News & notes
» Coach Mike Shanahan said quarterback Donovan McNabb would receive 15 to 18 snaps in Friday’s preseason opener vs. Buffalo. McNabb has been sharper this week after a rugged opening 10 days as he learned a new offense and new players. But he said he feels comfortable in this offense. “We’re at a point where obviously we can be very effective if we played,” he said. “That’s not to say that’s our goal or where we need to be.” His teammates are confident they’ll get there with him. “Donovan is one of those guys if he misses you once the next time he’ll put it on you,” receiver Santana Moss said. “I don’t think we’ll have that big a problem.”
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» Safety Chris Horton (groin) will not play vs. Buffalo, and quarterback Richard Bartel (hamstring) is doubtful. However, safety LaRon Landry (toe) is expected to play. Landry was limited in practice Wednesday after receiving a shot in his toe the previous day.
Position review » Defensive line
Albert Haynesworth
Haynesworth will play in the preseason opener vs. Buffalo, opening as the backup nose tackle. There was some question about his availability considering he did not return to full practice until Monday. “Albert’s coming along fine,” Redskins defensive coordinator Jim Haslett said. “He’s a ways away technique-wise. We spent extra time with him, so I think he has a better understanding of the scheme. He just needs work.” Haslett said his technique needs to be tweaked. “Well, we don’t want him to spin. We don’t want him doing lead blocks,” he said. “We want him playing with more power. It’ll make him a better football player.”.
Adam Carriker
Carriker had an excellent day Wednesday. It helped that he was facing tackle Clint Oldenburg at times, but it was sort of amazing to see how much Carriker controlled him with his hands. He wasn’t letting Oldenburg even get his hands on him. The same thing happened when he faced Will Robinson. Backups, yes, but still impressive. Carriker also bulled through a double team in his one snap at nose tackle.
Jeremy Jarmon
Jarmon seems to be struggling a little right now; it could be the knee that needed reconstructive surgery. Also, there has to be an adjustment period considering he gained 30 to 35 pounds in the offseason. He probably has to learn to play a little differently. Regardless, he wasn’t getting much push Wednesday and at times was too high off his first step. Jarmon also has been chided for being too upright in certain drills.
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