***OFFICIAL*** Washington Redskins 2011 Off-Season Thread (1 Viewer)

[Doug B]

For now, we know they've locked up the following players:

Ohio State safety Anderson Russell

UCLA tight end Logan Paulsen

Eastern Arizona defensive tackle Marques Slocum

LSU running back Keiland Williams

Penn State quarterback Daryll Clark

Troy running back Maurice Greer

Rick Maese

Keiland Williams is a huge coup. There's a logjam now, but he's got a decent shot at being the starter in 2011, and I'd put money on him being the Skins main RB in 2012.

 

[Sidewinder16]

I may pick Jene Bramel's brain through a PM and see what knowledge he can bestow upon me.

Just my (our?) luck, a thread on the Redskins moving to a 3-4 was started yesterday in the IDP Forum, so I posted some questions for Jene. He gives a very detailed response. If you read the rest of the thread, too, you'll see that he is of the opinion that the current assumed starters (Carter, Fletcher, McIntosh, Orakpo) will probably do just fine in the 3-4.

 

[Sidewinder16]

Landry confirming he should be in the box a lot this year.

"Nah, man, I'm playing strong safety," Landry said in a phone interview Sunday.

Apparently, Landry in some interviews mentioned linebacker in connection with his duties this season, so he clarified what he meant.

"What I'm saying is, what I was trying to say, is that strong safety, in my role this season as far as being a leader, I want to know what everybody does on the field. Even the d-linemen and the linebackers," he said. "With me playing strong safety, I'm at linebacker depth, so I need to know my [run] gaps, my coverages and everything.

"With that said I know the linebacker position right now. I want to be able to explain to everybody what the MIKE [middle], WILL [weak-side] and SAM [strong-side] linebackers are supposed to do in our defense. ... The MIKE and the strong [safety] and the free are basically the quarterbacks of the defense. They need to know everything. That's what I was saying."

 

[fatness]

- All signs point to Shanahan and Allen employing a BPA strategy when drafting, which I love.- Despite seemingly employing a BPA draft strategy, each of the picks filled a need. (*- The Morris pick is debatable, but the team could definitely use an upgrade over Sellers, whose play has digressed.)

Every player they drafted was at a position of need. I think they targeted 'need' much more than did the front office under Cerrato. They just are better judges of player ability (I realize it's early, but that's the way it appears to me).

 

[Sebowski]

I may pick Jene Bramel's brain through a PM and see what knowledge he can bestow upon me.

Just my (our?) luck, a thread on the Redskins moving to a 3-4 was started yesterday in the IDP Forum, so I posted some questions for Jene. He gives a very detailed response. If you read the rest of the thread, too, you'll see that he is of the opinion that the current assumed starters (Carter, Fletcher, McIntosh, Orakpo) will probably do just fine in the 3-4.

I think Carter and Orakpo would be at least serviceable.

Sounds great. Let's do it.

 

[(HULK)]

I know they like this Riley kid at LB, but passing on Bruce Campbell in the 4th seemed a bit odd to me. Bruce was going round 1 in many mocks and was graded the 4th best OL by some scouts.Team after team passed on him, so they obviously saw they same thing the Skins did. He must have some major off the field problems.

I thought they should've taken him too. He's a project though. The reason he jumped up so many mocks was because he had an awesome combine. Watching tape on him, he's not so great.Still, we already had drafted an LT. I would've drafted Campbell and tried to convert him to something on the right side.

 

[Marvelous]

I know they like this Riley kid at LB, but passing on Bruce Campbell in the 4th seemed a bit odd to me. Bruce was going round 1 in many mocks and was graded the 4th best OL by some scouts.Team after team passed on him, so they obviously saw they same thing the Skins did. He must have some major off the field problems.

I thought they should've taken him too. He's a project though. The reason he jumped up so many mocks was because he had an awesome combine. Watching tape on him, he's not so great.Still, we already had drafted an LT. I would've drafted Campbell and tried to convert him to something on the right side.

The goal is to just get players. If Riley develops into a good player, I have no complaints. I had mentioned Campbell earlier because he must have some altheticism to do so well at the combine and it appears Shanahan values athleticism in his OL a lot.

 

[DCThunder]

Landry confirming he should be in the box a lot this year.

"Nah, man, I'm playing strong safety," Landry said in a phone interview Sunday.

Apparently, Landry in some interviews mentioned linebacker in connection with his duties this season, so he clarified what he meant.

"What I'm saying is, what I was trying to say, is that strong safety, in my role this season as far as being a leader, I want to know what everybody does on the field. Even the d-linemen and the linebackers," he said. "With me playing strong safety, I'm at linebacker depth, so I need to know my [run] gaps, my coverages and everything.

