kedric Golston, QB Rex Grossman, LB Rocky McIntosh, WR Santana Moss, C Casey Rabach, CB Carlos Rogers
Readiness factor: The Redskins held a ton of player-organized workouts, and they seemed to go very well. Organized by defensive leaders London Fletcher and Lorenzo Alexander and inspired by the camps the Redskins teams of the past ran to great effect during labor stoppages, the Redskins' workouts were well-attended and well-directed. There were days when Fletcher would call plays from a piece of paper he kept in his pocket, trying to help the defense run some of the 3-4 looks that were installed (but not quite mastered) last year. They brought fans out of the stands to run drills with them and generally just had a good old time. It'll be interesting to see if all of that lockout-time bonding pays dividends once the games start to count.
Biggest challenge: Figuring out the quarterback situation. Donovan McNabb is surely gone as soon as they can move him. They didn't draft a quarterback in April, and shortly after the draft head coach Mike Shanahan said he liked the idea of John Beck as his starter. Whether it's Beck or Rex Grossman, who ran the offense late last year when the McNabb plan blew up, the Redskins will be going with an imperfect solution at the most important position on the field. Will it be a season-long nightmare that forces them to draft a quarterback high in next year's draft? Will it be a revolving door with one guy starting one game and the other the next? Will the defense play well enough to overcome it? Will Beck surprise and play better than everyone (except, apparently, Shanahan) thinks he can? Many questions, still no answers yet. At least soon they can start running drills and see what they actually have back there.
Haslett's second season: Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett came to town with Shanahan last year and converted the Redskins from a 4-3 defensive team to a 3-4. It was not an easy transition, and many of the pieces that were in place didn't fit well into the new scheme. Now, every coach who knows about it says it takes two years, not one, to fully transition to the 3-4. So we should see improvement in the way the Redskins play defense in 2011. They still need to add some pieces on the line, find a cornerback or two, and they may need a linebacker if Rocky McIntosh leaves and Alexander can't be a full-time starter on the inside. But the pre-lockout addition of O.J. Atogwe at safety and the drafting of outside linebacker Ryan Kerrigan in the first round were good moves. Along with the year of experience the returning guys got last year, they could help the Redskins put together a respectable defense sooner than you might expect.
Key players without contracts for 2011: OT Jammal Brown, CB Phillip Buchanon, DE Kedric Golston, QB Rex Grossman, LB Rocky McIntosh, WR Santana Moss, C Casey Rabach, CB Carlos Rogers
Free agency in the East: Defensive ends
June, 28, 2011
6/28/11
10:35
AM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
Our position-by-position look at potential four-year unrestricted free agency rolls along, with a look at the defensive end position and the way the free-agent field could impact the NFC East. Now, with two 3-4 defense teams and two 4-3 defense teams in the division, we could be talking about a wide variety of types of defensive ends. But from here it looks as if the division's 3-4 teams have more of a need at the position than do the 4-3 teams. The Giants, for example, aren't going to need defensive end help unless they trade Osi Umenyiora and lose Mathias Kiwanuka in free agency. I don't expect either of those things to happen, let alone both. So...
NFC East teams in need
Cowboys: Marcus Spears, a starter last season before his injury, will be a free agent. So will Stephen Bowen, who took his place, and Jason Hatcher, who played in 13 games and started one. Even if they're counting on a bounce-back year from Igor Olshansky, the Cowboys will absolutely need to address the other defensive end spot. New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has said he doesn't want to move nose tackle Jay Ratliff to end. But you have to wonder, if the better options are interior linemen, whether the Cowboys would go that way and rotate Ratliff and one or two new guys in and out of the nose tackle and end spots.
Redskins: Washington likes Adam Carriker at one of the end spots, and it's possible that second-round pick Jarvis Jenkins could emerge at a starter at the other one eventually. But asking Jenkins to start right away might be a bit too much, and if Kedric Golston is leaving as a free agent, they're left with 35-year-old Vonnie Holliday and 38-year-old Phillip Daniels. Depending on what they see out of Jeremy Jarmon and his knee, they could be in the market for some depth at this position.
Eagles: Trent Cole is a monster on the right side, but the question is on the left, where Juqua Parker is still penciled in as the starter and 2010 first-round pick Brandon Graham likely won't be healthy in time to start the season. There has been lots of talk about the Eagles adding a veteran pass-rusher opposite Cole, and it's possible new defensive line coach Jim Washburn has some ideas for potential targets.
Top five potential unrestricted free-agent defensive ends
1. Ray Edwards. After playing a strong second fiddle to better-known defensive stars Jared Allen and Kevin Williams over the past few seasons, Edwards is looking for a place to shine on his own as a pass-rusher. He'd be a great fit in the Eagles' defensive line rotation and would dramatically upgrade Philadelphia's pass rush.
2. Jason Babin. Lots of talk in Philly about a return for Babin, especially after he posted a career-high 12.5 sacks last season in Tennessee under Washburn. Babin is probably the kind of guy who needs to be in the right system to succeed, and there is concern that 2010 might have been the exception rather than the rule when it comes to Babin's ability to produce.
3. Charles Johnson. Nobody could have expected Johnson to replace Julius Peppers as well as he did in 2010, and for that reason it's probably very important for Carolina to retain him. If he hits the market, his 11.5 sacks from last season will catch plenty of teams' eyes.
4. Kiwanuka. When healthy, he's a versatile, frightening force who can be a pass-rushing 4-3 end or an outside linebacker. He's high on the Giants' priority list, but they have a lot of guys to re-sign and they probably aren't going to be able to get them all. Would Kiwaunka on the Eagles be among Giants fans' worst nightmares?
