A Future Built Upon the Past
by Romans12 on Dec 24, 2009 11:02 PM EST
42 comments
I have been fortunate enough in the past several months to do business with a player from the Redskins’ “Glory Years”. I won’t disclose his name since I didn’t ask permission – but I’d be happy to share my experience privately if you’d like to hear more. Being as I am twenty-five years old, my fanaticism for the Skins came to be as our run as a feared professional football team was coming to an end. My few interactions with him about our beloved team sparked a desire in me to discover what made those Redskins so successful and also what created such a passionate fan base. Dan Snyder hired Bruce Allen because he has shown competency as a football executive, but also because his family is deep rooted in Redskins’ tradition. I say take it a step further. Everyone seems to be throwing out rebuilding plans so here goes mine. I apologize for the length...I just simply could not stand for anymore plans that involved trading every player on the team or somehow drafting Tim Tebow six times in the same draft.
One thing that was pointed out to me by this player is that we are one of a few teams in the NFL who had a group of players so dominant that they forged an identity for a franchise that remains relevant today. In my eyes, there are only four teams in the NFL that have this quality.
1. Dallas Cowboys and the Doomsday Defense of the 70’s
2. Chicago Bears and the Monsters of the Midway teams of the early 40’s and 80’s
3. Pittsburg Steelers and the Steel Curtain defense of the 70’s
4. Washington Redskins and the Hogs of the 80’s
In order to make this list, your team’s group must still be revered in their respective fan bases, played together and had success for a prolonged period of time, and played a key role in winning championships. Championships truly solidify legacies. That is why you don’t see the likes of the Denver Bronco’s Orange Crush or the Philadelphia Eagles’ Gang Green on this list. They are the Dan Marino and Jim Kelly in this category.
Now this is just my opinion, but I believe that certain teams (especially the above four) can greatly benefit from building their team according to what history dictates. The Steelers are the best at this. They have their usual hits and misses in the draft but they appear to be intentional about selecting players that fit into Steelers football. When I say Pittsburg Steelers football – don’t we all know what that means? When I say Jacksonville Jaguars football…does that mean anything? No. History dictates nothing for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Washington Redskins football – what does that mean to you? Think about that for a moment. What pops into your mind? Without any concrete memories of them, into my mind pops a picture that is similar to the logo of this blog…a bunch of big, fat offensive linemen. I would imagine many of you see the same thing. The most loved players in the history of our team are a group of offensive linemen. What other team’s fans can say that? Here lies the shame in what we have become…what Vinny and Dan have allowed to occur to our beloved Redskins. We are the only franchise in the NFL where drafting offensive linemen actually is the sexy pick. Why have we been denying our history for so long? We continue to compete with the Cowboys in a player collecting, money making beauty pageant. Doing so is OK for Dallas. Sure it doesn’t exactly fit what history dictates for them, but at least it makes sense for them to do so because, as their unofficial state motto states, “Everything is bigger in Texas”. Texans get excited about big things. That’s why Jerry Jones built the BIGGEST stadium in the league. Also, don’t think for a second that JJ doesn’t take pride in having the BIGGEST offensive line in football. Having big, shiny things is something a majority of Texans will gladly support. The same approach does not work here.
Our owner participating in this adolescent pissing contest has not only ruined our team, but has doused the flames of a once fervent rivalry. The Cowboys-Redskins rivalry should easily be the greatest rivalry in the NFL. I won’t go as far as to say the Cowboys don’t care at all about playing us, but they certainly don’t care as much as they should. Once we get back to what once made us unique, they will care again. Consistency plays a major part in this as we are all aware. A constantly changing, constantly mediocre team is tough to hate. Can’t you see that there’s a reason why everyone seems to hate the Eagles more than any team in our division? The same faces are there year after year. I’ve been watching Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid handle this division for a decade. In regards to football, I hate them. I still hate Brian Dawkins. I hate the entire team because they beat us while at the same time personifying exactly what Eagles football is all about. Blitz, Incorporated is built in the same mold as Gang Green. They have constructed their team based on what history dictates. Consistency matter, ESPECIALLY in a rivalry. If you don’t agree with what I’m saying, read this article and count how many times the Hogs mention Cowboys' defensive linemen Randy White.
On to the plan…
The first thing is out of anyone’s control. Dan – you need to realize that you are nothing but a wallet. Be the wallet, stay in your pocket. Let the GM grab you when he needs money.
Secondly, we need a complete culture change – top to bottom. This begins off the field. Every person who played a snap for the Washington Redskins needs to be embraced by this franchise. Even more humiliating than the losing has been watching Redskins greats become alienated from the organization that they dearly love and broke their bodies for. John Riggins should not be an outcast. LaVar Arrington should not be an outcast. Members of the greatest group in Redskins history should not be without tickets to games as mentioned in the article above. It is disgusting how we have treated our alumni. Invite these men to be part of the team in some capacity. Go a step further to rebuild these bridges. My idea, with the debate about disabled NFL veterans – go out and find every Redskin who is suffering from football related ailments and make sure they want for nothing. You have the money. Imagine the statement that would make.
