The preseason is filled with contract disputes, lofty predictions and failed conditioning tests. But it’s also about competing for a starting spot. Here are the most heated position battles for the Redskins’ NFC East foes:
Philadelphia Eagles, DE » Trent Cole — and his 12.5 sacks in 2009 — is a lock on one side. But Juqua Parker, Brandon Graham and Darryl Tapp will be fighting for the starting spot opposite Cole. Parker, a nine-year vet with 29 career sacks, is listed as the starter. But Graham was the Eagles’ top draft pick, and Philadelphia traded for Tapp, a former Virginia Tech standout, in the offseason.
New York Giants, RB » Brandon Jacobs could be at risk of losing his starting spot after averaging just 3.7 yards per carry last season. Ahmad Bradshaw was much more productive, rushing for 4.8 yards a carry. The Giants could use the 6-foot-4, 264-pound Jacobs as a change-of-pace back this season.
Dallas Cowboys, LT » Dallas decided to release five-time Pro Bowl selection Flozell Adams in the offseason, opening the door for Doug Free and Alex Barron. Free played right tackle for the Cowboys last season, while Dallas acquired Barron in a trade with St. Louis. Free has the experience with the offense and probably will get the nod, but Barron, a former first-round pick, has some natural skills to steal the job.