5. Shaun Ellis. Couldn't do this list for this division without putting a 3-4 end on it. Ellis had a brilliant playoff performance for the Jets and, even at age 33, likely has something to contribute for the short term. Might be a real nice fit in Washington with those younger guys.
Predictions that mean nothing: Eagles sign Edwards, Redskins sign Spears, Cowboys get a couple of guys, including Kansas City's Shaun Smith, who can be a run-stuffing 3-4 end and also rotate inside if they decide to move Ratliff around.
NFC East teams in need
Cowboys: Marcus Spears, a starter last season before his injury, will be a free agent. So will Stephen Bowen, who took his place, and Jason Hatcher, who played in 13 games and started one. Even if they're counting on a bounce-back year from Igor Olshansky, the Cowboys will absolutely need to address the other defensive end spot. New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has said he doesn't want to move nose tackle Jay Ratliff to end. But you have to wonder, if the better options are interior linemen, whether the Cowboys would go that way and rotate Ratliff and one or two new guys in and out of the nose tackle and end spots.
Redskins: Washington likes Adam Carriker at one of the end spots, and it's possible that second-round pick Jarvis Jenkins could emerge at a starter at the other one eventually. But asking Jenkins to start right away might be a bit too much, and if Kedric Golston is leaving as a free agent, they're left with 35-year-old Vonnie Holliday and 38-year-old Phillip Daniels. Depending on what they see out of Jeremy Jarmon and his knee, they could be in the market for some depth at this position.
Eagles: Trent Cole is a monster on the right side, but the question is on the left, where Juqua Parker is still penciled in as the starter and 2010 first-round pick Brandon Graham likely won't be healthy in time to start the season. There has been lots of talk about the Eagles adding a veteran pass-rusher opposite Cole, and it's possible new defensive line coach Jim Washburn has some ideas for potential targets.
Top five potential unrestricted free-agent defensive ends
1. Ray Edwards. After playing a strong second fiddle to better-known defensive stars Jared Allen and Kevin Williams over the past few seasons, Edwards is looking for a place to shine on his own as a pass-rusher. He'd be a great fit in the Eagles' defensive line rotation and would dramatically upgrade Philadelphia's pass rush.
2. Jason Babin. Lots of talk in Philly about a return for Babin, especially after he posted a career-high 12.5 sacks last season in Tennessee under Washburn. Babin is probably the kind of guy who needs to be in the right system to succeed, and there is concern that 2010 might have been the exception rather than the rule when it comes to Babin's ability to produce.
3. Charles Johnson. Nobody could have expected Johnson to replace Julius Peppers as well as he did in 2010, and for that reason it's probably very important for Carolina to retain him. If he hits the market, his 11.5 sacks from last season will catch plenty of teams' eyes.
4. Kiwanuka. When healthy, he's a versatile, frightening force who can be a pass-rushing 4-3 end or an outside linebacker. He's high on the Giants' priority list, but they have a lot of guys to re-sign and they probably aren't going to be able to get them all. Would Kiwaunka on the Eagles be among Giants fans' worst nightmares?
5. Shaun Ellis. Couldn't do this list for this division without putting a 3-4 end on it. Ellis had a brilliant playoff performance for the Jets and, even at age 33, likely has something to contribute for the short term. Might be a real nice fit in Washington with those younger guys.
Predictions that mean nothing: Eagles sign Edwards, Redskins sign Spears, Cowboys get a couple of guys, including Kansas City's Shaun Smith, who can be a run-stuffing 3-4 end and also rotate inside if they decide to move Ratliff around.
Breakfast links: Cowboys targeting Huff?
May, 27, 2011
5/27/11
8:00
AM ET
By
Dan Graziano | ESPN.com
All right. I'm working today. Who's with me?
(***crickets***)
Well, whatever. The few of you who stick around get a full day of NFC East bloggage before the big weekend hits. We're going to try to top last week's Eli-Romo debate and the 1,200 or so comments it generated by rolling out a new debate topic later this morning. This afternoon, we'll post the results of the "Flash Points" polls in which you guys voted on the most important event in the history of each of the division's four franchises. And we'll even start with a sing-songy riddle:
What walks down stairs, alone or in pairs and makes a 'Linkity sound?
A spring! A spring! A marvelous thing! Everyone knows it's ... the NFC East breakfast links!!!!
Dallas Cowboys
Eric Edholm at Pro Football Weekly believes new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will talk Jerry Jones into upgrading at safety once free agency starts. Oakland's Michael Huff, an old Ryan friend from his Raider days, could top the list. A lot of the Dallas safety speculation seems to assume the departure of Gerald Sensabaugh, but whether he's back or not, they'll still have a need for a veteran there. Huff might actually make more sense for the Cowboys than CB Nnamdi Asomugha, whose name must appear in he NFC East breakfast links at least four times per week per contractual agreement.
Blogging the Boys tried to answer the question of how much longer the Cowboys' core group of players will be young enough to have a chance to win a title together. Those windows do shut rather quickly in this league, don't they?
New York Giants
Rich Cimini moonlights on ESPNNewYork.com's Giants blog with a funny little item about Hall of Famer Floyd Little and his memories of Tom Coughlin complaining about a lack of carries while he was sharing a Syracuse backfield with Little and Larry Csonka in the '60s. "Why would we let you carry the ball when we have me and Csonka back there," Little recalls telling Coughlin more than once. "Are you crazy?" At least he gave it to him straight. Gotta believe Coughlin appreciated that.
