Skins re-sign Wilson
ASHBURN – Santana Moss wants more catches; Brian Orakpo wants more turnovers. And both hope that the change in coaching staffs will provide them the opportunity to get what they want. It also happens to be what the Redskins need.
Orakpo recorded 11 sacks last season, but forced only one fumble — a stat his new defensive bosses have made fun of him for. Moss caught 70 passes, but only three for touchdowns and he averaged a career-worst 12.9 yards per catch.
Moss said his former college roommate and good friend, Houston receiver Andre Johnson, loved playing for new Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan.
“I used to be out there sometimes wondering, like, help,” Moss said. “I’d get a cover-two shell or something and there was no way out of it. I just had to stay out there and play my part and do what was best for the team and hope somebody else makes a play. [Andre] just told me they were very creative with some of the things they did offensively to help him find a way to get open and get the ball.”
As for Orakpo, he’s watching film of defensive standouts such as end Dwight Freeney and linebacker James Harrison.
“A lot of guys who know how to get the ball out of quarterback’s hands,” he said. “I like to make secure tackles so I have to work on being a little more relentless as far as getting the ball out.”
Portis playing with edge?
Moss said running back Clinton Portis probably will play with another “chip on his shoulder” this season after the Redskins signed Larry Johnson.
“Most great teams have two good running backs,” Moss said. “I’m not sure what they’re going to do with the position or the situation. I just feel like it’s something that Clinton shouldn’t come in here worrying about his job. He’s a guy that has proven his point to be where he’s at today.”
Johnson had worked out the first three days of the week. The Redskins signed him March 12; he has not yet spoken to the press in Washington.
Skins re-sign Wilson
The Redskins re-signed restricted free agent linebacker Chris Wilson Thursday. Wilson, entering his fourth season, has six career sacks. He switched from end to linebacker last year and will remain there as the Redskins are expected to switch to a 3-4 front.
Better offseason plan
Both Orakpo and Moss said the offseason workouts were better than last year.
“Last year was a mess,” Orakpo said. “I won’t not bash anybody, but it was a mess as far as we go in and we leave. It really wasn’t structured.”
“Everything is better organized,” Moss said. “You have to be on time.”
