Zac’s note: This piece was first published on my examiner’s page
One year ago, I was the new kid in the scouting world. Washington Redskins scout Mark Newgent, one helluva sports writer and guy, reached out to me about the joint budget proposal. It’s a year later and the New York Giants and Redskins are once again kicking off the NFL season against each other. This gives Mark and I yet another chance to work together. Here are his thoughts on the 2009 Washington Redskins and the rest of the NFC East.
1. I ask you what I did one year ago. Is Jason Campbell really a football player?
Campbell has the ability to be a championship quarterback. I argued against pursuing Jay Cutler and drafting Mark Sanchez, in favor of keeping Campbell. He needs more consistency though. I think he showed continued progress in the first half of 2008, when he led the team to a 6-2 record. But that continuity depends quite a bit on the offensive line, which broke down and lost two starters (left tackle Chris Samuels and right guard Randy Thomas) during a 2-8 slump in the second half of 2008.
2. Can Santana Moss finish the season with 10+ touchdowns? Why/why not?
Yes. Santana can finish the season with 10+ touchdowns. He’s going to do what the Redskins thought they would do by developing receivers Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas into additional threats when they drafted both in the second round (2008). Last year, defenses locked in on Moss (and Chris Cooley) will now have to worry about Kelly and Thomas. I would also throw in rookie Marko Mitchell, who has dangerous speed.
3. What kind of year does Albert Haynesworth need to clear his contract?
I don’t think you can answer by quantifying his bags. I see justification in sacks, turnovers, and general pressure from the entire defensive line. Haynesworth’s assessment is his ability to drop the pocket, forcing the quarterback to rush the edge, and draw double teams, which opens up other avenues to the quarterback for teammates.
4. Will Chris Cooley warn his brother not to call Stanley Cup winners in the next 12 months?
All I can say about Pittsburgh is that they export less of the fans and more of the Primitive Bros. Sandwiches. I’ve met Tanner and he’s pretty cool and can handle his opponents. I will quote Cowboys blogger Tanner’s prodigious fishing last year. He does a great job helping Chris to be more transparent to the fans.
5. Who will be the breakout(s) of offense and defense this year?
The offense will be one of the following receivers: Kelly, Thomas, and Mitchell. On defense, Brian Orakpo has become simply awesome. His speed and power will be issues for many offensive tackles. 300lbs+ literally lifted off his feet in a preseason game against Pittsburgh.
6. The Redskins have finished last in the NFC East this year. Tell me why I’m wrong.
I readily agreed. However, if the offensive line holds up, Campbell has the weapons to score multiple points, and a better defense will generate turnovers that were lacking in 2008.
For more info: Check out the Washington Redskins Examiner page. Seriously, go do it.