The Giants' Facebook page is taking a look at the evolution of the team's logo through the years, which is kind of cool if you like that sort of thing. Which I do.
And there's more Tiki stuff today on the Anne Frank comments, but I'll spare the Giants fans a long diatribe on that one. You don't want to answer for that clown anymore, and you shouldn't have to.
Philadelphia Eagles
Kevin Kolb says Eagles head coach Andy Reid told him, "I'll do what's best for you" in a recent text message about Kolb's desire to be traded to a team for which he can start at quarterback. There's reason for Kolb to believe him. Reid consulted Donovan McNabb last year before trading him to the Redskins, in part because Washington was where McNabb preferred to go. Of course, there's a careful-what-you-wish-for lesson in that for young Kevin, no?
At the request of the U.S. Attorney's office, Michael Vick spoke to high school kids about the dangers of gun violence. Seventeen shootings in Philly this week, 11 of the victims under 21 years old. Vick called the stats "astonishing" as he spoke to the kids about "decision-making." Think what you want, but I guarantee you those kids were paying attention.
Washington Redskins
Mike Jones makes it sound as if Kedric Golston wouldn't mind sticking around to be part of the defensive line solution in Year 2 of the Jim Haslett 3-4 defense. The big man appears to have been working hard during the players-only minicamp that just wrapped up Thursday.
Jets coach Rex Ryan said he called former Redskins coach Joe Gibbs to ask for tips about weathering an NFL work stoppage, since Gibbs' Redskins teams won the Super Bowl after the strike-shortened seasons of 1982 and 1987. This feels like a good time to plug my column from yesterday, in case you didn't read it, and to go eat breakfast. Enjoy your day, and please ... try to concentrate. The long weekend will be here soon enough!
(***crickets***)
Well, whatever. The few of you who stick around get a full day of NFC East bloggage before the big weekend hits. We're going to try to top last week's Eli-Romo debate and the 1,200 or so comments it generated by rolling out a new debate topic later this morning. This afternoon, we'll post the results of the "Flash Points" polls in which you guys voted on the most important event in the history of each of the division's four franchises. And we'll even start with a sing-songy riddle:
What walks down stairs, alone or in pairs and makes a 'Linkity sound?
A spring! A spring! A marvelous thing! Everyone knows it's ... the NFC East breakfast links!!!!
Dallas Cowboys
Eric Edholm at Pro Football Weekly believes new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will talk Jerry Jones into upgrading at safety once free agency starts. Oakland's Michael Huff, an old Ryan friend from his Raider days, could top the list. A lot of the Dallas safety speculation seems to assume the departure of Gerald Sensabaugh, but whether he's back or not, they'll still have a need for a veteran there. Huff might actually make more sense for the Cowboys than CB Nnamdi Asomugha, whose name must appear in he NFC East breakfast links at least four times per week per contractual agreement.
Blogging the Boys tried to answer the question of how much longer the Cowboys' core group of players will be young enough to have a chance to win a title together. Those windows do shut rather quickly in this league, don't they?
New York Giants
Rich Cimini moonlights on ESPNNewYork.com's Giants blog with a funny little item about Hall of Famer Floyd Little and his memories of Tom Coughlin complaining about a lack of carries while he was sharing a Syracuse backfield with Little and Larry Csonka in the '60s. "Why would we let you carry the ball when we have me and Csonka back there," Little recalls telling Coughlin more than once. "Are you crazy?" At least he gave it to him straight. Gotta believe Coughlin appreciated that.
The Giants' Facebook page is taking a look at the evolution of the team's logo through the years, which is kind of cool if you like that sort of thing. Which I do.
And there's more Tiki stuff today on the Anne Frank comments, but I'll spare the Giants fans a long diatribe on that one. You don't want to answer for that clown anymore, and you shouldn't have to.
Philadelphia Eagles
Kevin Kolb says Eagles head coach Andy Reid told him, "I'll do what's best for you" in a recent text message about Kolb's desire to be traded to a team for which he can start at quarterback. There's reason for Kolb to believe him. Reid consulted Donovan McNabb last year before trading him to the Redskins, in part because Washington was where McNabb preferred to go. Of course, there's a careful-what-you-wish-for lesson in that for young Kevin, no?
At the request of the U.S. Attorney's office, Michael Vick spoke to high school kids about the dangers of gun violence. Seventeen shootings in Philly this week, 11 of the victims under 21 years old. Vick called the stats "astonishing" as he spoke to the kids about "decision-making." Think what you want, but I guarantee you those kids were paying attention.
Washington Redskins
Mike Jones makes it sound as if Kedric Golston wouldn't mind sticking around to be part of the defensive line solution in Year 2 of the Jim Haslett 3-4 defense. The big man appears to have been working hard during the players-only minicamp that just wrapped up Thursday.
Jets coach Rex Ryan said he called former Redskins coach Joe Gibbs to ask for tips about weathering an NFL work stoppage, since Gibbs' Redskins teams won the Super Bowl after the strike-shortened seasons of 1982 and 1987. This feels like a good time to plug my column from yesterday, in case you didn't read it, and to go eat breakfast. Enjoy your day, and please ... try to concentrate. The long weekend will be here soon enough!
Breaking down the DLs: Washington
April, 22, 2011
4/22/11
1:00
PM ET
By Matt Williamson, Scouts Inc. | ESPN.com
Scouts Inc.'s Matt Williamson examines the defensive lines of each NFC East team. Today: Washington Redskins.
