The defenders sometimes cheer the old man as he sprints downfield, extolling his players to finish strong. Occasionally, those sprints result in pulled hamstrings. Not that Al Saunders cares about such things; it’s all a part of the intensity the Redskins’ new offensive coordinator brings.
And it’s an intensity few can match.
But as the Redskins exited minicamp — they don’t practice again until training camp opens July 31 — it was clear: Though Saunders’ intensity is hard to match, nobody tops assistant head coach for defense Gregg Williams when it comes to sarcasm.
During a drill Sunday, Williams chastised cornerback Chijioke Onyenegecha, a rookie from Oklahoma. “[Sooners coach] Bobby Stoops has a hell of a lot more patience than I do!”
Here are five more observations gleaned from the weekend’s minicamp:
» Wide receiver Antwaan Randle El thrived in Pittsburgh with his dual role. But he was used mostly in the slot in there; here, he’ll shift around and start in motion often this season. His eyes get big when discussing the change. Still, he’s probably most effective on underneath routes.
» Running back Ladell Betts received much praise from coaches, particularly Saunders, for how he looked — and has looked the entire offseason. Saunders wants to get Betts and Clinton Portis on the field simultaneously. Both players can be used in the passing game, from a slot position or in the backfield.
» Wide receiver David Patten has looked terrific, the coaches say. The big question how much did the knee injury hurt his season in 2005? He was unproductive before having surgery, but he hurt the knee early in the season. Was that why he could not get much separation? That’ll be answered this summer.
Patten won’t get more opportunities this season, but if he’s on the field as a fourth wideout, he might have better opportunities.
» Wide receiver Brandon Lloyd might be the most intriguing newcomer. Lloyd made several leaping catches during this weekend, and showed the ability to catch passes in tight spots — when double covered near the sideline.
» Linebacker Warrick Holdman is perhaps the one veteran defender most on the spot. He’s in better shape than last season, which the Redskins hope translates into more game-changing plays. Or fewer boneheaded ones. They like rookie Rocky McIntosh and young vet Chris Clemons is athletic. But remember this about Williams: He does not start rookies immediately. They must prove they can play first and it’s hard to do that in preseason alone.
