NFC East Breakdown: Redskins

Since Mike Shanahan has taken over as Redskins head coach, the Skins have gone through a massive makeover. According to csnwashington.com, only 15 pre-Shanahan era Redskins remain. Since taking over after the 2009 season, Shanahan has brought in new players.

 In my opinion Shanahan can bring all the guys he wants but it doesn’t guarantee success. Last year the Skins went 6-10 and struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position. In week 15 last season, Shanahan elected to start Rex Grossman over former Eagle Donovan McNabb. Grossman started and played in the last 3 games for the Skins as they finished at 6-10.

 This year all signs point to John Beck being the starter. Beck has only played in one NFL season and is very unproven. And aside from Chris Cooley, the Redskins don’t feature any real offensive weapons. Ryan Torrain is an up and coming running back and pairing him up with newly acquired Tim Hightower should give the Skins a decent ground game. Shanahan always produced great running backs in Denver and by acquiring Hightower he is clearly looking to do the same.  But the Skins receiving corps is laughable at best led by Jabar Gaffney and Santanna Moss. Defensively the Skins need help.

 Their defensive line is a joke which is going to lead to problems through out the rest of the defense. Their linebackers led by London Fletcher and their secondary led by Deangelo Hall are pretty solid. But if you can’t get pressure on the quarterback you’re going to lose. 

I think the Redskins go 7-9 this season. Shanahan will surely lead them in the right direction but it’s going to take some time. Led by their ground attack, I think the Skins finish third in the NFC East.