That is actually the easy part. The on-field changes are the tricky part. The most exciting thing that Bruce Allen said in his press conference was that he will be looking for “good teammates” when putting this team back together. Please read the article about the Hogs again if you have any question what being a good teammate means. Those guys loved each other. If someone from the opposing team pulled a cheap shot, they were all insulted and the consequences were enforced as a team. If a mob of angry Atlanta Falcons surrounded Darrell Green like they did D’Angelo Hall – how long do you think it would’ve taken for Dexter Manley and Charles Mann to break up that mob and protect their teammate? The correct answer is that the mob never would have had time to form. More pathetic is that this team almost let it happen again against the Giants. Thanks AH for getting it.
Fixing the on-field problems begins with eliminating bad teammates. Say goodbye Clinton Portis. Sure you throw vicious blocks and you have made your presence felt in our record books, but you are not a quality teammate. You tried so hard to be the new John Riggins. You have the personality, production, and are even respected the same way Riggins was for the way he played. You are just missing one thing – you don’t practice. You have shown an uncanny ability to place yourself above the team. I was a major CP supporter before I began my research and discovered how badly John Riggins wanted to be a part of the Hogs, of the Redskins TEAM. He vocalized it to the point that the locker room “erupted in cheers” when he was given his Hogs t-shirt, thus signaling his induction into the fraternity of swine. I find it hard to believe that Riggins’ actions didn’t resonate throughout the whole club. If you are highly respected, a recognized leader on the team, and the best player – everything you do matters. I would venture a guess that Clinton Portis’ stance that he didn’t need to participate with the team except on game days resonated with this team in a similar, yet negative, way.
As for other changes with current players, most of you can identify the moves that make sense. I don’t think the solution is moving players necessarily, just putting them in positions where they have the best chance to be successful.
Recognize what you have and what you lack.
Quarterback
Jason Campbell – Get behind this guy as your starting Quarterback for next year. There are no better options in FA. Spending millions in guaranteed money on a QB in the draft is a risky proposition until you can ensure that he will be protected. We are in no position to protect an investment like that. Drafting a QB with our first round pick would be an Archuletian waste of money.
Todd Collins – He can definitely be our backup. I am just not sure that it makes sense to have a 38 year old backup if you are rebuilding.
Colt Brennan – Name him the backup and finally figure out exactly what you’ve got with this kid. It wouldn’t hurt to do something to boost fan morale.
Running Back
Clinton Portis – Gone
Ladell Betts – A great team player. Let him stay and get a speed back in the offseason to compliment him. If he doesn’t perform, pick up a power running back next year to compliment the speed back. Or, go with a clean slate and sign LenDale White and Darren Sproles. Hell, anything can happen here in an uncapped offseason.
Rock Cartwright – Should never wear another uniform.
Fullback
Mike Sellers – I didn’t get the performance I was expecting from Sellers this year. Someone needs to review goal line blocking with him.
Wide Receiver
Santana Moss – Santana would give us more as a number two receiver. Despite the fact that it would cause a logjam at receiver, I am an advocate of going after Brandon Marshall. Don’t fool yourself into thinking Snyder will come to his senses in an uncapped off-season. Big splashes will unfortunately be made. I won’t complain if Marshall is one of them.
Antwaan Randle-El – Even without Marshall, he really doesn’t do anything for this team that is worth holding onto. He is easily replaceable.
Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly – I expect more positive steps for these two as the (hopefully) rebuilt offensive line allows for them to be targeted more in the passing game.
Marko Mitchell – Needs to be playing this year, but more importantly next year. Like Colt, let’s see what we’ve got with this kid.
Tight End
Chris Cooley – His personality means too much to this team and to the fans. I don’t see how you can let him go even if he nets you a decent pick.
Fred Davis – Means we have two Pro Bowl caliber tight ends on the roster. One of the most exciting things about having a solid offensive line is the potential to run some two tight end sets. I will truly be disappointed to never see this.
Todd Yoder – Todd blocks. I like Todd. Keep Todd.
Offensive Line
The whole squad should be backups outside of Casey Rabach who I don’t particularly care for anyways. I won’t regurgitate what has already been said about this unit because, frankly, it makes me regurgitate.
Defensive Line
Albert Haynesworth – Let the man run free.
Andre Carter – No problems here.
Brian Orakpo – He needs to be moved to DE full time. Why do I feel like DeMarcus Ware is a big reason why Vinny forced him to be a linebacker? Again with the pissing contest.