"With that said I know the linebacker position right now. I want to be able to explain to everybody what the MIKE [middle], WILL [weak-side] and SAM [strong-side] linebackers are supposed to do in our defense. ... The MIKE and the strong [safety] and the free are basically the quarterbacks of the defense. They need to know everything. That's what I was saying."

Sounds like Ken Beatrice is back with all that talk about the WILLY and the SAM linebackers...You're next on Sports Call, godluvya! And I don't eat curly fries.

 

[fatness]

Ken Beatrice was great.

Call me in my office after the show!BYE NOW

 

[fatness]

A few articles appearing since the end of the NFL draft have pushed some of those who follow to the Washington Redskins into the early stages of buyer’s remorse in regards to the team’s selection of offensive tackle Trent Williams with the fourth pick.

One of them appeared in the online edition of the Washington Post. The writer interviewed Jerry Schmidt, Oklahoma University’s director of sport enhancement. In NFL terms, he’s the strength and conditioning coach. And he was not impressed with Williams’ commitment to the strength and conditioning program while he was at Oklahoma. "He's one of those guys, he's definitely not a gym rat. If he was, there wouldn't be anybody even close to him," Schmidt said. "If he really committed himself, it wouldn't even be close. He'd be the best ever. That's how much talent he's got. There's a lot of talent there that he just hasn't tapped." An article in NFL Fanhouse echoed the concerns about Williams’ work ethic and added that “Most think he will develop more slowly than Okung, not a good proposition for Donovan McNabb in a division where the other three teams usually excel at rushing the passer.” The writer, citing a consensus of opinion from around the league, ranked Williams third on the list of the draft’s riskiest picks.

Williams himself acknowledged his aversion to pumping iron during his introductory press conference although he spoke of it as though the issue was in the past. “I knew I hadn’t given my 100 percent all in my first couple of years at Oklahoma,” said Williams. “There is always room for change and always room to get better. I just kept that in mind and worked hard to get better.”

After considering all of the above plus some reports before the draft indicating Williams’ aversion to pumping iron the natural question to ask is why Mike Shanahan, a stickler for heavy participation in the team’s conditioning program, chose Williams over Oklahoma State tackle Russell Okung.

So why did Shanahan put Dan Snyder’s money on Williams instead of on Okung? He won’t tell us but there are a few things that we can surmise.

—Williams is a better fit for the Redskins’ zone blocking scheme: Shanahan said, “There is not many athletes that are 315-pounds and can run in that 4.8 range and show the type of athleticism that we look for. We do run that zone-blocking scheme. A very agile offensive tackle is something we look for.” While Okung hardly is an athletic stiff, Williams clearly has better speed and agility. Okung does his best work when he’s within a couple of yards from where he lined up. Williams works well in space and downfield, attributes that are well suited to zone blocking.

—Shanahan surely has addressed the workout questions: Williams would not have undergone a more thorough background check if had applied to be an undercover CIA agent. Shanahan is nothing if not thorough. One has to assume that he talked to Schmidt, Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops, the line coach, his high school coach and everyone else with knowledge of his work habits. You also can assume that dedication was one of the issues addressed when Williams visited Redskins Park prior to the draft. On top of all that, look for a substantial amount of the money in Williams’ contract to be tied up in workout bonuses.

—Shanahan does not necessarily feel he has to win now: While Okung was considered to be the better short-term prospect most personnel types around the NFL believed that Williams will be the better player in the long run. Certainly Shanahan isn’t flushing the 2010 season down the toilet by going with Williams but he does risk having less success this year. Apparently that’s a price he’s willing to pay to have a stronger team in 2011 and beyond.

Tandler

 

[Sammy Traveller]

A few articles appearing since the end of the NFL draft have pushed some of those who follow to the Washington Redskins into the early stages of buyer’s remorse in regards to the team’s selection of offensive tackle Trent Williams with the fourth pick.

One of them appeared in the online edition of the Washington Post. The writer interviewed Jerry Schmidt, Oklahoma University’s director of sport enhancement. In NFL terms, he’s the strength and conditioning coach. And he was not impressed with Williams’ commitment to the strength and conditioning program while he was at Oklahoma. "He's one of those guys, he's definitely not a gym rat. If he was, there wouldn't be anybody even close to him," Schmidt said. "If he really committed himself, it wouldn't even be close. He'd be the best ever. That's how much talent he's got. There's a lot of talent there that he just hasn't tapped." An article in NFL Fanhouse echoed the concerns about Williams’ work ethic and added that “Most think he will develop more slowly than Okung, not a good proposition for Donovan McNabb in a division where the other three teams usually excel at rushing the passer.” The writer, citing a consensus of opinion from around the league, ranked Williams third on the list of the draft’s riskiest picks.

Williams himself acknowledged his aversion to pumping iron during his introductory press conference although he spoke of it as though the issue was in the past. “I knew I hadn’t given my 100 percent all in my first couple of years at Oklahoma,” said Williams. “There is always room for change and always room to get better. I just kept that in mind and worked hard to get better.”

