1. It was interesting to see Roydell Williams slide down the depth chart after Friday’s preseason game. Coaches say not to put too much stock into the depth chart at this point and things could change. But Williams’ lack of speed will hurt him.
2. Meanwhile, Justin Tryon needs to have some strong showings. He, too, is low on the depth chart and he’s definitely been passed by Kevin Barnes. At best Tryon is the fifth corner right now and Byron Westbrook has played well enough that he might earn a spot.
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3. Tryon had a mixed practice Tuesday. Going against Terrence Austin in the slot, he came hard inside him and intercepted the pass. But Austin was able to strip the ball, turning a positive play into a negative. Earlier, he’d gotten off a Brandon Banks block to make a stop. However, that says as much about Banks’ blocking ability as anything else.
4. And that’s one problem I have with Austin: is he too slight to get open on certain routes? Defensive players haven’t had a problem going through him to reach the ball or break up a pass. But have to give him credit, too. Yesterday, he hung onto a pass after being popped by a linebacker.
5. One thing I’ve noticed about Stephon Heyer and Jammal Brown at right tackle is how they line up. It shows the difference in their confidence. Pointed this out yesterday, but watched more for it today and Brown keeps his feet square at the line except when he’s going to set for a pass. Then his right foot will be maybe a foot deeper. This enables him to disguise his intentions much better. Heyer, though, keeps his right foot back and when he’s going to move, it’ll set deeper. And when it’s a pass? Even deeper. Just pointing it out. Also notice how high Heyer’s backside is at the line of scrimmage. He’s tall so it’s hard to get too low, but sometimes I wonder if it prevents him from playing with a little more power. By the way, he clearly is their third best tackle at this point. I think I harp on this because I wouldn’t be surprised if Heyer is a factor again this season, unless Brown can keep his hip from acting up.
6. Devin Thomas told Chris Russell of ESPN 980 that he was going to start Saturday vs. Baltimore. I still have a hard time believing he won’t make the team. He’s just more talented than the other wideouts fighting for spots. He needs to be more consistent, but he’s definitely more explosive than the others.
7. A little plug: The third annual Redskins Ride will be held Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. at Redskins Park. The five categories of cars that will be on display: classic, custom, import, exotic/sports and special interest. A handful of Redskins will display their cars as well. Proceeds benefit the Easterns Community Care Foundation and the Redskins Charitable Foundation.
8. When Bobby Wade fell in the end zone during the morning practice, it showed a little bit of the camaraderie by the players. A couple shouted, “Come on Bobby, get up!” Then, when he finally did (nothing serious) and walked off under his own power. A few players clapped as he returned to the offensive huddle. Minor thing and it wasn’t exactly like every player was clapping for him, but even the fact that a few did was telling. Not sure I’ve seen that before. Of course, I did hear one guy yell, “Get his a– of the field!”
9. Larry Johnson continues to impress with his runs. Unlike the other backs, he’s strictly downhill and when he tries to make multiple cuts it looks a bit awkward. That’s why he runs with power.
10. Studs and duds from earlier today.
11. Story on Adam Carriker.
12. Finally, video of my colleague Rick Snider and myself talking Redskins training camp.
