Redskins player watch

Published June 1, 2009 4:00am ET



LB Brian Orakpo

There was a noticeable difference in his play at outside linebacker compared to minicamp. Orakpo still has a ways to go, but his balance was better, allowing him to drop into coverage quicker and rush with more explosion.

DB DeAngelo Hall

We’re expecting big things from Hall and he showed why Monday. OK, there’s no pads, but his ability to break on the ball is impressive. In seven-on-seven work he knocked away one pass and intercepted another (when Colt Brennan failed to see him).

LB Chris Wilson

We’re not sure of this move to linebacker. If he just rushes, that’s fine. But his footwork remains a bit shaky for him to do anything more than rush. We’ll give him time, but need to see him improve dropping into coverage.

P Hunter Smith

He has yet to punt during any of the OTA sessions, including those in May. But he’ll likely get some work Wednesday or Thursday. However, it’s not that important. The Redskins know what the 11-year vet offers: a grand improvement over last season.

LT Chris Samuels

Samuels participated in his first offseason practices after recovering from offseason surgery (triceps/knee). Samuels took part in most of the work and acquitted himself well. But the triceps won’t get tested for good until the pads are on in camp.

RG Randy Thomas

Already recovering from neck surgery, Thomas added an arthroscopic knee surgery in May to his offseason adventures. Thomas should be ready for camp, but you have to wonder how much a toll the injuries over the past few years have taken.

WR James Thrash

Thrash has not participated in any offseason practices because of a neck injury and he missed again Monday. During the May OTAs, the Redskins said Thrash would practice in June. If he can’t, his future with the club has to be in jeopardy.

CB Kevin Barnes

Barnes has no injury issues, but he did miss Monday’s workout because of a 103-degree temperature. Barnes, the rookie third-round pick from Maryland, is expected to challenge for the No. 4 cornerback position with Justin Tryon, who struggled as a rookie in 2008.