I am not going to include Albert Haynesworth as part of this defensive line because it seems unlikely that he will be on Washington’s roster next season.
Here is what the Redskins do have … and they need more.
It is possible that nose tackle is the biggest need on this team. Maake Kemoeatu was a raging failure after being signed as a free agent a year ago. Washington desperately needs a difference-maker in the middle of the defensive front. Anthony Bryant did show some promise finishing out the season in the middle.
The Redskins do have a solid starter in Adam Carriker, who fits Washington’s 3-4 scheme very well. Carriker could be primed for improvement next season. The Redskins also milked a fair amount of production from Vonnie Holliday and Phillip Daniels, but age is obviously a big factor with these two. Holliday was the superior player of the two, so if there is only room for one of these veterans, he would be the one to keep. Youngster Jeremy Jarmon has ability, but was drafted with the intent of using him as a strong-side end in a 4-3 scheme instead of Washington’s odd front. He might warrant snaps on passing downs. Kedric Golston could leave via free agency, and the Redskins might be better off letting him go after a poor 2010 campaign. The Redskins need to add at least one starter to their defensive line.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.
I am not going to include Albert Haynesworth as part of this defensive line because it seems unlikely that he will be on Washington’s roster next season.
Here is what the Redskins do have … and they need more.
It is possible that nose tackle is the biggest need on this team. Maake Kemoeatu was a raging failure after being signed as a free agent a year ago. Washington desperately needs a difference-maker in the middle of the defensive front. Anthony Bryant did show some promise finishing out the season in the middle.
The Redskins do have a solid starter in Adam Carriker, who fits Washington’s 3-4 scheme very well. Carriker could be primed for improvement next season. The Redskins also milked a fair amount of production from Vonnie Holliday and Phillip Daniels, but age is obviously a big factor with these two. Holliday was the superior player of the two, so if there is only room for one of these veterans, he would be the one to keep. Youngster Jeremy Jarmon has ability, but was drafted with the intent of using him as a strong-side end in a 4-3 scheme instead of Washington’s odd front. He might warrant snaps on passing downs. Kedric Golston could leave via free agency, and the Redskins might be better off letting him go after a poor 2010 campaign. The Redskins need to add at least one starter to their defensive line.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com.
NFC East links: Roseman set for draft
April, 21, 2011
4/21/11
10:22
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Morning News' Rick Gosselin on the Cowboys in the draft: "You can always bank on Jerry Jones looking to trade out. That’s his history; he doesn’t want to draft; he doesn’t want that pick; he’d rather have quantity than quality."
SI.com's Don Banks isn't pleased with what he calls the NFL's "love affair" with the Cowboys.
New York Giants
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell spoke for 30 minutes on Wednesday with Giants season-ticket holders.
Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman discusses his approach in working a draft that precedes free agency.
The Eagles are following the lead of the Giants in allowing season-ticket holders the chance to defer the second half of their ticket payment until the league announces there will be a season in 2011.
Washington Redskins
The Washington Post's Mike Jones on some of the quirks that go along with holding a minicamp with only 30 players: "The circumstances weren’t perfect. At times defensive lineman Kedric Golston lined up at free safety to help out free safety Macho Harris, and at one point, nose tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu went on a pass route so linebacker Rob Jackson had someone to cover."
Is Jake Locker a good fit for the Redskins? Two NFL analysts seem to think so.
The Dallas Morning News' Rick Gosselin on the Cowboys in the draft: "You can always bank on Jerry Jones looking to trade out. That’s his history; he doesn’t want to draft; he doesn’t want that pick; he’d rather have quantity than quality."
SI.com's Don Banks isn't pleased with what he calls the NFL's "love affair" with the Cowboys.
New York Giants
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell spoke for 30 minutes on Wednesday with Giants season-ticket holders.
Philadelphia Eagles
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman discusses his approach in working a draft that precedes free agency.
The Eagles are following the lead of the Giants in allowing season-ticket holders the chance to defer the second half of their ticket payment until the league announces there will be a season in 2011.
Washington Redskins
The Washington Post's Mike Jones on some of the quirks that go along with holding a minicamp with only 30 players: "The circumstances weren’t perfect. At times defensive lineman Kedric Golston lined up at free safety to help out free safety Macho Harris, and at one point, nose tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu went on a pass route so linebacker Rob Jackson had someone to cover."
Is Jake Locker a good fit for the Redskins? Two NFL analysts seem to think so.
ASHBURN, Va. -- If Albert Haynesworth ever qualifies to participate in one of Mike Shanahan's practices, I actually think he'd enjoy himself. Shanahan asks his players to pour everything they have into morning sessions before hosting jog-throughs in the afternoons. And judging from his red-faced appearance at today's news conference, the head coach is about ready for this episode to end.
The MRI on Albert Haynesworth's knee came back negative, and the Washington Post's Jason Reid reported Friday morning that the defensive lineman's tearing it up on the treadmill. So why can this man not make it through two 300-yard shuttle runs that were easily handled by ESPN's Mike Golic? Your guess is as good as mine. One reporter excitedly noted that Haynesworth had appeared to increase his work in individual drills Friday.
"He's been doing the same thing," snapped Shanahan. "He's been getting a few reps and individual work -- the same thing he's been doing."
