News:Robert Griffin III might have been the big name the Redskins took in the NFL Draft, but they also picked up three defenders: Texas linebacker Keenan Robinson, SMU cornerback Richard Crawford and Iowa safety Jordan Bernstine. They join seven veterans including safeties Brandon Meriweather and Tanard Jackson as new additions to the Redskins defense.
Analysis: This rookie trio will provide depth on defense and special teams and probably won't make much of an impact this year. There could be some iffy moments for the Redskins secondary in 2012 given their vulnerable safeties. No one should draft them as a No. 1 unit -- they're best left on waivers to use as a potential one-week replacement during the season. They'll probably struggle in Week 1 at New Orleans.
News: Former Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris says he has agreed to coach the Washington Redskins' defensive backs. "I'm a football coach. This is what I do, it's who I am," Morris told the St. Petersburg Times, which reported his hiring Thursday. Morris will be reunited with general manager Bruce Allen, who was the GM in Tampa Bay when Morris returned from a one-year stint as Kansas State's defensive coordinator to coach the Buccaneers defensive backs. Morris was Tampa Bay's defensive backfield coach for four seasons. He replaced Monte Kiffin as defensive coordinator in 2008 and Tampa Bay promoted him to head coach in 2009 replacing Jon Gruden. He had a 17-31-0 record in three years as head coach.
Analysis: The Redskins secondary played fairly well for the first half of the season before bottoming out toward the end. Morris' coaching should help a unit rich on big-name guys but not necessarily on consistent quality. This is a step forward for the Redskins DST but far from what they need to be considered a draft-worthy option this summer.
News: The Redskins DST was terrible on Saturday in a Week 16 home loss to the Vikings. The Redskins DST managed to injured RB Adrian Peterson and starting QB Christian Ponder in the game, but replacements Toby Gerhart and Joe Webb actually seemed like improvements against the defense. The Redskins DST gave up 389 total yards of offense in the 33-26 loss. The Redskins DST did not force a single turnover and only managed two sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins DST had its first good game last week at the Giants since Week 4 at St. Louis. They turned right around and put up a stinker on Saturday of Week 16. The Redskins DST has been disappointing all season and that should continue Week 17 at Philadelphia. The Redskins DST is not a recommended Fantasy option.
News: The Redskins DST has not been a very good unit for most of this season. Entering Week 16 against Minnesota, however, they have a pretty solid matchup ahead of them. The Redskins DST is facing a Vikings team allowing the third-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units on the year. Washington has been one of the best teams in the NFL in getting to the quarterback and the Vikings have allowed at least three sacks in seven straight games and eight of nine. The Vikings have also thrown six interceptions in the last three weeks.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is coming off one of its better efforts last week in New York. In fact, two of the unit's top three performances have come against the Giants. In any case, the Redskins DST picked up a season-high-tying four turnovers forced last week and held the Giants to just 10 points. The Vikings are a mess and the Redskins DST could have a second-straight solid effort Week 16. We like this matchup so much the Redskins DST can be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Redskins DST pulled out an improbable victory over the Giants in New York on Sunday of Week 15. The Redskins DST held Eli Manning and the Giants to 324 yards in the game, but forced three Manning interceptions en route to winning 23-10. The Redskins DST forced those three picks from Manning as the only turnovers forced in the game. The Redskins DST sacked Manning three times in the performance.
Analysis: The Redskins DST finally had a solid performance with three turnovers forced and three sacks. The three turnovers match the Redskins DST previous four games combined. Heading into Week 16 against the Vikings, the Redskins DST could be a decent unit to pick up in a pinch. The Vikings are terrible and the Redskins DST could be on a roll. That said, they are still just a low-end option for Week 16.
News: The Redskins DST continues to be an underachieving unit heading into Week 15 at the Giants. The Redskins DST faced the Giants Week 1 of the season and was solid with 14 points allowed, two turnovers forced, four sacks and a defensive touchdown against New York. Washington must play in New York this time around and the Giants have been one of the highest scoring teams in the NFL since opening Week 1 with 14 points against the Redskins.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been an awful unit since Week 4 of the season. They have only recorded double figures in Fantasy scoring three times since that game and have not been over 10 points over that span. Washington has just one sack and one turnover forced in its last two games combined as the Jets and Patriots have run up the score on them. The Giants should do the same. The Redskins DST is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 15.