Jeremy Jarmon – continue to invest in his development. Could be a good one.
I’d like to see us make a run at Richard Seymour since he will undoubtedly be looking to get out of Oakland. How do you block Carter, Haynesworth, Seymour, and Orakpo? Bullets, that’s how. Remember, anything can happen in an uncapped offseason. This of course means we release Griffin, Daniels, Montgomery, Wynn and allow Golston to sign elsewhere. I also wouldn’t mind making a run at Darryl Tapp for more young depth at the ends.
Lorenzo Alexander – Does too many things well and is too good of a teammate to let go.
Linebackers
London Fletcher – Coach K has a contract with Duke that says he can coach as long as he wants to. Something similar should be offered to London Fletcher. We have no top ten defenses without this man.
Rocky McIntosh – Played great all year. He should only get better with experience. His progress is thrilling. Can’t let him walk.
H.B. Blades – In my opinion, H.B. is a great reserve for us. I don’t think he will ever be a starter, but I don’t think his full potential has been reached. Continue to stay close to London.
Chris Wilson – I am indifferent on his role next year. Serviceable backup but certainly not irreplaceable.
There are quite a few linebackers who will hit the market this offseason. I would prefer us to fill the void left by Orakpo moving to the line through free agency, thus freeing up another pick to assess more pressing needs. I don’t know enough about the bigger names on the list to have a strong opinion. I do feel, however, that signing Shawn Merriman would be a mistake.
Cornerbacks
D’Angelo Hall – I just don’t trust the guy. I think he is a fine player but there is something that irks me about him. There won’t be any upgrades available here so DHall will remain the top corner.
Carlos Rogers – I am actually against getting rid of Rogers unless he does get you a high pick. He won’t. I say roll with him.
Fred Smoot – Let him be the nickel back until someone takes his spot. Keep your fingers crossed that someone takes his spot. That person should most definitely not be…
Justin Tryon – I know Darrell Green speaks highly of him but he just flat out cannot compete at this level. His consistently makes fundamental mistakes.
Kevin Barnes – Continue to let him develop. Pray that we draft Jahvid Best just to bring the vomiting incident full circle.
Safeties
LaRon Landry – The best leaders put their men in a position where they will have the most success. For LaRon, free safety is not that position.
Reed Doughty and Chris Horton – It’s tough because both men are great teammates but neither one really deserves to start. I might see what it takes to get Darren Sharper to leave New Orleans. As a realist, I probably give Horton another year to lock this spot down before I make a change.
Coach
Don’t kid yourself. Shanahan will be the coach…and that’s a good thing. His pedigree alone should allow him more time to develop this roster as he sees fit. I anxiously wait for the rebuilding of our offensive line and the implementation of his zone blocking scheme that seemingly anyone could run behind and gain 1000 yards. Good luck to you Mike. I pray, for your sake, that results come sooner than later and that your consistent presence and success on our sidelines will garner the appropriate hatred from division rivals and not from us.
The Draft
As of now we are without a pick in the third and sixth rounds. Ideally, we can trade down in the first round in order to gain another pick in the second. The most likely scenario is that a team will fall for Bradford, McCoy, or Tebow and trade into our slot to get him. Legit tackles should be available in the middle of the round as well. Until that happens though, I’m working with what we’ve got. Here is how I would draft by position in each round. I’ll let the scouts do some work before I throw any names out there.
Round 1 – Offensive tackle
Round 2 – Offensive tackle
Round 4 – Running back
Round 5 – Offensive line
Round 7 – Secondary
In round four, I’ve got my eyes set on Noel Devine. He’s got a little Joe Washington in him doesn’t he? Toby Gerhart could be the second coming of Riggins but that seems to be an impossible scenario. If we can gain another pick in the second, I’d like to see it go towards a running back, thus shifting the focus of our round four pick to the linebackers.
In conclusion, we as Redskins fans still have a great deal to be thankful for despite this decade of mediocrity. This organization has a rich tradition that, if embraced instead of ignored, can guide our management in their upcoming decisions about this roster. These hard times will make the parade in downtown Washington D.C. all the more enjoyable WHEN the Lombardi Trophy is once again ours.
5 recs |
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Wow!
Not only do I agree whole heartedly with your rebuild scheme, but the analysis and background info on our history to support it was awesome. Do you see any FA Olinemen out there? Hardly anybody gives up a good one. I think we will need to bring in at least 1/2 dozen into camp in addition to what we have before we sort the whole thing out. Hopefully, Buges will be able to build the line from just raw material and a few vets.
Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
First off
How do you block Carter, Haynesworth, Seymour, and Orakpo? Bullets, that’s how.
Brilliant!
Agree with damn near everything. Only thing that gets me is the amount of FAs that you want to be brought in.
