Preseason Game 3: Big Roster Battles

http://dcprosportsreport.com/2009/08/preseason-game-3-big-roster-battles.html (http://dcprosportsreport.com/2009/08/preseason-game-3-big-roster-battles.html)

The Washington Redskins are down tot he final 2 preseason games. Most fans cheer that fact. Most fans despise preseason games as boring, meaningless, and full of potential for significant injuries. BUT, to fringe roster players, these games are the most important of their professional football careers. Make or break time. That being said, DCPSR takes a look at what we believe are the main roster battles and players who stand to win or lose.

First, you can view the Redskins current ROSTER (http://dcprosportsreport.com/redskins.html) here. In our assessment here, a * indicates rookie.

Let's first look at DEFENSE.

Overall, I think of all defensive positions, DT and S are the most locked down. Backup CB slots are the most heated between Kevin Barnes, Byron Westbrook, and Justin Tryon. I don't see Barnes not making the team though, not after using a third round pick. Hell, look at the awful preseason Tryon had last year, but he was a 4th rounder so he got the benefit. I just don't see hardly any spotts fro the two rookie linebackers.

Great work. The Skins defense looks strongest to me at safety and defensive tackle. That's good because Haynesworth hasn't played a full season since his rookie year. If he's spelled often enough, he may be less tempted to take plays off. An injury at defensive end could be dicey and other than Blades, I'm not keen on any of our backup linebackers. All in all, though, looks like a stronger defense than what we had last year.

I'm a Kevin Barnes fan and I think he'll be a big contributor in 2010 and beyond.

No way Fincher makes the roster over Cody Glenn

No way Fincher makes the roster over Cody Glenn

Really?

I'd take that bet.

Really?

I'd take that bet.

I would too. Fincher was a stud on special teams last year, is a veteran, and can step in should there be injuries at LB and play effectively. You trust Cody Glenn stepping in? Not sure I do.

I'm not a huge fan of Fincher from scrimmage [particularly in pass coverage], but he's good on special teams and backup linebackers play well on special teams or they go into a different line of work.

I'm feeling out on the limbish -- I second BHA -- Glenn stays, Fincher walks. Just a gut feeling.

Overall, I think of all defensive positions, DT and S are the most locked down. Backup CB slots are the most heated between Kevin Barnes, Byron Westbrook, and Justin Tryon. I don't see Barnes not making the team though, not after using a third round pick. Hell, look at the awful preseason Tryon had last year, but he was a 4th rounder so he got the benefit. I just don't see hardly any spotts fro the two rookie linebackers.

Great assessment PSF! I'll give you the benefit of the doubt on all of your choices since I am not a big Defensive personnel guy. I've read we were the 4th best Defense last year, but I look at 8-8, and think how can that be??? After watching the 2 PS games, and the lack of opponent stops and I still think the same thing??? Looking forward to your take on the O side of the ball.

I have a particular dislike for Doughty, Tryon, and Old Timer Wynn.