When I sit down with Shanahan this evening, I'm not going to lead with Haynesworth. I'm going to ask the coach to compare this Redskins team to some of his Broncos teams. And I'm curious to pick his brain about why he thought Donovan McNabb was the perfect fit for the Redskins. The guy's not known for his accuracy, and that's something Shanahan values. Now let's take a look at what caught my eye in practice Friday morning:
The MRI on Albert Haynesworth's knee came back negative, and the Washington Post's Jason Reid reported Friday morning that the defensive lineman's tearing it up on the treadmill. So why can this man not make it through two 300-yard shuttle runs that were easily handled by ESPN's Mike Golic? Your guess is as good as mine. One reporter excitedly noted that Haynesworth had appeared to increase his work in individual drills Friday.
"He's been doing the same thing," snapped Shanahan. "He's been getting a few reps and individual work -- the same thing he's been doing."
When I sit down with Shanahan this evening, I'm not going to lead with Haynesworth. I'm going to ask the coach to compare this Redskins team to some of his Broncos teams. And I'm curious to pick his brain about why he thought Donovan McNabb was the perfect fit for the Redskins. The guy's not known for his accuracy, and that's something Shanahan values. Now let's take a look at what caught my eye in practice Friday morning:
- I talked to one longtime Redskins reporter who actually thinks Larry Johnson will have more carries than Clinton Portis this season. I don't see that happening unless Portis suffers an injury, but it's obvious that Johnson's feeling really good early in camp. He's finishing off every run and he's actually shown a burst at times. He also appears to be really comfortable with his new surroundings. On the other hand, it's hard to imagine Willie Parker making this roster. He's not getting many reps and it just doesn't look like Shanahan's giving him much of a chance. Ryan Torrain is receiving more carries than Parker from what I can tell.
- Mike Shanahan doesn't miss a beat during practice. During drills, he'll stand away from everyone and just study different things. He also takes mental notes of which players don't hustle between drills and calls out their names at the end of practice. Those players are forced to run extra sprints. As one local beat reporter put it, "The adults are in charge again." I liked Jim Zorn, but he probably gave his players too much latitude.
- Lorenzo Alexander and Andre Carter have a nice little battle going on at left outside linebacker. Alexander has been running with the first team, but Carter, 31, will get plenty of playing time. You knew Carter would have a little trouble in coverage, but he's actually been step for step with running backs on a couple of occasions. No matter who wins the starting role, the other guy will receive plenty of playing time. By the way, Carter told me after practice that he thinks David Diehl's the best left tackle he's faced in the Beast.
- Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett is the best thing that could've happened to Carlos Rogers' career. The cornerback thought his career in Washington was over, but now Haslett believes he can turn him into an Antoine Winfield-type player. Haslett will take advantage of Rogers' size and he'll send him on a lot more blitzes.
- Brian Orakpo told me after practice that Haslett's playbook has at least 20 more blitzes than Greg Blache's version. He said it was a little overwhelming at first, but now he's not thinking as much.
- Kedric Golston and Adam Carriker were running with the first-team defense Friday. It looked like the Redskins were working on their dime package, which features two down linemen. If Haynesworth passes the conditioning test in the next month or so, he'll likely see a lot of time at right defensive end.
- Torrain could end up serving as the third-down back, but he can't drop a perfect swing pass as he did Friday.
- When former Cowboys receiver Joey Galloway broke free on a deep ball, Haslett just about lost it. "How many [expletive] times do we have to do this?" he shoutd in the general direction of safety LaRon Landry. By the way, Landry has a very difficult time not destroying receivers across the middle -- even when players are in shorts. In Friday's morning session, Landry pulled up at the last possible moment when Chris Cooley caught a McNabb pass across the middle. It looks like one of Cooley's brothers (Taylor?) was conducting some interviews for the tight end's blog after practice. They were focusing on Santana Moss.
- Cornerback Justin Tryon made a nice recovery on a fly pattern to Roydell Williams. At this moment, Moss and Galloway are your starting wide receivers. I think it's the weakest part of this team, but Moss tried to convince me otherwise during a 20-minute visit following practice.
- If you need a Rudy type player to root for, let me point you in the direction of former Kansas State receiver Brandon Banks. At 5-foot-7, Banks isn't exactly a red-zone target. But he's quick and appears to have good hands. I'm interested to see if he can make some plays in the preseason. I'd love to see the little fella get some reps returning punts. He's not very sturdy, though. He caught a short pass Friday and then a shove from cornerback Kevin Barnes almost sent him into a crowd of corporate folks. I think a stiff wind might have the same effect on young Banks.
- John Beck rolled right and fired a bullet to tight end Lee Vickers in team drills. Former TCU linebacker Robert Henson reacted with some loud expletives because he came close to breaking up the pass. Perhaps Henson realizes that Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin will do something similar to his Frogs in Week 3. Beck botched a handoff to Portis in Friday's practice. He didn't last with the Dolphins because of a side-arm motion that led to a lot of balls being deflected. If Dolphins quarterbacks coach David Lee can't fix a problem, then I'm skeptical of the quarterback having much of a future in the league. Lee has worked with Tony Romo, Chad Henne and Tim Tebow (Senior Bowl).
- Haslett is trying to change the mentality of this defense. You'll hear the word "strip" over and over again in practice. Haslett wants one defender to strip the ball and another to come over the top and go for the scoop. There's an emphasis on takeaways in almost every drill.
- Shanahan thinks that Jammal Brown and Malcolm Kelly will return to practice Monday, but he's not certain about that. I get the feeling that the Redskins are starting to lose patience with Kelly, who is nursing a tight hamstring. Late in Friday's practice, the receiver would've broken away from the peloton had he not been on a stationary bike. It's not like the guy has a bad attitude or anything. McNabb and Moss have both taken a special interest in the former Oklahoma star, but he has a hard time staying on the field.