After considering all of the above plus some reports before the draft indicating Williams’ aversion to pumping iron the natural question to ask is why Mike Shanahan, a stickler for heavy participation in the team’s conditioning program, chose Williams over Oklahoma State tackle Russell Okung.

So why did Shanahan put Dan Snyder’s money on Williams instead of on Okung? He won’t tell us but there are a few things that we can surmise.

—Williams is a better fit for the Redskins’ zone blocking scheme: Shanahan said, “There is not many athletes that are 315-pounds and can run in that 4.8 range and show the type of athleticism that we look for. We do run that zone-blocking scheme. A very agile offensive tackle is something we look for.” While Okung hardly is an athletic stiff, Williams clearly has better speed and agility. Okung does his best work when he’s within a couple of yards from where he lined up. Williams works well in space and downfield, attributes that are well suited to zone blocking.

—Shanahan surely has addressed the workout questions: Williams would not have undergone a more thorough background check if had applied to be an undercover CIA agent. Shanahan is nothing if not thorough. One has to assume that he talked to Schmidt, Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops, the line coach, his high school coach and everyone else with knowledge of his work habits. You also can assume that dedication was one of the issues addressed when Williams visited Redskins Park prior to the draft. On top of all that, look for a substantial amount of the money in Williams’ contract to be tied up in workout bonuses.

—Shanahan does not necessarily feel he has to win now: While Okung was considered to be the better short-term prospect most personnel types around the NFL believed that Williams will be the better player in the long run. Certainly Shanahan isn’t flushing the 2010 season down the toilet by going with Williams but he does risk having less success this year. Apparently that’s a price he’s willing to pay to have a stronger team in 2011 and beyond.

Tandler

well, Shanny better get his whip ready for Silverback.

 

[Marvelous]

A few articles appearing since the end of the NFL draft have pushed some of those who follow to the Washington Redskins into the early stages of buyer’s remorse in regards to the team’s selection of offensive tackle Trent Williams with the fourth pick.

One of them appeared in the online edition of the Washington Post. The writer interviewed Jerry Schmidt, Oklahoma University’s director of sport enhancement. In NFL terms, he’s the strength and conditioning coach. And he was not impressed with Williams’ commitment to the strength and conditioning program while he was at Oklahoma. "He's one of those guys, he's definitely not a gym rat. If he was, there wouldn't be anybody even close to him," Schmidt said. "If he really committed himself, it wouldn't even be close. He'd be the best ever. That's how much talent he's got. There's a lot of talent there that he just hasn't tapped." An article in NFL Fanhouse echoed the concerns about Williams’ work ethic and added that “Most think he will develop more slowly than Okung, not a good proposition for Donovan McNabb in a division where the other three teams usually excel at rushing the passer.” The writer, citing a consensus of opinion from around the league, ranked Williams third on the list of the draft’s riskiest picks.

Williams himself acknowledged his aversion to pumping iron during his introductory press conference although he spoke of it as though the issue was in the past. “I knew I hadn’t given my 100 percent all in my first couple of years at Oklahoma,” said Williams. “There is always room for change and always room to get better. I just kept that in mind and worked hard to get better.”

After considering all of the above plus some reports before the draft indicating Williams’ aversion to pumping iron the natural question to ask is why Mike Shanahan, a stickler for heavy participation in the team’s conditioning program, chose Williams over Oklahoma State tackle Russell Okung.

So why did Shanahan put Dan Snyder’s money on Williams instead of on Okung? He won’t tell us but there are a few things that we can surmise.

—Williams is a better fit for the Redskins’ zone blocking scheme: Shanahan said, “There is not many athletes that are 315-pounds and can run in that 4.8 range and show the type of athleticism that we look for. We do run that zone-blocking scheme. A very agile offensive tackle is something we look for.” While Okung hardly is an athletic stiff, Williams clearly has better speed and agility. Okung does his best work when he’s within a couple of yards from where he lined up. Williams works well in space and downfield, attributes that are well suited to zone blocking.

—Shanahan surely has addressed the workout questions: Williams would not have undergone a more thorough background check if had applied to be an undercover CIA agent. Shanahan is nothing if not thorough. One has to assume that he talked to Schmidt, Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops, the line coach, his high school coach and everyone else with knowledge of his work habits. You also can assume that dedication was one of the issues addressed when Williams visited Redskins Park prior to the draft. On top of all that, look for a substantial amount of the money in Williams’ contract to be tied up in workout bonuses.

—Shanahan does not necessarily feel he has to win now: While Okung was considered to be the better short-term prospect most personnel types around the NFL believed that Williams will be the better player in the long run. Certainly Shanahan isn’t flushing the 2010 season down the toilet by going with Williams but he does risk having less success this year. Apparently that’s a price he’s willing to pay to have a stronger team in 2011 and beyond.

