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Redskins' Offseason: Now It's On
Video by Atkinson & Co.
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Team sources said they expect Lorenzo Alexander -- who shined on the offensive and defensive lines last season -- to join the offense full time. One coach said he believes Alexander is nimble and athletic enough to become the team's best pulling lineman.
Offensive line coach Joe Bugel has expressed some concern about Alexander's modest wingspan, team sources said, but he showed considerable promise last season and could help solidify the line.
With rookie Stephon Heyer showing promise as well last season, injury-prone backup tackle Todd Wade could be jettisoned.
Defensive Line
This is the primary area of concern on the defense, with Blache, a longtime line coach, adamant about adding depth. He aims to retain Griffin and veteran end Phillip Daniels, who team sources said may play more at tackle and is willing to rework his contract. But Blache's first priority it to groom a quicker, faster and more versatile tackle (referred to as a 'three' technique). Blache is also looking for a pass-rushing end who can line up opposite Andre Carter.
Younger players Anthony Montgomery and Kedric Golston developed in 2007, but age is a concern at some spots on the line. Blache will be pushing second-year speed rusher Chris Wilson to become a more well-rounded lineman, team sources said.
Linebackers
Former Pro Bowl linebacker Marcus Washington has been injured often the past three years; third-year linebacker Rocky McIntosh is coming off reconstructive knee surgery and, though making progress, remains a question mark. McIntosh also has a potential degenerative condition in both knees.
Briggs, a player Chicago is not interested in retaining, according to league sources, is a talented outside linebacker who can also rush the passer. He could start at his McIntosh's weak-side spot with McIntosh focused on special teams while he works his way back. Backup Randall Godfrey is mulling over retirement again, team sources said, and also considering joining his mentor, Gregg Williams, in Jacksonville.
Defensive Backs
Cornerback Carlos Rogers is coming off major knee surgery and will have to feel his way through the first half of the season. Rogers was not progressing well in his rehabilitation until very recently, making the addition of a young cornerback another priority. Leigh Torrence and John Eubanks would be pushed if a new cornerback joins the roster. Blache has told others he believes it is imperative that Springs is re-signed. Starting cornerback Fred Smoot also returns after a strong finish last season.
Young safeties LaRon Landry and Reed Doughty played well in the aftermath of Sean Taylor's death. Landry is bordering on stardom and several NFL executives praised Doughty's development. Veteran safety Pierson Prioleau, a free agent and another of Williams's proteges, could decide to join the Redskins' former assistant head coach-defense in Jacksonville.
Specialists
Punter Derrick Frost had a strong first half, then tapered off and team sources said they expect special teams coach Danny Smith to bring at least one veteran into training camp for competition. Place kicker Shaun Suisham is also still developing and missed a critical field goal in the playoff loss to Seattle, but has strong support and is seen as someone who could provide stability at a position of great turnover in recent years.
