Alexander has worked his way into becoming a solid part of Washington’s defensive line rotation, mainly because of his versatility and quickness. Alexander will be used at end and at tackle, depending on the situation. His improvement is why the Redskins did not re-sign Demetric Evans this past offseason.

“He’s taken the job that [Evans] had last year and he’s taken it to another level,” Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. “He’s been doing a great job; his stock has gone up. He’s a big part of our chances of being successful this season.”

Rob Jackson, 6-4, 269 pounds

Jackson is in serious jeopardy of not making the final roster, partly because of the so-called numbers game.

If the Redskins only keep nine defensive linemen — and with linebackers Brian Orakpo and Chris Wilson both able to rush as a down lineman they don’t need to keep any more — then Jackson is in trouble. He likely would have to beat out Renaldo Wynn for the last end spot. The coaches have been pleased with Wynn.

“He’s been steady,” defensive line coach John Palermo said of Jackson. “I don’t think he’s been a guy you go, ‘Oh, wow’ every snap.”

Jackson is eligible to be placed on the practice squad.

Kedric Golston, 6-4, 300 pounds

The fourth-year tackle has gone from starter to backup since joining the Redskins. But in that time he’s actually improved. When Golston was younger, the Redskins did not expect him to make plays. They do now. He showed last year that he could do so on occasion.

“He’s quicker, he’s more explosive,” Palermo said, “and much more disciplined.”

Player of note

Will Montgomery, C

The Redskins have all sorts of questions when it comes to their offensive line backups. But there is no question about Montgomery. Redskins coach Jim Zorn said the Centreville native will be the backup center to Casey Rabach. Montgomery has been the most consistent backup offensive lineman since camp started, showing an excellent base and holding his own vs. New England against the Pats starters and top backups.

Quarterback watch

Todd Collins

Collins probably won’t play much, if at all, vs. Jacksonville on Thursday. His spot as the No. 2 quarterback is secure and the Redskins still need to decide who will be the No. 3. So Colt Brennan and Chase Daniel will get more time. Regardless, Collins has had a better summer than in 2008. One reason is because he knows the offense better. But another is because his right shoulder is no longer bothering him. Collins hurt his shoulder in the 2008 offseason and it affected his throwing into October.

Redskins notes

»  Cornerback Carlos Rogers (calf) did not practice again and will be a game-time decision Thursday. Rogers ran on the side during practice, at times appearing to slightly favor his left calf as he ran.

“Carlos is feeling a lot better,” Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. “I’m just a little nervous putting him out there.”

But Zorn said he is concerned with Rogers’ lack of practice time.

“Carlos must have reps,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll have a whole practice week for him. He has to get up to speed as quick as he can. There may be some growing pains there as he goes along. It does take some time.”

Said defensive coordinator Greg Blache, “I’m hoping it’s not something that nags and we have to deal with all year long.”

»  Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (sick) did not practice for a second straight day and won’t play vs. the Jaguars. Running back Clinton Portis (rib) also did not practice and won’t play Thursday. Reserve tackle Jeremy Bridges missed part of practice while dealing with a personal matter. Zorn said he won’t play Thursday.

Right guard Randy Thomas (calf), free safety Kareem Moore (hamstring) and offensive lineman Rueben Riley (bicep tendon) also did not practice.

»  Shaun Suisham made six of seven field goals from various distances, doing one better than Dave Rayner in their latest weekly kicking competition. Rayner missed his first two kicks, including one from 51 yards, and then made five straight. Suisham’s lone miss came from 41 yards.

“I feel like I’m hitting the ball well,” Suisham said.