News: The Redskins DST couldn't stop the Patriots enough times on Sunday of Week 14 in Washington. The Redskins DST gave up 431 total yards to Tom Brady and the Patriots as New England squeaked out a 34-27 victory with an interception on Washington's final drive with time nearly expiring. The Redskins DST forced one Brady turnover in the game as they picked him off in the end zone late in the game. The Redskins DST picked up just one sack of Brady in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has now allowed 68 points scored in the last two games against the Jets and Patriots as New England threw the ball all over them Week 14. The Redskins DST has not topped 10 Fantasy points since Week 4 at St. Louis. The Redskins DST should struggle once again Week 15 at the Giants. New York scores plenty of points and Fantasy owners should go in a different direction for the Week 15 game.
News: The Redskins DST heads into Week 14 at home against New England facing a team that is among the best in the NFL at racking up yards and putting up points. The Patriots are allowing the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units on the season and that does not bode well for the Redskins DST.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been an underwhelming unit just about all season long. Since racking up seven sacks, two turnovers and limiting the Rams to just 172 yards and 10 points Week 4, the Redskins DST hasn't topped 10 Fantasy points in any contest. The Redskins DST have been disappointing and the unit is not a recommended start for Week 14.
News: The Redskins DST only gave up 266 yards of total offense on Sunday at home against the New York Jets. The Redskins DST held the Jets in check all game and had a lead until the fourth quarter. The DST coughed up that lead, however, and Washington lost the home game 34-19. The Redskins DST forced just one turnover in the game on a muffed punt return by the Jets. The Redskins DST also failed to record a single sack for the first time all season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been a terrible unit since Week 4 of the season and the failure to record a single sack Sunday shows they aren't improving any going forward. The Redskins DST faces New England's high-powered offense Week 14. The Patriots will tear them apart. The Redskins DST is not a recommended Fantasy unit for Week 14.
News: The Redskins DST hasn't topped 10 Fantasy points since Week 4 at St. Louis. The DST for Washington has really underwhelmed since that game against the Rams. Heading into Week 13 against the Jets, that could change. The Jets are allowing the second-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units this season. The Jets have allowed the most defensive or special teams touchdowns in the NFL this season by two as only the Rams are allowing more Fantasy points per game against DSTs.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has had at least two sacks in all but one game this season but the unit is not forcing turnover or making big plays. If the Redskins DST scores a DTD Week 13, it would be a surprise. Fantasy owners might want to take a chance on the Redskins DST in Week 13 if their other options have tough matchups. However, the Redskins DST is just a No. 2 Fantasy unit, at best, against the Jets.
News: The Redskins DST helped the team snap a six-game losing streak on Sunday in Seattle. The Redskins DST limited the Seahawks to 250 total yards in a 23-17 Week 12 victory that snapped the longest losing streak of coach Mike Shanahan's career. The Redskins DST only could force one turnover in the game, but they got to QB Tarvaris Jackson for two sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has really been an underwhelming unit since a big game Week 4 at St. Louis. Despite pulling the win on Sunday, that didn't really change. The Redskins DST still only managed two sacks and one turnover forced. Heading into Week 13 against the Jets, the Redskins DST remains a lower-end Fantasy unit.
News: The Redskins DST heads into Week 12 at Seattle having to travel across the country in order to attempt to squash a six-game losing streak. Over the course of that streak, the Redskins DST has only scored in double figures twice, and both times they had just 10. The unit simply isn't forcing turnovers and the opposition's passing game has been wide open with the secondary devastated by injuries. That said, the Seahawks could be the answer. Seattle is allowing the second-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs on the year.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was actually a pretty good unit over the first few weeks of the season. Washington's ugly offense and a rash of injuries have put a damper on that and the Redskins DST is barely worth owning at this point. For Week 12, Seattle has actually been improving in limiting turnovers and sacks of late. With Seattle playing better and the Redskins a mess, Fantasy owners should probably just stay away from the Redskins DST in Week 12.
News: The Redskins DST put forth a decent effort on Sunday at home against the Cowboys. The Redskins DST gave up 353 total yards of offense, but had a chance to win the game in overtime. That said, Graham Gano missed a 52-yard field goal and the Cowboys took the game, 27-24. The Redskins DST could not force a single Dallas turnover, however, though they did sack Tony Romo four times.
Analysis: The Redskins DST finally got to the quarterback again with Romo behind center. The four sacks are the most they have had since Week 7 at Carolina. That said, Washington couldn't force a single turnover in the Week 11 game and that has been the norm against good teams. Facing the Seahawks in Seattle Week 12, the Redskins DST is just not a recommended Fantasy unit.