LenDale White
Darren Sproles
Brandon Marshall
Richard Seymour
Darren Sharper
Darren Sproles wants to be paid 1st tier RB money, if we go with the Backs by committee idea then this makes no sense. Richard Seymour would be the same thing, but he’s not even as young (31 next year). I think my problem with Brandon Marshall is that with him being on the field, one of the big receivers that we spent draft picks on would be riding the pine. Not to mention the money he’s going to want as well. Although, I can’t deny the impact he would most likely have in the passing game, I’d rather continue to see our homegrown guys develop.
Biggest point of dissension is Chris Horton. I think he’s done an amazing job at what he does for being in the league for playing in the league for 1.5 yrs. I think he has done enough to show that he could be the starter at SS for a long time.
But other than that, you’re write up was great. Don’t worry about the length, if you have a valid point that is written intelligently and in a manner that will draw in your readers then we’ll (I’ll) sit through the whole thing!
HTTR!!!
SpotieOtieDopalicious
I don't think I necessarily want them all brought in.
But I realize that our pleas that Snyder quit going after the big splashes will probably not be heard during an uncapped year. If you are going to make a big splash, do it on a player where you know exactly what you were getting, like with London Fletcher. You knew he would lead the defense, play every game, and have the most tackles. The only one on the list that I would seriously urge Snyder to go after would be Richard Seymour. That is an unstoppable defensive front. Having a player with championship experience couldn’t hurt either.
I’m a huge fan of Chris Horton’s and would also much prefer that Thomas, Kelly, and Mitchell develop into consistent contributors. That being said, it would be nice to not have to wait anymore. Also, having Marshall would relieve some of the pressure on those guys. They can be the 3 and 4 and continue to develop when we are ready to let Santana move along. Despite the fact that he is not a true #1 receiver, there are few players we can afford to lose more than Moss.
If you remove Santana from the mix and do not add a running back that can hit the home run, we become much easier to game plan against.
Great Post
I’m not down for any of those FAs though. I’d be surprised if Sproles gets out on the market. Not big on Seymour, all you are doing with signing Seymour is retarding Jarmon’s growth, he needs to play. LenWhale isn’t that productive any more and will prob go back to tequila this summer. Sharper is very old to be investing money in to.
I think we’re good at WR. We just don’t have any time to get to them. ARE can go though. Let the kids play, we don’t need all these FAs!
Very good points
I’m not sure about the Seymour pick up and Carlos Rogers is a great corner with brick hands. Also Reed Doughty is on pace for 100 tackles on the season and is really good addition to the team in my opinion. With that being said I agree with almost everything you said about building tradition. The only way the skins will return to being a dominant franchise is when our players value the uniform they wear. Keep preaching Romans12 cause your message is one that needs to be heard.
by JeanBaptiste on Dec 25, 2009 12:31 AM EST up reply actions
Thanks!
But is it really a good thing that our safety is on pace for 100 tackles? I wonder how many of those came as a result of failed arm tackles by his peers in the secondary. I will say that I really appreciate what Doughty brings to the team. He falls into the select group of great teammates that the Redskins employ.
Honestly, I wish we would bulk him up and move him into the other linebacker spot.
Honestly
I don’t think he would be bad at linebacker. He tackles like one and he has decent coverage skills.
But I am an advocate for the 3-4 defense and I would love to see the Redskins make the transition. Yes I know we have a 4-3 personnel but I think we could make it work. Look at the Packers (#20 ranked defense) and Broncos (#29 ranked defense). They were two 4-3 teams in the bottom half of defenses last year. They made a switch to the 3-4 defense and now they are the #2 and #3 defenses respectively. Personally I feel that the caliber of players we have on our defense is better than what either of those teams have on theirs. I just wanted to get your thoughts on this matter.
by JeanBaptiste on Dec 26, 2009 3:24 AM EST up reply actions
nothing to see here, justy more of the ridiculous 3-4 nonsense
you keep throwing out how the Packers and Bromcos became good defenses by switching to the 3-4 but they are the #2 and #3 defense in terms of points allowed – the stat that means the most to a defense. You keep ignoring that we don’t have a nose tackle and real NTs are very hard to come by.
by aFan4Life on Dec 28, 2009 8:18 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
There are a few
Jahri Evans (Saints), Marcus McNeil (Chargers), Willie Colon (Steelers), and Logan Mankins (Patriots) would be fine with me. Chad Clifton would work as a stop-gap while our draft picks develop.
I kind of see the offensive line like a pitching staff in baseball. The taste of success is so much sweeter when the talent is home grown. Speaking of which…I am shocked at how undervalued the OLine from Virginia Tech appears to be in this draft considering what the success they have had the past two seasons with freshmen running backs. Ed Wang(T) and Sergio Render(G) are projected in the 4-6 round range. I’d take a hard look at these two for my late round linemen pick.