Tandler

It sure looks like Shanahan really looks for upside potential. And the quotes from Schmidt definately talks about Williams upside potential.

 

[buster c]

just seems to be a gamble at a position where we need a sure thing

I don't think it's a gamble. He and Okung were rated far above the other tackles this year. Okung is stronger; Williams is faster, more versatile, and they believe he can build up his strength. I think whichever one they chose they got a hell of a tackle.edit: The offensive line just got noticeably less bad.

Does your most recent post change your position that the selection of TW over Okung is no gamble?

 

[fatness]

Redskins sign Darrion Scott, adding to the defensive line

Scott was a third-round draft pick by the Vikings in 2004 and played there until 2008, compiling 128 tackles and 9 1/2 sacks during that time. He spent last season playing with the UFL's Florida Tuskers, coached by Jim Haslett, the Redskins' new defensive coordinator.

In their effort to sign every defensive lineman who has played the game since 2000, the Redskins are scraping the bottom of the barrel now.

 

[fatness]

just seems to be a gamble at a position where we need a sure thing

I don't think it's a gamble. He and Okung were rated far above the other tackles this year. Okung is stronger; Williams is faster, more versatile, and they believe he can build up his strength. I think whichever one they chose they got a hell of a tackle.edit: The offensive line just got noticeably less bad.

Does your most recent post change your position that the selection of TW over Okung is no gamble?

No. If any team had drafted him the second round there'd be no talk of him being a gamble. The talk would be what an incredible signing it was and about his unlimited potential. I don't think he's going to bust (like Heath Shuler, Chad Rinehart, etc.). He may or may not have a better overall career than Okung.

Do you think he'll be a bust? You were one of the first to express doubts about him.

 

[Dexter Manley]

- All signs point to Shanahan and Allen employing a BPA strategy when drafting, which I love.- Despite seemingly employing a BPA draft strategy, each of the picks filled a need. (*- The Morris pick is debatable, but the team could definitely use an upgrade over Sellers, whose play has digressed.)

Every player they drafted was at a position of need. I think they targeted 'need' much more than did the front office under Cerrato. They just are better judges of player ability (I realize it's early, but that's the way it appears to me).

You're probably right. I guess I made that assessment primarily based on the fact that they passed on Okung in favor of Williams, when Okung was the most NFL ready LT in the draft as compared to Williams who they think will be a better player. Then in round 4, they passed on OL (including Bruce Campbell) in favor of Riley. And they continued to pass on OL until the last 2 picks. While every pick filled a team need, at least it seems like they followed the value of their board and didn't reach for anyone. A refreshing change from the previous regime who seemed to tilt the board to overvalue the players they liked so it wouldn't seem like they were reaching for anyone.

 

[buster c]

just seems to be a gamble at a position where we need a sure thing

I don't think it's a gamble. He and Okung were rated far above the other tackles this year. Okung is stronger; Williams is faster, more versatile, and they believe he can build up his strength. I think whichever one they chose they got a hell of a tackle.edit: The offensive line just got noticeably less bad.

Does your most recent post change your position that the selection of TW over Okung is no gamble?

No. If any team had drafted him the second round there'd be no talk of him being a gamble. The talk would be what an incredible signing it was and about his unlimited potential. I don't think he's going to bust (like Heath Shuler, Chad Rinehart, etc.). He may or may not have a better overall career than Okung.

Do you think he'll be a bust? You were one of the first to express doubts about him.

I said in my original post that the bust potential is 50%. I don't see why you're trying to bolster your assertion that taking TW is no gamble by saying 'if he was taken in round 2...' because the facts we're dealing with don't allow for it. You are basically saying that at #4, TW is no gamble, right?

 

[Dexter Manley]

More info on Williams.

Redskins Journal

Trent Williams’ position coach addresses the red flags

It was refreshing to hear Trent Williams speak candidly on Friday about his work ethic at the University of Oklahoma. The issue was one of the red flags associated with him during the pre-draft process, and Williams didn’t shy away from it at his introductory press conference when asked whether he ever felt he needed to work harder to fully develop as a player.

“I knew I hadn’t given my 100-percent-all in my first couple of years at Oklahoma,” he said. “There is always room for change and always room to get better. I just kept that in mind and worked hard to get better.”

Even before Williams said that, I caught up with OU offensive line coach James Patton early Friday to discuss this issue. Patton worked with Williams for his entire collegiate career, so he witnessed Williams’ maturation process.

He echoed Williams’ belief that effort was an issue early on, but he saw progress. Williams was a rugged player in practice and played through injuries, Patton said. He started 45 consecutive games from 2006-09 despite suffering from ankle problems as a senior. After becoming a starter with six games remaining in his freshman year, he missed only one game—and that and that was due to a concussion last year.

Ultimately, Patton doesn’t believe effort is going to be a problem for Williams and the Redskins.

