LT Samuels, WR Kelly not cleared to practice
The new defensive savior arrived in minicamp with outsized expectations and a hefty contract. He also carried a few extra pounds. The jiggly Dana Stubblefield set a tone for his Redskins tenure that weekend.
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Albert Haynesworth isn’t Dana Stubblefield. But he also knows he must make a strong first impression, among his teammates, coaches and anyone else who matters. How he handles the big contract is one of a handful of subtle plots to the Redskins season. And the next step toward their season starts Friday with a three-day minicamp in Ashburn.
Among the players not cleared yet to practice are left tackle Chris Samuels (triceps) and receiver Malcolm Kelly (knee). Right guard Randy Thomas (neck) will be limited. Samuels and Kelly both should be cleared to participate in the June portion of the organized team activities.
Fullback Mike Sellers, who has skipped the voluntary workouts reportedly in protest of his contract, is expected to attend, coach Jim Zorn said Sunday.
Besides Haynesworth, here are other things to pay attention to this weekend:
Kevin Barnes and Fred Smoot » Can’t wait to hear the chatter between the two after Barnes, a third-round corner from Maryland, talked about how Smoot was getting older. He’s right, but there’s no doubt the 30-year old Smoot will have a thing, or two, to say about it.
Mike Williams’ physique » There’s always interest in seeing what a 410-pound player looks like. He’ll be limited, at best, this weekend so he can focus on getting in shape. And the Redskins sincerely think Williams, who hasn’t played a snap in three years, might have something to offer.
Devin Thomas » The second-year wideout must develop for Washington’s passing game to become more explosive. He has the athleticism, but rarely looked comfortable catching anything other than hitch passes as a rookie. Also, if Kelly’s knee continues to be an issue, as many around the league expect, then more will be on Thomas. Jason Campbell’s growth depends in part on how these two progress.
Chris Wilson » He’ll get a crack at the strongside linebacker position, along with others including H.B. Blades, after spending the past two seasons as a rush end. This is a tough way to fill Marcus Washington’s old spot.
Right tackle battle » It’s one of the few starting positions up for grabs. Jon Jansen needs to prove he’s healthy, can still anchor and react to inside moves. He’s in the best shape he’s been in for a while; will it matter? Stephon Heyer must show he can become a more effective run blocker and complete his assignments correctly. This will be ongoing.