Ed Wang
is one of the fastest tackle prospects out there. He could be a pulling guard as well. He is the kind of big man that can play special teams.
by Jefferson1935 on Dec 24, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
I'm sorry
But I wasn’t able to read it all kind of fell asleep ;) but tea I agree with Scott E great analysis
by washfan29 on Dec 24, 2009 12:27 PM EST via mobile reply actions
LMMFAO@this article...
Isnt this the same scheme Snyder had back at the end of the 90s when he brung in all of this so-called talent i.e. Deion Sanders, and all the firepower that came with him?…what did that get you?…ZERO< NADA< ZILCH…face it you clowns dont need to “rebuild”, you need to destroy this bunch of LOSERS that you call a football team…Start the fekk over, and maybe someday, when you clowns are all in your graves(25 years from now this guy will be an old geezer) youll see the light at the end of the tunnel…and it will be like it always has been, Dallas Cowboys running right thru your asses, to get to where we belong…In the SuperBowl…FEAR THE STAR
by Hawgz, Bugz, and FilthyFowl Hater on Dec 24, 2009 1:10 PM EST reply actions
"what did that get you?…"
A playoff win in the last decade.
I openly accept critcism
But only from people who’s team has won a playoff game in the last decade.
rebuild
You can only get players in a few ways – trade or free agents, and the draft. The draft is very unreliable – we could only expect to get 2 or 3 solid players a year, at most. Once past round one you’re looking at guys like Chad Rinehart, Will Montgomery, the Williams boys, etc – the losers you are talking about. Getting proven veterans is a much better strategy. That’s what Dan and the Redskins have always done, quite sensibly and correctly, and is, in fact, what most teams have done. If you get a top player, you’re probably going to have to pay up. It’s not an exact science, you don’t always know when a veteran is finished, but you gotta try. What’s your alternative strategy?
You don't get it Donnio
You need to bring in free agents but very carefully and very wisely. Randomly shooting after every veteran that has been good in another system is not a guarantee of success. Bringing in the occasional complimentary FA that goes with your system is smart but good teams build through the draft and get solid depth and additions even in later rounds.
Sorry but you don’t know what you’re talking about at all. Look at what you just said. “That’s what Dan and the Redskins have always done, quite sensibly and correctly.” That isn’t what good teams do. Good teams build a solid core from the draft then nip up FA’s who go with their system. Vinny, is that you?
by SkinsOsTerps on Dec 25, 2009 8:25 PM EST up reply actions
Child please
That’s it?
Ha, dude… Come on.
Where you belong? The super bowl? Running through our asses? Don’t talk about belonging in the super bowl until you’re there son. Let’s not get carried away here.
Oh, and don’t come over here with that petty little middle school bullshit you call insults. “Aw you’re team is losers and you all are clowns. WAhhhhhh.” I don’t know a single person that fears a “star” or anything related to the cowboys. You are a joke. Go back to bloggin with the boys and get some better material from your friends over there, maybe you’ll say something we haven’t heard before (not likely).
Great analysis!
I agree, we need to get back in touch with the attitude that made this franchise successful in the first place. The rebuild plan looks good, sums up what I see in this roster as far as strengths and weaknesses.
A coupe of things though – Brandon Marshall showed earlier this year that he could be a diva. Diva wide receivers are irritating and distracting, no matter how talented they are.
Also, LL is a huge liability in the downfield passing game, but he hasn’t been that great against the run either. He goes for the big hit all the time and whiffs pretty often. I think he’ll need to be benched, or at least given some competition from a draft pick or free agent, before he gets his head on straight and starts playing smart football again.
I think he just needs some more coaching.
Also a mentor on the team like Sean Taylor had with Ryan Clark.
Clinton
I agree with most of what you said, but think Clinton is still great, especially if Shanahan is the coach. Ladell, too. D’A Hall is, like big Al, a fighter, with pride, guts and spirit. He’s a little small, which may be why he missed that tackle on Delhomme, but he and Carlos give us good corners. How good is big Mike Williams? He may be a terrific right guard (but, despite what he says, not quite as good at tackle). We may be OK at guard (Derrick, Randy/Mike) and center, with the weak points at tackle (At best, injury prone Chris and Levi on the left, nothing on the right – Heyer is mediocre). We need tackles!
We do need tackles.
Even if Samuels is cleared and decides to play again and Randy Thomas sticks around, I don’t think you roll the dice again like we did this year.
The smart move would be to assume that the only proven starting caliber players we have on the line are Rabach and Dockery.
As for Clinton, I don’t question his talent. I think with the right scheme and the right line he can put up big numbers. I’m just saying that I would prefer someone who promotes the team above themself. As the face of the franchise, he has the ability to set the tone for this squad and he chooses to take the stance that he doesn’t need to practice with the team.