News: The Redskins DST has been an underwhelming Fantasy option since the team's bye in Week 5. The Redskins DST has not topped 10 Fantasy points in five consecutive losses and the offense has been even worse. In fact, the offense is really hurting the hard-hitting defense, which was actually quite solid earlier in the year. Washington has not recorded more than two sacks since Week 7 and the three turnovers forced Week 10 against Miami was the unit's most since Week 3.
Analysis: That Week 3 game was also the last time the Redskins DST faced the Cowboys. Playing at Dallas, the Redskins DST forced three fumbles and a Tony Romo interception, but only sacked Romo once in the game in a loss. The Redskins are much more dismal this time around, so nothing much is expected of the DST. Fantasy owners have rightly lost faith in the Redskins DST. Consider them a last-resort Fantasy unit for Week 11.
News: The Redskins DST gave up a quick touchdown to the Dolphins in Miami on Sunday as Reggie Bush scored from 1-yard out. The Redskins DST gave up points in each quarter in the Week 10 loss and fell to the Dolphins 20-9. The DST allowed Miami 303 total yards of offense in the game. The Redskins DST forced two turnovers and also sacked QB Matt Moore twice. Ryan Kerrigan had both sacks to go with six tackles and a forced fumble in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has underwhelmed in four straight performances and wasn't great in Week 6 against Philadelphia, either. Considering the team plays Dallas in Week 11, we doubt they will turn things around as they registered just nine Fantasy points Week 3 in Dallas. Fantasy owners should look for better DST options in Week 11.
News: The Redskins DST held the 49ers to just 19 points scored in Week 9, but still took the loss and finished with fewer than double digits in Fantasy points. Heading into Week 10 at Miami, the Redskins DST is looking to record over 10 Fantasy points for the first time since Week 4 at St. Louis. Washington has only forced one turnover in three straight games and they have not been getting to the quarterback with as much regularity after picking up seven sacks in that Week 4 game against the Rams.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been terrible in three straight games now and they appear to be dejected with the way the offense is playing. While we don't see the offense improving much heading into the game against the Dolphins, Miami isn't very good and the competitiveness of the game should make for a better effort for the Redskins DST. Miami's Matt Moore should be taken down often by the Redskins in the game, but the Dolphins have been better at limiting mistakes lately. The Redskins DST has underwhelmed recently and is just a No. 2 Fantasy option for the Week 10 game.
News: The Redskins DST kept the 49ers in check for much of the Week 9 loss at home. That said, Washington couldn't score and still lost the game, 19-11. The Redskins DST gave up 323 total yards of offense in the contest and forced just one turnover. The turnover came when Vernon Davis lost a fumble. Alex Smith was very sure-handed with the football and the Washington defense could do little to force turnovers. The Redskins DST managed two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been terrible in three straight games now and they appear to be dejected with the way the offense is playing. The offense doesn't give the defense any time to rest and that is really bringing the DST unit down as a whole. Heading into Week 10 at Miami, however, the Redskins DST could be in for a jump start against a struggling Miami team. Still, Miami just beat up on Kansas City in Week 9, so the Redskins DST is probably best suited for your bench or on waivers.
News: The Redskins DST recorded 21 Fantasy points Week 4 at St. Louis. In three games since against the Eagles and at Carolina and Buffalo, the Redskins DST has mustered just 22 total points combined. The offense has been dismal and is has been affecting the defense as well as Washington only has four turnovers forced in the last three games with eight sacks over that span. The Redskins DST has allowed at least 390 total yards and 20 points in three straight games after basically not doing that at all in the first four games of the season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been falling apart in recent weeks and most of that either has to do with injury or the fact that the offense can't keep the defense off the field. On the other hand, San Francisco has been nearly impossible for opposing DSTs to have good games against. The Niners have never allowed an opposing DST to net more than eight Fantasy points. Washington might be able to get to QB Alex Smith with regularity, but little else is expected of the unit in Week 9. Consider the Redskins DST just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 9.
News: The Redskins DST didn't have much of a chance on Sunday of Week 8 in a loss to Buffalo from Toronto. The Redskins' offense didn't score a single point in the 23-0 defeat. The Redskins DST gave up 390 total yards to QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Bills in the game. Washington did force two turnovers, but did nothing with them. The Redskins DST sacked Fitzpatrick twice in the contest.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has now put together back-to-back horrendous efforts for Fantasy owners. The offense is imploding and it seems to be costing the defense dearly as well. Heading into Week 9 against San Francisco, the Redskins DST is simply too risky a unit to use. Consider other DST options heading into Week 9.
