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Burner’s Burning Questions - Preseason Edition, Part Two
Training camp has ended and the Washington Redskins are in the final stretch of framing their roster for the 2012 season. On Friday (August 31) at 9pm EDT, the team must reduce the roster to fifty-three active players. In this second installment of the preseason edition of BBQ, we will look at some of the questions and issues that are on the minds of players, coaches, and fans.
Injuries in the preseason are always a concern and in the 2011 preseason, a key player (Jarvis Jenkins) was lost for his entire rookie campaign. Let’s take a look at some of the injury problems.
Chris Chester – His injuries are said to be minor and he will be ready for the regular season.
Kory Lichtensteiger – The starting left guard has said that he will be ready for the season opener, but would it be a surprise to see him missing large chunks of the upcoming season?
Jammal Brown – Brown is probably “this close” to being placed on injured reserved. If that happens, he has played his last down as a Redskin.
Brandon Meriweather – In the Chicago game, Meriweather injured a knee, but is expected to be ready to go in week one.
Brian Orapko – His shoulder will keep him out until the regular season begins.
London Fletcher – He is dealing with an undisclosed injury, but is expected to play in the remaining preseason games.
Darius Hanks, Chase Minnifield, Chris Neild – These three players will miss the 2012 season.
Every summer, a few players emerge as “Camp Stars” and this preseason is no exception.
Kirk Cousins – His stellar play thus far is drawing favorable reviews from coaches and players alike. The surprise fourth round pick is now looking like a savvy choice.
Richard Crawford – His determined play is being noticed at Redskins Park and he could become a valued special teams contributor when the season opens.
Chris Baker – Baker could be a lock for the roster after losing Chris Neild for the season. Baker is turning heads with his spirited play along the defensive line.
Alfred Morris – A player that was a virtual unknown is now pushing for significant playing time.
Changes to the offense were to be expected when the Redskins drafted Robert Griffin, III. Coaches have said that they will install some of the offensive plays from Baylor University and take advantage of his running skills. These changes will favor the speed and running skills of Kirk Cousins as well. Where does this leave Rex Grossman? There is a chance that he will fall to third on the depth chart when the season begins.
The Redskins have announced that they will move training camp to an undisclosed location in the Richmond area. The move will become effective starting next year and it is a positive step for the team. Having training camp away from home is the best solution for team unity and camaraderie amongst veterans, new players, and rookies.