“Because he’s so athletic and so talented, he could probably get by working 80 percent,” Patton said. “But I think he realizes that he’s got a tremendous upside to him. He came to practice every day and had toughness. When he gets [to Washington], he’s going to show what he’s about.”

Mike Shanahan did his homework on Williams and felt comfortable enough to draft him. Actions speak louder than words in this business, and Shanahan’s decision to draft Williams over Russell Okung is as grand an endorsement as there is.

The other major question mark surrounding Williams’ pro prospects involves his growing pains on the left side as he transitioned from the right after his junior season

Patton, however, doesn’t believe that Williams will have a problem refining his play at left tackle as he continues to gain experience.

He had confidence in Williams as a left tackle throughout his career, but Loadholt was a year older and thus had seniority at the position. Williams was great on the right side, but he was the first player behind Loadholt on the left tackle depth chart.

“It was just adjusting stances, and that’s really the only thing that took him probably a couple games to get adjusted,” Patton said. “But he’s a versatile player. He’s explosive. He’s quick. He’s got the feet. He’s got the athleticism to block people, so the transition wasn’t that hard for him.”

Overall, the Redskins are wildly optimistic about Williams’ prospects. One reason for that is his background at Oklahoma, which has recently proven to be a breeding ground for quality offensive line prospects.

Williams is the fifth OU lineman drafted in the first two rounds since 2005. Two of them—New Orleans left tackle Jammal Brown (first round, 2005) and Tampa Bay guard Davin Joseph (first, 2006)—have been to the Pro Bowl. The other two—Minnesota left tackle Phil Loadholt (second, 2009) and Baltimore center/guard Chris Chester (second, 2006)—combined for 28 starts last season and are quality players for their respective teams.

Patton believes that Williams will live up to that standard because Oklahoma prepared him with the skills required for Shanahan’s offense.

“We zone block, we run off the ball with different protections,” he said. “Our guys fit that mold of being in 3-point stances and zone blocking and track blocking and being able to pass-protect different dropbacks and play-action.”

And apparently Williams has the required attitude to go along with that skill set.

“Being an offensive lineman, you have that mentality and demeanor to protect people, and that’s what he’s going to do,” Patton said. “He’s going to give great effort there. His play speaks for itself.”

http://blogs.fredericksburg.com/redskinsjo...-the-red-flags/

 

[fatness]

I don't see why you're trying to bolster your assertion that taking TW is no gamble by saying 'if he was taken in round 2...' because the facts we're dealing with don't allow for it. You are basically saying that at #4, TW is no gamble, right?

You're looking for a fight that's not there, buster. I don't think Williams will bust as a starting tackle in the NFL.You wanted to know if my recent post changed how I felt about that. It doesn't.I don't just post links that support my opinions. I'm more a fan of the Redskins than a fan of my opinions.

 

[buster c]

I don't see why you're trying to bolster your assertion that taking TW is no gamble by saying 'if he was taken in round 2...' because the facts we're dealing with don't allow for it. You are basically saying that at #4, TW is no gamble, right?

You're looking for a fight that's not there, buster. I don't think Williams will bust as a starting tackle in the NFL.You wanted to know if my recent post changed how I felt about that. It doesn't.I don't just post links that support my opinions. I'm more a fan of the Redskins than a fan of my opinions.

I too am more a fan of the Redskins...That's all I was asking, if the post was a shift in your assertion that drafting TW was not a gamble. You say it is not a gamble. I think it is a gamble taking him over Okung. But I'm hoping the guy becomes the better player, obviously.your 'if he was taken in the 2nd round' talk adds nothing to your point

 

[fatness]

Your "50% chance of being a bust" means that if he's good you were right and if he's a bust you were right. Way to go out on a limb.

 

[Dexter Manley]

@ Cooley

Chris Cooley gets pulled over during radio interview

At this point in my storied career, I've transcribed dozens and dozens of Redskins radio interviews. It's like a horrible cliche now. I could do them in my sleep. I think I have. They all start to sound the same.

And yet never have I been able to transcribe a Redskins radio interview that included a guest appearance from an officer of the law.

"Hold on guys, I'm getting pulled over, so hang on," Chris Cooley said during Tuesday morning's appearance with the Sports Junkies on 106.7 The Fan.

Then the officer of the law showed up and began talking.

"Yeah, I apologize," Cooley said to him, still on the air. "I'll take it easy there."

When the officer went back to his car, Cooley explained what happened; he had rounded a corner near his house and drifted out of his lane, which the officer found to be an unsafe practice. Cooley had his seatbelt on, and was not speeding.

"Wait, he's coming back," Cooley said. "You guys talk."

As you might have guessed, Cooley was not ticketed for his infraction. He thanked the officer by name on the air, which is the perk you deserve if you pull over an athlete during a radio interview.

