The Washington Redskins need to rethink their position on quarterback Jason Campbell’s 2010 exit.
In the waning weeks of yet another dismal season, Campbell has emerged not so much as a franchise passer, but a functional one that can survive an awful offensive line. Someone who finally became a leader not through his words, but his willingness to endure punishment without complaint.
Campbell isn’t among the NFL’s top 10 passers, but he’s having a better season than failed acquisitions Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez. Campbell’s finally becoming that seasoned quarterback the Redskins have awaited since drafting him in the waning picks of the 2005 first round.
Notice how Campbell turned more than one busted play on the run against Philadelphia on Sunday into a first down? How he spotted Fred Davis at the goal line for a touchdown? That he ran one in himself?
Naturally, you saw the two interceptions against the Eagles. However, did you watch the final snap when Campbell was face down in the turf, his left arm numb on a play that probably wouldn’t have worked, much less mattered? Did you see the pain on his face in the locker room after momentarily blacking out just minutes earlier?
Campbell is a gamer, more than credited. The Redskins need gamers, not second comings of Jeff George, who berated his linemen so badly in 2000 that none came to his aid when he was dragged by a Dallas defender after a sack.
Washington can’t expect left tackle Chris Samuels to return. Not from stenosis that could paralyze him. Forget signing a free agent. Nobody lets a quality tackle loose.
Instead of spending the first-rounder on Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, invest in Oklahoma State left tackle Russell Okung.
This dilemma illustrates the franchise’s core problem — owner Dan Snyder preferring glamour positions to linemen. A Redskins official told me the 2002 draft plan was to take a guard in the first round only to be vetoed by Snyder, who instead chose quarterback Patrick Ramsey.
The offseason challenge is probably not knowing whether it’s an uncapped year until the eve of free agency. If uncapped, the Redskins retain Campbell’s rights for two more years. If not, he’s free.
The Redskins shouldn’t gamble given Plan B is either injured Colt Brennan or aging Todd Collins. Maybe Michael Vick as a free agent. Give Campbell a two-year deal come season’s end and when the line matures in 2012 have the successor ready.
Why would Campbell sign instead of waiting for possible freedom? Because no team loves you like the one that drafts you. Ramsey started four games after leaving Washington. Campbell risks the same fate.
It’s time for everyone to play nice. It seems Campbell and the Redskins need each other.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Read more at TheRickSniderReport.com and Twitter @Snide_Remarks or e-mail [email protected].