Typically, across the league, the players that you and I would call the faces of their individual franchises, are the hardest working players on the team. Perfect example, Drew Brees with the Saints. His hard work and dedication to his craft (and team) push every member of the Saints to a higher level.
Nice post
I agree with most of your comments. The history of this team needs to be celebrated and current players need to know what a special team we had. Even the mediocre teams played with heart and pride. I totally agree with your Portis assessment but his cap number and lack of trade interest will keep him here 1 or 2 more years. It may be a case of addition by subtraction, though, and they may eat the cap hit just to get him out of the locker room.
I disagree with bringing in Seymour or Marshall. I think we should stay away from the big splash signings until we get things righted. Then maybe sign one or two key players to get us over the top. I don’t think this will happen though because I think Snyder is addicted to the day when all the cameras are on him and he gets to hold up the jersey of some new, overpriced star. Let’s get back to the basics and keep our draft picks, build throught the draft, maintain stability and continuity and most importantly start winning again.
Great write-up. I'd say...
1) If we go OT in round 1 (which I’m praying for) then we should go OG in round 2. Levi Jones has been serviceable at LT (not great, maybe not good, but at least decent), and while Stephon Heyer doesn’t deserve to start, he’s a good backup. Get a franchise LT in round 1, move Levi to RT, and keep Stephon as the swing backup. We can draft another OT next year, but OG is pretty pressing as well. If we draft a 2nd round OG then I’d be comfortable keeping Dockery at LG (the rookie LT could use a vet next to him anyway) and letting a rookie OG compete with Mike Williams and company for RG.
2) I didn’t want Brandon Marshall at all last season when he was (kind of) on the trading block, but I’d take him as a free agent. If we did that, there’s no doubt we could afford to trade Santana. Marshall and D.Thomas as the starting WR’s, with Malcolm and Marko behind them. The thing is, will Marshall leave Denver? A lot has changed— McDaniels looks like he can shape Denver into a perennial contender and Marshall has once again shown that he’s obscenely talented. I don’t think Sproles leaves SD either. Plus, both of these guys are going to be looking for A LOT of money.
3) Rebuilding, in any form, means passing on older FA’s if they’re not needed. Richard Seymour and Darren Sharper are not needed.
If we go after any big FA’s they should OL’s, an OLB, or an RB. I’m totally with you on Lendale White. People are low on him, but I got a feeling someone’s going to be very happy with that pickup (the dude lost 40 lbs last offseason and is now stuck behind the incredible Chris Johnson).
Permission to play devil's advocate?
First of all, I appreciate your response!
One thing that I strongly believe we should make a priority is not just building a “serviceable” o-line, but one that can impose their will upon games like the Hogs of old. My reasoning for this is not only due to the importance of the offensive line, but for the feelings nostalgia and excitement it would create amongst the fan base. I would strongly advise management not to accept serviceable on the o-line, especially at the tackles.
I must disagree with your statement that Stephon Heyer is a “good” back up. He is a serviceable back up…still a major project in my opinion. His protection breaks down entirely too much for a professional linemen. Whoever lines up against him seems to get in the backfield easily and often.
Look no further than the New York Giants to see how this is supposed to work. You’ve got two proven, starting caliber tackles on your roster – David Diehl and Kareem McKenzie. Despite having the edges locked down, the Giants addressed the fact that McKenzie is subject to back spasms. 2nd round selection this year – William Beatty, OT UConn. Against the Skins, he steps in for McKenzie and Eli Manning remains unscathed. On the other side of things, although it happened much earlier in the season, out goes Samuels and in steps some leftover garbage from the 2007 draft in Heyer. You recall how that went. It was a simultaneous slap in the face and kick in the groin from a division rival who know wtf they are doing come draft time. What we saw on Monday is what happens when you allow yourself to fill key positions with “serviceable” players. Backup offensive linemen should be held in a different regard than say a backup linebacker. It should be considered a very key position, especially on this team.
I’m not against keeping Levi Jones as a starter at tackle, but that shouldn’t let management off the hook come draft day. I still believe that proven collegiate tackles need to be taken THIS year. What if Levi Jones goes down? It’s 2009 all over again.
well if anyone knows about tradition
It should be Mr. Allen, who watched his dad build upon the foundation that St. Vince started.
I agree that there needs to be some shopping done to help shore up the team and I believe that it will take more than one year, but you never know how it will turn out. I think a whole lot of the future depends on the coaching staff. Namely who is retained, if anyone and who would be replacing them if they are sent packing.
Then the new coach has to evaluate those folks who are here and determine which pieces fit the system they want to employ, or better yet, be flexible enough knowing our existing assets to put into place a system that takes advantage of what we already have in place.