"I don't think there's a real ticket you can give for that," he said of his maneuver. "Nonsense driving, maybe. It was fine. Everything was fine."

Like I said, that was a first. Now I just need to transcribe a Redskins radio interview conducted from a golf course porta-potty, from a mountain-climbing expedition, and from underwater.

Cooley, if you're curious, also talked about NFL football. He admitted that the Redskins "were in bad shape last year, from the top down," and said Mike Shanahan's offense will better take advantage of the team's personnel.

"The offense is just a little more advanced from the last offense," he said. "It's still the same terminology, which is nice for me. So all the formations are called the same, a lot of the routes are called the same. It's adding extra elements to everything. We don't run the same plays out of the same formations every time. You kind of have to learn concepts of the offense, because you're doing different things all the time. Last year I ran like seven routes, total. So it's a more involved kind of moving everyone, getting everyone to know what they do type of offense."

Cooley said he wasn't bothered by trade rumors, saying he'd been a productive player for years and probably wouldn't have fetched more than a third-round pick in any case. He emphasized that "everyone" has been at Redskins Park, hitting the weight room in groups of 20, and said "It feels like a winning attitude to me, for a guy that hardly ever wins."

He said his lasting memory of the Zorn era will be "how bad we honestly were," calling last year's team "a pure disaster" and "an embarrassment." And he had nothing but praise for his new bosses.

"The quarterback in my opinion is the most important position in sports," Cooley said. "And yeah, I love Jason and I think he's an awesome guy, I'm happy for where he is now, but Donovan is a guy that's proved to be a winner. He's proved to win. So you can't take that for granted. I think that's a huge step up for us in that position.

"Another thing that I like about Mike Shanahan is that he puts players in position to succeed. He moves things around. He uses the field. He uses his players at their advantage. I felt like that was something that we didn't do as well last year; we tried to say our scheme was just good enough to beat people, we're good enough by calling plays to just beat people.

"And I think what we'll do more this year is put people in advantageous situations, especially our offensive line. Where we were last year, you can't just say everything's fixed. So you take advantage of zone schemes, you're not trying to knock guys off the ball. I mean, our center weighs 290 pounds, it's not like he's driving nose tackles five yards off the ball. So we're gonna let guys run, we're gonna try to open up holes that way.

"We bring in a couple outstanding backs. I mean, both Willie Parker and Larry Johnson have looked fantastic so far through mini-camp, and Clinton as well, so we should be able to be very successful running the ball. It's been amazing watching this offense on film with what they've been able to do....I guess I think we'll be much better. I just like the way they coach."

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsb...ulled_over.html

 

[fatness]

There's some real good stuff in that interview; thanks for posting it.

He admitted that the Redskins "were in bad shape last year, from the top down,"

Last year I ran like seven routes, total.

He said his lasting memory of the Zorn era will be "how bad we honestly were," calling last year's team "a pure disaster" and "an embarrassment."

"And I think what we'll do more this year is put people in advantageous situations, especially our offensive line. Where we were last year, you can't just say everything's fixed. So you take advantage of zone schemes, you're not trying to knock guys off the ball. I mean, our center weighs 290 pounds, it's not like he's driving nose tackles five yards off the ball. So we're gonna let guys run, we're gonna try to open up holes that way. "

 

[fatness]

So who does McNabb throw to? Santana Moss? Moss will be 31 this season, and has only had 1000 receiving yards or more three times in his career. Two years ago the Redskins spent heavily in their draft on Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly (both high 2nd round picks) and neither has been allowed to flourish much since. However both netted 25 receptions last year, and figure to break out under the third year receiver logic. With no other WR threats (I’m not expecting big things out of Roydell Williams or Marques Hagans) – there is a dominant QB just looking to strike up a rapport with either of these guys. Kelly is the 6’4” vertical threat, and Thomas the smaller, volume-type of receiver. McNabb isn’t likely to be swayed by the tale of the tape as he is chemistry, route-running, and ability to be open in the newer offense – but there’s nothing to doubt that a receiver is waiting to break out here.

The next huge nugget of consideration is McNabb’s star-making potential at the tight-end position. L.J. Smith, Brent Celek among others are testament to the fact that McNabb, in a west-coast offense, loves the tight end in the red-zone. Cooley is a dominant tight end that has played in a less than friendly offensive scheme and with a more limited QB since his arrival on the scene from Utah State. And Shanahan like his receiving tight ends some, doesn’t he? Think Shannon Sharpe and more recently, Tony Scheffler. To extend the thought even more – the Redskins Offensive Coordinator is none other than Kyle Shanahan. His last coaching gig? Houston Texans. Their tight end last year? Owen Daniels. You’d be a fool if you didn’t see the signs that could end with Cooley as a top 3 TE this season.

Bleacher Report

 

[Dexter Manley]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

 

[dgreen]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

I care as much about Hall's prediction's of winning probabilities as I do about a Vegas handicappers ability to play CB.