- Grapevine, Texas, native Richard Bartel continues to throw the ball well in practice. Everyone's focused on Beck since he arrived, but Bartel's the backup who seems to take advantage of every rep.
- Brian Orakpo said he had some lofty personal goals for this season, but he's not willing to go on the record at this point. He spent much of our conversation talking about the Big 12 finding a way to stay together. With Nebraska defecting to the Big 10, Orakpo says this year's game between his Texas Longhorns and Adam Carriker's Cornhuskers will carry added significance. "I'm still trying to recover from when they almost beat us," said Orakpo, referring to the Big 12 title game.
- Safety Kareem Moore is having an excellent training camp and it will be tough to keep him off the field. The Redskins have actually developed some nice depth at safety. But on that topic, I'm not sure what's happened to Chris Horton. Two years ago, he took the league by storm when injuries forced him onto the field. Now, he's barely getting any reps in practice.
- I thought left tackle Trent Williams looked pretty quick in team drills. He tweaked his hip a little bit in practice, but Shanahan thinks he'll be fine.
The Big Question: Replacing Haynesworth
May, 18, 2010
5/18/10
1:00
PM ET
By Scouts Inc.'s Matt Williamson | ESPN.com
» NFC Big Question: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
What would the Redskins’ defensive line look like without Albert Haynesworth?
Haynesworth doesn’t want to play in a 3-4 scheme, which is exactly what is being implemented in Washington as we speak. It still remains a real possibility that the Redskins will move their star defensive lineman. If that happens -- and no defensive players are received in the deal -- who will line up in the Redskins’ front three and what will be the impact of his departure?
There isn’t a more disruptive player in the league than Haynesworth when he is on his game and he is capable of doing more or less whatever he wants on a football field. If motivated, he could be a fantastic nose tackle, or better yet, a 3-4 end for Washington. But enough about his abilities. For the sake of this piece, Haynesworth is elsewhere.
At nose tackle, the Redskins were shrewd in signing Maake Kemoeatu. Health could be a concern, but he is custom-made to man the nose in this scheme with his bulk, power and run-stuffing abilities. Still, the fact that Kemoeatu missed all of 2009 with an Achilles tendon injury has to give you pause. I am not a doctor, but I am guessing that his extreme mass puts a lot of stress on a recovering Achilles and this injury surely hasn’t helped this massive human being’s conditioning in the meantime.
Kedric Golston is the other candidate for nose tackle. He is more of an upfield player than Kemoeatu, but he isn’t as massive or stout. These two should be solid in a rotation, but if Kemoeatu’s health becomes a major problem, I would worry about Golston’s ability to hold down the spot full time. He plays hard, though, and has starting experience. Still, you need more than that to excel at nose tackle in the NFL, even on a two-down basis.
With the current group of nose tackles, it is feasible that Haynesworth could be a disruptive end in this scheme, a la Richard Seymour. To me, that is the way to best utilize his skills, while also making him happier with the scheme change. Of course, he also could play nose tackle and on throwing downs would be a beast as an interior pass-rusher. But without him, the Redskins are very light at the end position.
Phillip Daniels looks pretty set as a starter. He is a bigger base end in the 4-3 whose abilities should translate well to the new scheme. And this switch should extend his career, but he is 37, so who knows how long he can contribute. If he can hold up, Daniels should be solid enough as a run stopper. But how many snaps can he play?
Two others whom I see potentially making an impact are Adam Carriker and Jeremy Jarmon. Both have ability. When they were running a 4-3, the Redskins used a third-round supplemental pick on Jarmon, but he probably would have been drafted higher than that in the typical draft format. But now he is playing in a 3-4, where his upfield abilities will not be utilized as much and he will be asked to anchor into the ground and stack and shed against bigger men. I am not writing him off for this detail -- he has the size to adapt, he is very young and improved as his rookie season went along -- but it is not what he was drafted to do.
In the 2007 draft, St. Louis used the 13th overall pick on Carriker to play in its 4-3 scheme. But he was miscast in that role and is clearly better suited to play end in an odd front. Injuries have been the big problem for Carriker and even when healthy, he has yet to show much in the NFL in any capacity. But I was extremely high on Carriker coming out of Nebraska as a 3-4 end prospect, so it wouldn’t shock me if he revitalized his career to some degree in Washington.
Recognizing the problem at defensive end, the Redskins signed Vonnie Holliday on Monday. Much like Daniels, he is a veteran without upside, but he does have the grit and experience needed to hold his own in the trenches. In fact, he played quite well for the Broncos last season and might still be the best pass-rusher of the current group of defensive ends in Washington. Still, keeping his snaps low would be wise at his age (34).
Trust me, I am not a believer in keeping unmotivated players who do not want to be with the team. And in the 3-4, you can often get by with tough, try-hard guys who do their job without a lot of fanfare. But if Haynesworth leaves town, the Redskins’ defensive line looks pretty atrocious to me.
What would the Redskins’ defensive line look like without Albert Haynesworth?
[+] Enlarge
G. Newman Lowrance/Getty ImagesMaake Kemoeatu's bulk and power make him an ideal fit as a 3-4 nose tackle, but can he stay healthy?
G. Newman Lowrance/Getty ImagesMaake Kemoeatu's bulk and power make him an ideal fit as a 3-4 nose tackle, but can he stay healthy?There isn’t a more disruptive player in the league than Haynesworth when he is on his game and he is capable of doing more or less whatever he wants on a football field. If motivated, he could be a fantastic nose tackle, or better yet, a 3-4 end for Washington. But enough about his abilities. For the sake of this piece, Haynesworth is elsewhere.
