Redskins » What we’ve learned
By: John Keim
Examiner Staff Writer
November 18, 2008
ASHBURN — » Rookie tight end Fred Davis is playing more, but the coaches still don’t trust him. Coach Jim Zorn, in another fit of honesty, said just that during his Monday press conference. Davis still has brain cramps on certain plays. For example, there were two times he was supposed to go out for a pass Sunday night, but did not do so. Too many of those plays result in a lot less playing time in the future. Or, at least, it should. Davis has ability, but he hasn’t shown enough to be excited about his future.
» Defensive end Jason Taylor would like to be used a little differently. Like the way he was in Miami. The Redskins did use Taylor as a linebacker a few times against Dallas on Sunday and he generated a little pressure — we emphasize little — in this role. He’s now healthy and coming off the bench. If the Redskins pass rush is to improve, Taylor has to play a role. That’s the only reason he’s here. They can’t get to the quarterback via the blitz, so the answer has to come up front.
» The Redskins passing game is suffering not just because of protection. They lack other wideouts who can hurt teams, aside from Santana Moss. Antwaan Randle El is a nice possession receiver, albeit a small one; James Thrash is the ultimate pro, but he’s rarely even looked at on routes. It’s hard to be a threat when you never have the ball come your way. And Devin Thomas is still developing. They need Malcolm Kelly to contribute in some fashion down the stretch. He’s not the answer, but he can help.