News: Washington will have to slow down a Buffalo offense that boasts one of the best rushing attacks and has been racking up more than 375 total yards of offense per game this season. The Bills are also averaging 31.3 points per game, which is third highest in the NFL. The Redskins have 21 sacks this year (tied for most in the league), so they'll have to continue to put pressure on the quarterback this Sunday if they want to win the game. Opposing DSTs are averaging just 3.50 Fantasy points per contest against the Bills this season.
Analysis: Washington is coming off a game where they didn't force a turnover, something that they'll have to do to give their offense a chance. If the Redskins can continue to get to the quarterback, Ryan Fitzpatrick could be in for a long day. Fantasy owners should view Washington's DST as a No. 2 option for Week 8.
News: The Redskins DST couldn't force Cam Newton and the Panthers into many mistakes and turnovers on Sunday of Week 7. It cost the team the game as the Panthers won 33-20. The Redskins DST allowed Newton and the Panthers to rack up 407 yards of offense in the game. Washington did not force a single turnover and sacked Newton four times on the afternoon.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been good at getting to the quarterback all season, so you knew they'd get to the agile Newton a handful of times. Still, Newton got the better of the Redskins as Michael Vick and the Eagles did in Week 6. The Redskins DST has not been a sharp unit the last two weeks and they appeared to be tired on Sunday. Heading into Week 8 at Buffalo, the Redskins DST should only be considered a low-end Fantasy start.
News: The Redskins DST underwhelmed Week 6 against the Eagles and still managed to come away with double-digit Fantasy points. The defense didn't allow the Eagles to score after halftime, despite Rex Grossman throwing four interceptions and keeping the defense on the field longer than expected. Heading into Week 7 at Carolina, the Redskins DST should have an easier task ahead of them against rookie QB Cam Newton. The Panthers are allowing the seventh-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units. Newton is coming off his second three-interception game of the season against the Falcons Week 6, and the Redskins are concentrating more on forcing turnovers heading into the game against the Panthers.
Analysis: The Redskins DST only managed two sacks in Week 6 against Michael Vick, so they might have trouble with the shifty QB Newton. They likely won't come close to the seven sacks they had Week 4 against Sam Bradford and the Rams. That said, Washington wants to force turnovers as the defense needs to create points for the poor offensive club. We expect the Redskins DST to come out flying after losing to the Eagles in Week 6. Consider the Redskins DST a No. 1 Fantasy unit for the Week 7 contest.
News: The Redskins DST did not give a great effort in the Week 6 loss to the Eagles in Washington. The DST allowed Michael Vick and the Eagles to rack up 422 total yards in the 20-13 loss. Washington forced two turnovers as Vick and Vince Young each threw an interception in the game. Washington finished with two sacks of Vick in the game after recording seven sacks at St. Louis in Week 4 before a bye week.
Analysis: The Redskins DST wasn't terrible in the Week 6 loss, but they weren't very opportune either. There were several balls that could have been picked off that Washington missed out on. The Redskins DST has been a solid unit all season and that should continue heading into Week 7 at Carolina. Feel free to continue starting the Redskins DST against the Panthers, especially after Cam Newton had a poor game Week 6 against the Falcons.
News: The Redskins DST is coming off a bye and is as healthy as they've been all season entering Week 6 at home against Philadelphia. The Eagles are coming off an ugly loss at Buffalo, and the Redskins DST came up huge in Week 4 at St. Louis with just 10 points and 172 yards allowed to go with seven sacks. Outside a game in Dallas in Week 3, the Redskins have 14 sacks in three games this season and they are absolutely setting Michael Vick, who has already suffered numerous injuries this season, in their sights.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is healthy and rested and coming off their best game of the season against the Rams. The Eagles are reeling and tired and are coming off one of their worst games in Buffalo. Plus, Philadelphia is allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs on the season and have been getting worse by the game. Vick has thrown six interceptions in the last three games and the Eagles have been picked eight times overall over that span. The stars are aligning for a solid game for the Redskins DST in Week 6. Consider them a solid choice as a No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Redskins DST had to overcome Rex Grossman's mistakes at the end of the Week 4 win over the Rams. The defense held St. Louis down for most of the game, as they were pitching a shutout through three quarters. Two fourth-quarter interceptions by Grossman led to 10 St. Louis points as Washington won 17-10. The Redskins DST held the Rams to just 172 total yards of offense in the win. Washington only forced one turnover on a fumble by QB Sam Bradford. Bradford did not throw an interception in the game and was sacked seven times by the Redskins.