At nose tackle, the Redskins were shrewd in signing Maake Kemoeatu. Health could be a concern, but he is custom-made to man the nose in this scheme with his bulk, power and run-stuffing abilities. Still, the fact that Kemoeatu missed all of 2009 with an Achilles tendon injury has to give you pause. I am not a doctor, but I am guessing that his extreme mass puts a lot of stress on a recovering Achilles and this injury surely hasn’t helped this massive human being’s conditioning in the meantime.
Kedric Golston is the other candidate for nose tackle. He is more of an upfield player than Kemoeatu, but he isn’t as massive or stout. These two should be solid in a rotation, but if Kemoeatu’s health becomes a major problem, I would worry about Golston’s ability to hold down the spot full time. He plays hard, though, and has starting experience. Still, you need more than that to excel at nose tackle in the NFL, even on a two-down basis.
With the current group of nose tackles, it is feasible that Haynesworth could be a disruptive end in this scheme, a la Richard Seymour. To me, that is the way to best utilize his skills, while also making him happier with the scheme change. Of course, he also could play nose tackle and on throwing downs would be a beast as an interior pass-rusher. But without him, the Redskins are very light at the end position.
Phillip Daniels looks pretty set as a starter. He is a bigger base end in the 4-3 whose abilities should translate well to the new scheme. And this switch should extend his career, but he is 37, so who knows how long he can contribute. If he can hold up, Daniels should be solid enough as a run stopper. But how many snaps can he play?
Two others whom I see potentially making an impact are Adam Carriker and Jeremy Jarmon. Both have ability. When they were running a 4-3, the Redskins used a third-round supplemental pick on Jarmon, but he probably would have been drafted higher than that in the typical draft format. But now he is playing in a 3-4, where his upfield abilities will not be utilized as much and he will be asked to anchor into the ground and stack and shed against bigger men. I am not writing him off for this detail -- he has the size to adapt, he is very young and improved as his rookie season went along -- but it is not what he was drafted to do.
In the 2007 draft, St. Louis used the 13th overall pick on Carriker to play in its 4-3 scheme. But he was miscast in that role and is clearly better suited to play end in an odd front. Injuries have been the big problem for Carriker and even when healthy, he has yet to show much in the NFL in any capacity. But I was extremely high on Carriker coming out of Nebraska as a 3-4 end prospect, so it wouldn’t shock me if he revitalized his career to some degree in Washington.
Recognizing the problem at defensive end, the Redskins signed Vonnie Holliday on Monday. Much like Daniels, he is a veteran without upside, but he does have the grit and experience needed to hold his own in the trenches. In fact, he played quite well for the Broncos last season and might still be the best pass-rusher of the current group of defensive ends in Washington. Still, keeping his snaps low would be wise at his age (34).
Trust me, I am not a believer in keeping unmotivated players who do not want to be with the team. And in the 3-4, you can often get by with tough, try-hard guys who do their job without a lot of fanfare. But if Haynesworth leaves town, the Redskins’ defensive line looks pretty atrocious to me.
Washington Redskins restricted free agent Kedric Golston has signed a new contract with the club. Golston, 26, has become a very dependable defensive tackle and he'll apparently play nose tackle in Jim Haslett's 3-4 scheme.
And if Mike Shanahan is able to trade Albert Haynesworth during the draft, Golston would likely be his replacement. Haslett has watched a ton of film on Golston and apparently liked what he saw. He's certainly not the earth-moving type nose tackle that you see in a lot of 3-4 schemes, but he'll be able to use his quickness and play-making ability. He'll be more along the lines of a Jay Ratliff, who uses his high motor and immense strength to take on massive blockers.
The first minicamp of the Shanahan era begins today. There will be some media availability Sunday. And if you've ever wondered what Donovan McNabb would look like in a Redskins uniform, here ya go.
And if Mike Shanahan is able to trade Albert Haynesworth during the draft, Golston would likely be his replacement. Haslett has watched a ton of film on Golston and apparently liked what he saw. He's certainly not the earth-moving type nose tackle that you see in a lot of 3-4 schemes, but he'll be able to use his quickness and play-making ability. He'll be more along the lines of a Jay Ratliff, who uses his high motor and immense strength to take on massive blockers.
The first minicamp of the Shanahan era begins today. There will be some media availability Sunday. And if you've ever wondered what Donovan McNabb would look like in a Redskins uniform, here ya go.
NFC East: Free-agency primer
March, 4, 2010
3/04/10
9:49
AM ET
By Scouts Inc.'s Matt Williamson | ESPN.com
Dallas Cowboys
Potential unrestricted free agents: G Montrae Holland
Potential restricted free agents: NT Junior Siavii, WR Miles Austin, DE Stephen Bowen, CB Cletis Gordon, DE Jason Hatcher, WR Sam Hurd, T Pat McQuistan, C Duke Preston, G Cory Procter, S Gerald Sensabaugh, DE Marcus Spears, S Pat Watkins, K Shaun Suisham.