 

[Marvelous]

There is an interesting article in the Washington Post about Ted Leonsis. One of the more interesting parts:

In those early days with the Capitals, Leonsis pushed hard to make a winner. And like most new owners, he thought the key was buying good players.

Then came Jaromir Jagr and Michael Jordan.

In Leonsis's most significant attempt to meddle with personnel on the Capitals, he gave Jagr, then the best hockey player in the world, a record $77 million contract. Likewise, he convinced Pollin to make Jordan the president of the Wizards. Jagr played sluggishly in Washington for 2 1/2 seasons until finally working a trade to the New York Rangers, while Jordan remained Wizards president for a year before deciding he wanted to play basketball again. Two years later, in 2003 when Jordan finished playing, Pollin fired him.

It was a bitter but valuable lesson for Leonsis.

"I did two very high profile big deals in 11 years that proved there is no quick fix to anything," he says, sitting in his office. "Everybody said with Jaromir Jagr we're one player away and that Michael Jordan is coming we will get free agents, his competitive fire. . . . And none of it happened. There's big news, it was great for the press releases, great for the media but not for the product.

"And what I've come to realize is there is no substitute for planned strategy and systems, the casting of the team, the development of the team, there is no magic wand. There is no one person, one player that will change everything."

He pauses.

"I made a mistake," he says. "How do I learn from my mistake? I had a reckoning!"

He throws his arms wide as he says this and a great smile slides across his face.

Leonsis is fond of reckonings. He talks about them often. They mark the milestones in life; points where careers veered and new directions were undertaken. In fact he loves reckonings so much he writes a chapter about them in his book, "The Business of Happiness," which is about how to be happier person, and how happiness can lead to success. Among his suggestions: Give back, get involved, be thankful.

The section on reckonings comes under the heading, "A crisis is a terrible thing to waste."

After Deion, Smith, Jeff George, etc., I hope Snyder has finally learned the lesson that Ted figured out after only two high profile gaffes.

 

[massraider]

@ Cooley

I wish that guy was on my team. i love Cooley.

 

[fatness]

OTA's (voluntary)

May 17-19

May 24-26

June 1-3

June 7-8

June 10-11

Minicamps

April 16-18 (voluntary)

May 7-9 (rookies; voluntary for veterans)

June 16-18

 

[Marvelous]

OTA's (voluntary)

May 17-19

May 24-26

June 1-3

June 7-8

June 10-11

Minicamps

April 16-18 (voluntary)

May 7-9 (rookies; voluntary for veterans)

June 16-18

So what are the differences between voluntary workouts and OTAs? What additional things can the team do at OTAs?

 

[buster c]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

all talk, little actionwhen you cannot tackle the aged jake delhomme -one-on-one on a naked bootleg on the play of the game- you need to seriously shut the F up

 

[Bizkiteer]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

all talk, little actionwhen you cannot tackle the aged jake delhomme -one-on-one on a naked bootleg on the play of the game- you need to seriously shut the F up

In all fairness, one play does not make a player GREAT or HORRIBLE. I for one like the enthusiasm, especially considering what all these players had to put up with under the Zorn tenure. I too would feel like I was on top of the world with Shanny leading the way.

 

[Marvelous]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

all talk, little actionwhen you cannot tackle the aged jake delhomme -one-on-one on a naked bootleg on the play of the game- you need to seriously shut the F up

In all fairness, one play does not make a player GREAT or HORRIBLE. I for one like the enthusiasm, especially considering what all these players had to put up with under the Zorn tenure. I too would feel like I was on top of the world with Shanny leading the way.

I actually had the exact opposite reaction. Every off season, the Redskins have unrealistic expectations that they are playoff bound and Super Bowl contenders. This time last year, lots of people, including the Redskin's front office, thought they had a sure fire playoff team. I thought Hall was still falling for the unrealistic expections of yesteryear.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

Joey Galloway?

 

[thayman]

Joey Galloway?

I'm hoping he can add more in practices and working with the younger guys. I doubt he can/will contribute much on the field on gameday.

 

[jbz]

I doubt he makes the team

 

[Bizkiteer]

Galloway ...where is the PUKE icon or button!!!!

 

[Bizkiteer]

D. Hall is flapping his gums:

DeAngelo Hall: We'll dominate

Views 53989 Comments 2035 Email Print Buzz Facebook Digg Twitter RSS Share 07:15 AM ET 04.27 |

DeAngelo Hall isn't the shy type, and he's ready to come out swinging (fighting and clawing, anyway) in support of a fairly bold prediction. "We'll dominate our division, off of bringing Donovan McNabb in here, a guy who's dominated the division in the past. So that's just an educated guess. That's an educated guess, and I stand behind. I'll stand behind that. I'll fight and claw to try to make that happen."

