QB Mark Brunell
He’s coming off a strong year, but he clearly slowed down by season’s end. Considering he turns 36 in September, that’s an ominous sign. Brunell must play well because Jason Campbell is not ready (sixth offense in six years) and Todd Collins is a career backup (40 games in 11 seasons). The Skins hope a new offense reinvigorates Brunell. They say he’s a good fit because of his ability to make quick decisions, an important part of the new passing game. Brunell no longer runs like he used to — defensive ends routinely chased him down in the playoffs — but instead uses his legs to avoid trouble.
OLB Warrick Holdman
He flopped in his chance last season, but is in better shape and knows the defense better. Why he even played so much last year is a mystery. Oh, yeah, LaVar Arrington wasn’t “healthy.” Holdman was caught out of position on long scoring runs, which eventually led to his benching. Regardless, he must look good to give rookie Rocky McIntosh time to learn the defense; the Skins’ defensive coaches don’t start rookies immediately. Also, Chris Clemons is athletic but unproven as a standup linebacker. Linebackers coach Dale Lindsey has coached Holdman during his better years and says he can still play — if he takes a better approach than last season. He’s not a big playmaker, but if he eliminates the mental mistakes he would help.
G Derrick Dockery
By season’s end, the Redskins kept talking about Dockery’s improved, and consistent play. He is big and athleticand pulls well, but we’d like to see more. Dockery looks terrific one moment, then lunges into blocks the next. And there’s a reason too much pressure comes up the middle. He has the talent, now it’s time to play consistent for a season; not a stretch. The backups aren’t potential answers; none are considered anything more than stop-gap guys.
P Derrick Frost
Ah, the Frostie one. Last year’s motto: Let the good times roll. Actually, in his case, it was the punts. And roll they did, obscuring many a bad punt. He also had a knack for hitting his worst punts during the most crucial times. If he doesn’t look better early in camp, the Skins could go with Australian David Lonie, who has looked good in the offseason. Frost improved by season’s end, but will that be enough? The Redskins play in a division where each team is considered good; the last thing they need is to be deficient in this area.
K John Hall
He’s had too many leg injuries to count in the previous two seasons and is clearly on his last leg in
Washington. Pun intended. Hall is a reliable kicker (his career numbers are 74 percent in a league where 80 percent is considered the norm). The Redskins will limit his kickoffs, saving his leg. If healthy, it’s his job.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Keep an eye on these new guys. To fulfill Washington’s postseason aspirations, each has to be a significant contributor.
DE Andre Carter
After two down years in San Francisco, Carter could be in the perfect spot. He has a decent end on the other side (Phillip Daniels) plus two coaches who get the most from their players.
WR Antwaan Randle El
He’s a slithery possession receiver who can also throw. His career numbers in Pittsburgh suggest mediocrity, and few big plays, but will this offense change that? His biggest impact could come as a returner.
DL Anthony Montgomery
Others have flashier profiles, but some considered Montgomery a draft-day steal. Others considered him a longtime underachiever. This camp will show who’s right about the fifth-round pick out of Minnesota, who can play end or tackle.
CB Ken Wright
He replaces Walt Harris as the nickelback, a role Wright filled in Jacksonville last season. He’s experienced; he’s also merely adequate. He has to play like a starter considering how often third corners play.