What to expect: Anything is possible with Jerry Jones in charge, and the Cowboys could make a big splash after an underwhelming offseason a year ago. But in terms of team needs and what is required to take the next step, Dallas really doesn’t need much. A big-time impact safety makes some sense and could make a very good defense great, but that might be a project for the draft in a trade-up scenario for someone like Earl Thomas. But Darren Sharper might pique their interest. They also need to get younger along the offensive line, particularly at tackle, but that seems like a draft-day project, too. Maybe Jones gets real aggressive in the wide receiver market, as Roy Williams certainly is not living up to his billing, but the Cowboys are still rather stacked with pass-catchers. All in all, this is a team that is sitting pretty and doesn’t have a prominent unrestricted free agent who is poised to leave.
New York Giants
Potential unrestricted free agents: QB David Carr, LB Danny Clark, P Jeff Feagles, DT Fred Robbins
Potential restricted free agents: WR Domenik Hixon, TE Darcy Johnson, DE Dave Tollefson, G Kevin Boothe, S C.C. Brown, DT Barry Cofield, CB Kevin Dockery, WR Derek Hagan, WR Sinorice Moss, T Guy Whimper, LB Gerris Wilkinson.
What to expect: Big things could be in the works here, as there are already rumors swirling that New York could be a prime suitor for linebacker Karlos Dansby. An impact linebacker is certainly near the top of their wish list and Dansby fits the bill. Plus, he is extremely versatile. Getting faster on defense is a huge priority with new coordinator Perry Fewell stressing the ability to cover a lot of ground. However, Dansby isn’t really the thumper they need in the middle and is more of an outside linebacker for this system, although he would be great on passing downs. This is a group of decision-makers who might be starting to feel some heat, so do not rule out a big move or two.
Philadelphia Eagles
Potential unrestricted free agents: DE Jason Babin, S Sean Jones, LB Jeremiah Trotter, LB Tracy White
Potential restricted free agents: LB Akeem Jordan, P Saverio Rocca, WR Jason Avant, C Nick Cole, LB Omar Gaither, LB Chris Gocong, CB Ellis Hobbs, G Max Jean-Gilles, TE Alex Smith, FB Leonard Weaver.
What to expect: There are questions on the offensive line, but overall, the Eagles are in a prime situation to improve their defense, particularly up front and at safety. Remember, they have quarterbacks to dangle as trade bait and really do not have any unrestricted guys that they need to bring back. This is a possible landing spot for Julius Peppers and he would be terrific on the opposite side of Trent Cole, who is among the most underrated players in the game and could blow up with someone taking pass protection attention away from his side. Count on the Eagles being aggressive in the free-agent and/or trade market. It might just be enough to get them that ever elusive Lombardi trophy. Stranger things have happened.
Washington Redskins
Potential unrestricted free agents: LS Ethan Albright, DE Phillip Daniels, T Levi Jones, C Casey Rabach,
P Hunter Smith, T Mike Williams, DE Renaldo Wynn, TE Todd Yoder.
Potential restricted free agents: DE Lorenzo Alexander, T Stephon Heyer, LB Chris Wilson, QB Jason Campbell, S Reed Doughty, DT Kedric Golston, LB Rocky McIntosh, DT Anthony Montgomery, C Will Montgomery, CB Carlos Rogers.
What to expect: This is a difficult team to get a grasp on in terms of what they might do in free agency, but I think it is safe to say that ownership will not hold Mike Shanahan and company back from opening up the check book and signing (and even overpaying) players whom they desire. It would be wise for Washington to have an excellent idea of what they are going to do with the fourth overall draft pick in terms of going quarterback or offensive tackle before really devising a free-agency plan. Rebuilding the offensive line is a must and Shanahan needs lighter, quicker (and younger) linemen than are on the roster. A running back they can trust wouldn’t hurt either, although it looks as though Clinton Portis will return, which they may regret. But don’t forget, this is a team that -- unwisely in my opinion -- is switching to a 3-4 scheme, so inside linebacker help is required, as are defensive linemen who fit the new scheme. The Redskins have a long wish list, but also have the ownership to endorse big spending when free agency opens.
Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
Washington Redskins defensive tackle Kedric Golston has signed his tender with the club, according to The Washington Post. Golston and Anthony Montgomery will provide depth behind Albert Haynesworth and Cornelius Griffin.
Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
LANDOVER, Md. -- Redskins linebacker Marcus Washington has left the game with a sprained ankle and his return is questionable. Washington has been banged up all season. H.B. Blades has taken his place in the starting lineup. Blades is part of the Redskins' short-yardage unit.
He's sort of a poor man's London Fletcher. Both are little guys who bring a tremendous amount of energy. The Cowboys continue to work the perimeter with Marion Barber. At some point, you'd expect them to run a counter play right at Redskins defensive tackle Kedric Golston.
Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley
In case you missed it, my Redskins Camp Confidential article is now featured on ESPN.com. I have a ton of stuff that I couldn't fit into my 1,300-word allotment, so I'll try to drop some of those notes into a hefty mailbag Friday.
Here are a few of the players I took extensive practice notes on:
- DE Rob Jackson
- TE Fred Davis
- G/T Chad Rinehart
- DT Kedric Golston
- LB Matt Sinclair
- LB H.B. Blades
- S Chris Horton
- CB Matterral Richardson
- S Vernon Fox
- RB Marcus Mason
- WR Anthony Mix
- QB Colt Brennan
- QB Jason Campbell
Feel free to ask me about any of these guys.
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Dan Graziano
Graziano joined ESPN.com in 2011 after two years as a Senior NFL Writer for AOL FanHouse. He covered Major League Baseball, the Olympics and various other sports during his time at the Star-Ledger and the Palm Beach Post. A New Jersey native and author of two published novels, he now lives in Ridgewood, N.J., with his wife and two sons.
