Team: Washington Redskins
Sport: Pro Football (NFL)
Stadium: FedEx Field
Head Coach: Joe Gibbs
Super Bowls: 1983 Super Bowl
XVII,1988 Super Bowl XXII,1992 Super Bowl XXVI
Background: The Redskins are still without
much of a pass rush, despite the improvements
in the off-season. Defensive tackle Joe Salave'a
has the potential to make an impact on a thin
line. Brandon Noble, back from knee surgery, looked
good in mini-camps, but Salave'a could provide
quality depth behind starters Jermaine Haley and
Griffin. The problem is coordinator Gregg Williams
wants to play aggressive man-to-man defense, and
without pressure on the quarterback, the onus
will be on the secondary to provide sticky coverage.
There's also the challenge of getting everyone
on the same page -- developing chemistry. With
18 new players, as well as an entire new (experienced)
coaching staff, Gibbs used mini-camp to get to
know players, feel out talent, and evaluate "need"
positions. Training camp will continue the learning
process, but with a whole new system to teach
and implement, little time will be left over for
specialty items -- two-minute, short-yardage,
goal-line drills.
