The team’s progress collectively is bigger than that of any one player. The sideshow nonsense is finished. The distractions are gone.
It’s all about simply trying to win now.
- Jason Reid
- Columnist
Redskins’ progress under Mike Shanahan continues vs. Ravens
Cynics would probably dismiss “happy talk” about team unity. Many would argue that any team could boast of good vibes in the locker room before the pressure of real work actually begins. And Pittsburgh and Indianapolis, Washington’s previous preseason opponents, weren’t trying very hard, they’d say.
But the Redskins’ situation is uncommon. They’ve had so much go wrong for so long, they truly are in a much better place.
Sure, infighting could resume if Washington starts slowly. More finger-pointing is always a possibility. Regardless, the Redskins are beginning on higher ground, with more talent and youth.
“Yeah, I think anybody can see that,” Shanahan said.
Longtime employees tell you they can’t remember the Redskins having a better mix of dependable veterans and eager, talented rookies. They say Shanahan and General Manager Bruce Allen succeeded during the draft and free agency.
After having the league’s oldest roster the past two seasons, Washington will have a more youthful look in 2011.
Many newcomers will get early opportunities to contribute. Rookies and second-year players are prominently in the mix. And they’ll be expected to deliver.
Wisely, Shanahan invested heavily on defense, and he could receive a sizable return quickly.
Nose tackle Barry Cofield and defensive end Stephen Bowen needed little time to show they’ll fit well on a line that lacked talent and presence last season.
Top pick Ryan Kerrigan and second-rounder Jenkins were just what Redskins coaches wanted.
In time, Kerrigan should produce significantly as an edge rusher, even if his transition from a 4-3 end to a 3-4 outside linebacker is somewhat bumpy this season. Initially intrigued by Kerrigan’s strength, coaches also are excited about his smarts. He made a nifty spin move on a sack of Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Jenkins starts sooner rather than later at one end spot. If his knee slows him for a while, the Redskins’ defense could suffer.
Physically, he has impressed since the lockout ended. He has steadily grasped the scheme and the nuances of his position. The rest is just repetition, which Jenkins will get as an important member of the line’s six-man rotation.
Soon, the curtain will rise on the season that matters. From that point, we’ll learn exactly who the Redskins are. And just don’t be surprised if they’re better than they have been in some time.
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