Analysis: Brian Orakpo and Stephen Bowen combined for four of the seven sacks against Bradford in the Week 4 win for Washington. The seven sacks were the most on the season for Washington, which now has 15 sacks in four games along with 10 turnovers forced. The Redskins DST has been solid thus far this season, but should not be used heading into Week 5. That is because Washington has a bye Week 5. The Redskins return Week 6 against the Eagles and will be a unit worth starting for that game.
News: The Redskins DST started off with a bang this season with four sacks and a defensive touchdown against the Giants Week 1. They've had just four sacks since in games against the Cardinals and Cowboys. Still, that defense has allowed at most 375 yards and 21 points in a game and has been very solid, especially at giving up touchdowns. That bodes well facing a Rams team that has scored just three touchdowns on the year and is tied for the second-fewest scored TDs in the NFL.
Analysis: The Rams are allowing the most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units this season as they've given up a defensive and special teams touchdown in all three games thus far. Sam Bradford has also been a beaten man and the Redskins DST can smell his fear. Consider the Redskins DST a No. 1 Fantasy unit for Week 4 against this limited offense.
News: The Redskins DST was able to limit an injured Cowboys team on Monday night in Dallas in Week 3. In fact, Washington allowed 375 total yards but did not let the Cowboys score a touchdown all night. That said, the Redskins still lost the game 18-16 as Dallas hit six field goals. The Redskins DST forced two turnovers as QB Tony Romo was intercepted and receiver Kevin Ogletree lost a fumble in the game. Washington rushed Romo all night but came away with just one sack by Ryan Kerrigan. The bright spot was the return of LaRon Landry, who was all over the field for the Redskins.
Analysis: The Redskins DST put up a dud against an injured Romo and company on Monday night. Blitzing all night. they couldn't put enough pressure on Romo for him to make enough mistakes. They failed to get to Romo as they had the first two weeks against the Giants and Cardinals. After two less-than-stellar efforts, Washington could bounce-back Week 4 at St. Louis. The Rams have not been inspiring and the Redskins DST could be used in a pinch in any Fantasy league.
News: The Redskins defense will be facing a Cowboys offense in Week 3 that will be pretty banged up. WRs Miles Austin (hamstring) and Dez Bryant (thigh) might not play as well as RB Felix Jones (shoulder). QB Tony Romo is also coming off some cracked ribs and punctured lung. Dallas ranks third in the league in passing and 31st in rushing while Washington ranks 17th and eighth against the pass and run, respectively.
Analysis: The Redskins have given up some points in their first two contests but they have been able to buckle down late in games to come away with the win in both. With how banged up the Cowboys are entering Monday night, Washington could be a sleeper in Fantasy this week. Continue to monitor the status of the skill position players going forward and consider the Redskins DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: The Redskins DST came up big when it mattered most on Sunday of Week 2 at home against the Cardinals. Washington forced a Chansi Stuckey fumble on Arizona's final drive to secure a 22-21 victory and improve to 2-0 on the season. The Redskins DST held the Cardinals to 324 total yards in the game as they forced two turnovers. London Fletcher intercepted Kevin Kolb and the other turnover iced the game for Washington. The Redskins DST finished with three sacks of Kolb in the game as well.
Analysis: The Redskins DST continues to be an impressive unit, especially as they are still without starting safety LaRon Landry. London Fletcher continues to be awesome as well as Brian Orakpo. The Redskins have recorded seven sacks in two games and have been very active as a defensive unit. Playing at Dallas in Week 3, the Redskins DST is a very usable unit.
News: The Redskins DST left Week 1 with an impressive win over the Giants as they recorded four sacks, an interception, fumble recovery and scored a defensive touchdown on the pick. The defense was all over the field against the Giants and should be able to duplicate or better that effort against the Cardinals in Week 2.
Analysis: The Cardinals did not allow the Panthers DST a whole lot of points in Week 1, but that was an ugly offensive game that showcased no defense whatsoever. The Redskins DST was impressive in Week 1 and should be considered a unit worth starting as a No. 1 option for Week 2.
