Jenkins, receivers also have stood out at camp
One thing is noticeable right away: the lack of drama. It’s a Redskins training camp without Albert Haynesworth failing conditioning tests or balking at the defense. And it’s one without Donovan McNabb drawing attention. And it’s one without a new coach and his gaudy resume.
Instead, Haynesworth and McNabb are gone, and Mike Shanahan is in his second season. And none of the players Washington signed is worthy of national headlines.
But that doesn’t mean a few things haven’t stood out. Here are five:
Jarvis Jenkins » It shouldn’t be a surprise that a second-round pick is playing well in training camp. There’s a reason the Redskins drafted him in that position after all. Still, Jenkins has shown power in one-on-one drills and a quick first step in full-team sessions. Jenkins seems to have good leg strength, allowing him to drive linemen back. He still must prove he can play well in games, but his first week was a good one.
Receiver depth » Jabar Gaffney isn’t going to scare a defense, but he will catch a decent amount of passes. And it puts Anthony Armstrong as the No. 3 receiver, a better spot for him. Like Santana Moss, Gaffney runs routes with a veteran’s patience and precision. There’s little wasted movement, and quarterbacks will be able to trust he’ll be in the right place. Third-round pick Leonard Hankerson is adept at walling off defenders thus far, using his size (6-foot-2) and long arms, but he drops too many passes. Fifth-round pick Niles Paul seems to make a big catch every practice but still must prove he’s a good route runner in games.
Quarterback issues » John Beck and Rex Grossman aren’t exactly reminding anyone of Sonny vs. Billy. Grossman’s passes usually look crisper, but he’s always been known to look good in practices. Beck has been inconsistent with his throws; his deep accuracy needs work. Despite Mike Shanahan’s proclamation of confidence in Beck, he won’t just hand him the job.
The running game » The Redskins clearly want to run the ball more. They also have the personnel to be a better running team in 2011. The offensive line is not a powerful one and will have issues on straight dropback throws. But they’re athletic and can move, so look for those attributes to be highlighted even more this season. That means a lot of stretch zones and bootlegs.
But there are questions. Can Ryan Torain stay healthy? Can Tim Hightower be a solid starter if need be? Can rookie Roy Helu provide immediate help? The running game is probably the toughest area to gauge in camp because of the lack of tackling.
Injuries » The Redskins say tight end Chris Cooley will be back Monday. And that linebacker Ryan Kerrigan should return soon. And that LaRon Landry will be ready for the season opener. But Kerrigan needs a lot of work at outside linebacker and is being counted on to provide a pass rush. Cooley is a reliable target, which is important if the Redskins open with an unproven quarterback in Beck. It’s too early to worry whether this will be a lingering issue. As for Landry, if his Achilles causes problems, then the defense loses its best playmaker. The Redskins don’t seem worried yet, but it’s a situation worth monitoring.