The Washington Post

http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/...l-well-dominate

all talk, little actionwhen you cannot tackle the aged jake delhomme -one-on-one on a naked bootleg on the play of the game- you need to seriously shut the F up

In all fairness, one play does not make a player GREAT or HORRIBLE. I for one like the enthusiasm, especially considering what all these players had to put up with under the Zorn tenure. I too would feel like I was on top of the world with Shanny leading the way.

I actually had the exact opposite reaction. Every off season, the Redskins have unrealistic expectations that they are playoff bound and Super Bowl contenders. This time last year, lots of people, including the Redskin's front office, thought they had a sure fire playoff team. I thought Hall was still falling for the unrealistic expections of yesteryear.

He's not saying we are going to win the SB, he's saying he thinks they will dominate the division...which, is unlikely, but not out of the realm of possibilities. NYG = not what they were, PHI - can't be better w/ loss of DMC, DAL - uke:

 

[fatness]

DeAngelo Hall is just being unrealistic again. Players in this town are conditioned to thinking they're "just a player or 2" away from the playoffs and that's a hard habit to break. Looks like going 4-12 didn't break it for Hall.

 

[fatness]

Galloway sucked in New England, didn't he?

 

[dgreen]

And another WR is signed. Bobby Wade joins the WR competition.

 

[dgreen]

And another WR is signed. Bobby Wade joins the WR competition.

 

[fatness]

They also signed 2 undrafted rookies today: UCLA tight end Logan Paulsen and LSU running back Keiland Williams.

 

[fatness]

Rich Tandler article on the defensive line.

Good information in it, but there's too much to quote.

 

[Dexter Manley]

They also signed 2 undrafted rookies today: UCLA tight end Logan Paulsen and LSU running back Keiland Williams.

I was curious why the team hasn't signed more UFA's. I read somewhere that they are close to the 80 man limit for training camp. Probably because they currently have 46 dlinemen rostered.

 

[Brunell4MVP]

Just bringing in some older WRs for camp to guide the youngsters in route running. I suspect one of Galloway/Wade will make the team as the last WR...probably Wade since he's only 29 and has caught about80 passes the last 2 years.

We are still missing a KR unless you believe the rookie WR can handle the job. Suprised they haven't brought one in.

 

[dgreen]

We are still missing a KR unless you believe the rookie WR can handle the job. Suprised they haven't brought one in.

I heard Allen has said he believes he can handle both return duties. I think that's why they drafted him - not necessarily for his WR abilities.

 

[nittanylion]

Bobby Wade is a legit NFL WR, albeit a reserve one. He could easily make the Team as WR5 if the Rookie indeed gets used as both KR/PR. SMoss, Thomas, Kelly, MMitchell, Wade...

Between Keenan McCardell in a Coaching Role (Kelly), and Galloway (DThomas), you've got two guys who pretty much excelled at what I'd like to see out of the two young WR. I would imagine that's pretty much what Galloway is there for - being paid to mentor and push Devin Thomas to develop some of his raw skills...

...haven't posted in a while, been busy, but have plenty to share.

As I'm a PSU Alum, I know I'll take some ribbing for being biased, but I was flat out thrilled to see Darryl Clark land with the 'skins. There's a lot to like about Darryl Clark, and I'm looking forward to seeing him in the mix...

...biased or not, he's going to put an end to this annoying "Cult of Colt" for once and for all, and I'm grateful for that. You all know about how I feel about that guy: Nothing personal, I like the kid's competitive nature and personality, but he doesn't belong on an NFL Roster.

 

[Marvelous]

Bobby Wade is a legit NFL WR, albeit a reserve one. He could easily make the Team as WR5 if the Rookie indeed gets used as both KR/PR. SMoss, Thomas, Kelly, MMitchell, Wade...Between Keenan McCardell in a Coaching Role (Kelly), and Galloway (DThomas), you've got two guys who pretty much excelled at what I'd like to see out of the two young WR. I would imagine that's pretty much what Galloway is there for - being paid to mentor and push Devin Thomas to develop some of his raw skills......haven't posted in a while, been busy, but have plenty to share.As I'm a PSU Alum, I know I'll take some ribbing for being biased, but I was flat out thrilled to see Darryl Clark land with the 'skins. There's a lot to like about Darryl Clark, and I'm looking forward to seeing him in the mix......biased or not, he's going to put an end to this annoying "Cult of Colt" for once and for all, and I'm grateful for that. You all know about how I feel about that guy: Nothing personal, I like the kid's competitive nature and personality, but he doesn't belong on an NFL Roster.

With the large number of WRs the Redskins have signed, it appears Shanahan/Allen have identified this as a weakness on the team. So I am questioning whether Marko Mitchell and even Malcoolm Kelly and Devin Thomas are locks to make the team.

 

[Sebowski]

Skins just signed Freddie Mitchel

j/k