As for the perceived strengths on the team….
I believe that the receiving corps is adequate with the possible exception of our veterans. ARE should be let go and Santana should be used as bait to get what we can. Elevate Mitchell to help out Kelly and Thomas. We have the youth, use them. The TE depth is good and with Cooley, Davis and Yoder, there are quality hands and good blocking available.
The other strength is the DL, yes Jarmon is hurt and Big Al is completely dissafected with the coaching staff and the use of his talents and he may well be right. We could move Orakpo to the DL full time and with Daniels, Montgomery, Griffin, Golston and Alexander there is enough depth there already. We could let Daniels and Griffin go if need be but with the guys that are in place, there is enough quality there to get the job done.
Just about every other position is open for interpretation. We have coverage defenders who can’t catch. They can’t rely on London Fletcher forever although to be honest Chris Wilson as done better than expected and McIntosh has stayed healthy, Blades has done alright but there is very little real depth at the position.
The Defensive backfield blows multiple assignments every week. I thought Jerry Gray was supposed to have these guys playing better, they simply aren’t. I understand that laron may be out of position, but damn, if he’s that bad at that spot, please move him back where he was having success and try someone else…I will say in their defense, these guys tackle better in the open field than we usually give them credit for.
The OL is hard to evalaute, when so many people are in new positions and there has been little to no consistency it’s very hard to lay blame. An infusion of talent is obviously needed here. We cvan bash the former FO all we want, but the key here is how do we fix it? That leads directly to not allowing anyone to evaluate Campbell properly, if you can’t stand in the pocket for more than 4 seconds for over half the game, it is tough to make a judgement.
RB, we could most definately use younger, more talented legs there, maybe even someone who can catch a swing pass.
As for fixing the team, I’m more of an advocate of trading down this year and getting more picks. This would allow us to fill more needs with solid talent versus going for the fences with one possible pro bowler, simply due to the issue that there are too many needs on the team to not take the cheap way with young talent that is more reasonably priced.
I used to be disgusted, now I try to be amused....
The best offensive linemen are usually in the first round.
The 6th and 7th round picks are usually wasted on OL. If the team gets back to .500, they will be getting 1st round draft picks close to the 13th they had in 2009. Baltimore lucked out with their OL pick late in the 1st round in 2009. This is not something that can be counted on every year. There were a few good OL picks in the 2nd round, i.e., Beatty and Britton, in 2009.
by Jefferson1935 on Dec 26, 2009 4:00 PM EST up reply actions
That's not true.
Great linemen come from all rounds of the draft, and 2nd and third rounders are great value for their cost.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
Good points...
Great point about our identity being a dominant OL.
I agree with your draft strategy EXCEPT for drafting a RB. I think the biggest waste of draft picks are RB and WR. They are flashy picks, but very rarely make a difference on the field right away, and they cost a boatload of money.
For every impact RB/WR drafted in the 1st round, I bet I could come up with 100 that were complete busts.
And furthermore, I believe RBs are 90% made from the OL. When we got Portis, everyone was acting like it was automatic that we’d have a dominant running game, and how did that work out.
I think a lot of our problems have come from wasting a big chunk of our salary cap on Portis all these years.
Thank you.
I do agree that the offensive line plays a major part in the success of a running back.
I’m going to have to take you up on your bet though…I’ll try to keep it fairly recent. So, starting with the first two rounds of the 2008 draft….
Johnathan Stewart, Rashard Mendenhal, Felix Jones, Ray Rice, Matt Forte, and Chris Johnson.
600 running backs, go!
The Draft
Sure, a team “should” build its team in the draft. And they should only draft future all pros. And always find those diamonds in the rough (4th round and later). The Skins and all teams should do those great things. The problem is actually doing them. Do you think Dan doesn’t know that? Some successful teams did indeed do well in the draft, but some didn’t. Dan can’t rely on his lousy scouting staff and (current) clueless coaches, so cannot hope for much from the draft – maybe try for some real beasts in the first two rounds. Fortunately, The Skins don’t need a lot of help in players – offensive tackles, maybe a guard, an outside linebacker. Try the draft, get some solid veterans. Snyder’s biggest input should be in hiring a coach, and let him improve the team. Fairly minimal personnel changes, except for the OL, but a better coaching staff. Hiring Jim Zorn was a two year disaster, we have to move on.
good point about the line
but I totally disagree on the free agent run. If we end up with an uncapped season, the BEST thing to do would be dump all the dead weight, like..
Portis – was a warrior for us, but it’s time to move on.
Randle El**- may be decent locker room guy, but cost vs. production scale is severely tilited
Griffin – see above
Randy Thomas – this may be moot. I wouldn’t be surprised if he retired on his own.
