We’ve learned that Mike Shanahan likes to deliver a message. Did you hear it, Albert? We’ve learned that Clinton Portis is getting into better shape and that Trent Williams appears to be a solid pick.
And now, as the Redskins embark on a six-week hiatus, here’s what else we’ve learned:
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A coach has confidence in Carlos Rogers » The Redskins cornerback didn’t feel the confidence of the previous defensive boss, Greg Blache. He’ll start training camp playing for a big fan in new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett.
“Carlos is a lot better than people give him credit for,” Haslett said.
Yes, there were some — and only some — problems with double moves this year. But the Redskins will not play much press coverage, if any. In a zone, in theory at least, it should be harder to fall for those moves. Which should make every Redskins fan sleep a little better.
The Redskins still need receiver help » Even if Santana Moss isn’t suspended by the league for possibly using human growth hormone, this is still a potential problem area. Moss is a borderline No. 1 receiver at this point, though how much will he be helped by this system and playing with Donovan McNabb? Still, even if he comes through, he’s followed by one question mark after another. There’s unproven young players and veterans at, or near, the end. The system can only help so much.
The Redskins need Devin Thomas and/or Malcolm Kelly to come through; Thomas has shown a lot more than Kelly, and some teammates this winter questioned whether either one would ever produce. One was confident they would not.
The Redskins will be more aggressive » It’s not just defensively; it’s offensively. They’ve spent the past week or two showing a lot of double moves by receivers and play-action passes. Look for more of the same during the season. They’ve also blitzed quite a bit, showing times when two linebackers blitz from the outside, with a safety coming the other way. They’ve blitzed corners; they’ve blitzed outside linebackers to the inside. Many times when new defensive coaches come in, everyone says they’ll be more aggressive. This time, they’re right.