Daniels – This is Orakpo’s spot, until Carter is gone.
Betts – how many 30+ year backup RB’s are there?
Landry Bust bust bust bust bust bust bust. Could’ve had AP. Wow.
OK, those are the definites. Now for the maybe’s
Cooley – this is painful. He is Riggo for the new millenium. I would have a hard time trading him, and would only do it for a mid to upper 1st rounder (which ain’t gonna happen), or a YOUNG, starting O lineman. I’m betting he stays to give us the first team in the league to send TWO tight ends to the Pro Bowl.
Rock – another tough one. Great locker room guy. Gives you everything he has. Surprisingly productive when given a shot. Just a total glue guy. BUT, he will be over 30, and he has seen younger guys move into his roles already. I seriously doubt he comes back
Rogers – another bust. Could’ve had Merriman. He does NOT deserve a pay raise.
Sellers – he FINALLY gets his just due last year, only to take a HUGE step back this year. At 36, is he really worth it? Personally, I’d rather see them convert Cooley to fullback.
Moss – Would HATE to see him go. He has been a true professional, and our most dynamic threat on offense. But if we can net some decent picks for him, I’d do it in a heartbeat. I’d like to see us trade him to a serious contender, cuz he deserves a shot at a deep playoff run.
Campbell – I say franchise him. That way we KNOW we’ll keep him, but if another team offers us a few picks, hey, why not? And since I don’t see that happening, I’d rather us keep moving FORWARD. Which means JC stays.
departures
I would keep (barring a great trade) Clinton, Ladell, Chris, Carlos, Santana, Jason. Griff, Philip, Randy are getting old but should be brought back to compete for a job. Ditto Laron, but they should use him right. I don’t think Rock is really good enough at any one thing to stay (sad to say), ditto Marcus, and Sellers is overrated and has really let the team down too often. I don’t know how good Mike Williams is, but my impression is that he is very good – a solid NFL guard who can start at guard, and could switch to tackle if necessary. Same for Levi Jones – how good is he? If we got a good left tackle, maybe Levi could switch to right tackle. Heyer is a huge liability and should be replaced. There is no doubt that we need at least one top tackle, and really could use two. Guard for 2010 could depend on Randy’s return, but we shouldn’t count on him for more than one year.
Pretty impressive that your on a first name basis with so many of the players
By keeping some of these guys like RThomas and Philip’s all you are doing retarding the growth of our young players and putting a old, sub par product on the field.
Names
On the names, I was just being consistent. But on Thomas, he used to be great, and maybe still is. He’s been injured, thus has not had the wear and tear of a tough season. Ditto Samuels and Portis, and Daniels. Sort of had a “break” from the football wars. But all those linemen would have to win their jobs. By the way, retard the growth of what young players? There aren’t any. Or do you mean draftees? They rarely start immediately.
We don’t have young players? Are you serious?
If you bring Daniels back then you are going to slow the growth of Jarmon, who should start next year and your going to eliminate reps from Orakpo being a pass rusher DE. If you bring Randy Thomas back then you are going to retard the growth of a lineman we draft. Top 10 picks in the NFL usually start last time I checked.
This team has a young core, which for some reason you haven’t noticed, DThomas, Kelly, Davis, Jarmon, Orakpo are pretty young last time I checked.
By bringing back washed up veterans all you are doing is extending mediocrity and putting off rebuilding a franchise and making it younger as a whole.
WHATEVER SEEMS LIKE A GOOD IDEA, SNYDER WON'T DO
You can try and make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear with this team, but your logic is flawed. The owner will continue to meddle and play fantasy football with our team, undermining his own staff and milking the fans. I know your heart is in the right place, but Dan’s isn’t. What you have seen this year is only a harbinger of things to come.
I don’t hate anyone, but Dan is making me re-think my position.
by savetheskins.com on Dec 28, 2009 12:11 AM EST reply actions
DAN IS A WALLET AND NOTHING MORE
My favorite comment in your post. If Allen can get him to stay in his sandbox and play nice, there may be a chance. Still, shouldn’t it be ALLEN talking to coaches and not Dan?
by savetheskins.com on Dec 28, 2009 10:23 AM EST reply actions
great post
And it’s in keeping with how the great Redskins teams of the 80’s were built. In 1981 the OL of the Redskins was:
Pos Name Age Exp
LT Joe Jacoby 22 Rook
LT Mark May 22 Rook
LG Russ Grimm 22 Rook
C Jeff Bostic 23 1
RG Melvin Jones 27 Rook
RT George Starke 33 8
So we had 1 great veteran with 4 rookies and a guy with 1 year of experience. Note that the next year Mark May moved to RG but spent some time at LT in 1981.
After that draft of linemen we had 10 years of greatness, let’s repeat it Mr. Allen!
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