News: The Redskins were able to hold the Giants to just 14 points in Week 1, while scoring a touchdown of their own. Rookie DL Ryan Kerrigan tipped a pass at the line of scrimmage, intercepted it and returned it for a 9-yard touchdown. The Redskins gave up 315 total yards of offense and forced one turnover in the game. They sacked QB Eli Manning four times in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins were able to put a good amount of pressure on Manning and did not allow him to get into a rhythm all game. They allowed less than 100 rushing yards in the game and showed signs of becoming a viable defensive unit in Fantasy. However, it will take more than one game to turn this low-end defensive unit into a recommended option. They will face the Cardinals in Week 2.
News: The Redskins will face a familiar opponent in Week 1 when they host the New York Giants in their regular season opener. Last season, the Redskins lost 17-14 at home to the Giants in the regular season finale. They allowed 31 points in a 31-7 loss to the Giants on the road. Last season, the Giants ranked seventh in the NFL in points per game (24.6) and 10th in yards per game (242.8).
Analysis: The Giants have lost some notable players in the passing game this offseason in WR Steve Smith and TE Kevin Boss. There is also the matter of Eli Manning's 25 interceptions last season, including two against the Redskins last year. While the Giants are not likely to be a top choice as a starting unit going into the season, owners in deeper leagues looking for a potential matchup play could consider them in leagues where turnovers are rewarded heavily. However, we recommend looking for more reliable alternatives at this stage.
News: In a surprising move, the Patriots acquired defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth from the Redskins in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2013. He originally signed with the Redskins in February of 2009 for a deal that included $41 million in guaranteed money.
Analysis: Haynesworth wasn't expected to stick with the Redskins this season anyway, so the move isn't very surprising. Washington's secondary improved with the addition of safety Oshiomogho Atogwe this offseason, and rookie Ryan Kerrigan gives the defense another edge rusher opposite Brian Orakpo, but questions about the defensive line remain. The Redskins DST should be considered a one-week replacement during the season.
News:Ryan Kerrigan will need to use all his talents to make the switch to outside linebacker in the Redskins' 3-4 scheme. Washington drafted him with their first-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. He began preparing for that possibility after the college season to make himself a more attractive prospect, and it paid off. The former Purdue Boilermaker left school with 33.5 sacks, 57 tackles for loss and a Big Ten-record 14 career forced fumbles.
Analysis: Kerrigan adds some much-needed athleticism and pass-rush performance to the Redskins' front seven. Here's a unit that has added Oshiomogho Atogwe already this offseason and has compounded that move with this one. Though Kerrigan is plenty raw, he could end up helping Washington's bottom line -- especially in bringing down the quarterback. Still, the Redskins DST is not worth drafting and is only worth using off waivers as a one-week replacement.
News: The Redskins defense allowed 17 points on 325 yards of offense to the Giants in Week 17. The unit played very well for the most part and were able to keep New York off the scoreboard in the fourth quarter. The only gaffe Washington made on defense was when DeAngelo Hall attempted to jump a pass from Eli Manning and missed, which allowed Mario Manningham to streak up the sideline 92 yards for a touchdown. The unit did not record a sack in the contest and forced one turnover in the 17-14 loss.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has played better in recent weeks, but still has a ton of issues that need to addressed in the offseason. Washington needs to address their pass rush over the spring and also find a replacement for Albert Haynesworth at the noes tackle position to sure up their run defense. There is talent on this unit, but not enough to draft them as a DST unit heading into 2011.
News: The Redskins DST will likely have its hands full in Week 17 against the Giants. New York put up 357 yards of total offense and 31 points on Washington in the team's first meeting this season. The Redskins DST enters Sunday's season finale ranked 26th in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up 29 sacks and forced 32 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST played better in Week 16 than they have in recent weeks, but were still far from dominant. The Giants have been clicking on all cylinders on offense of late, and had no problems putting points up against the Redskins earlier in the season. Fantasy owners should consider the Redskins a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST on Sunday.
News: The Redskins DST didn't do a good job of limiting the yards the Jacksonville Jaguars racked up in the Week 16 game. Washington allowed 336 yards to the Jaguars in the game. That said, the defense did just enough in the second half to keep the game close. Jacksonville tied the score at 17 before the end of the game and Washington won 20-17 in overtime. The Redskins DST forced two turnovers in the game as David Garrard threw two interceptions that were costly. The Redskins, playing without Brian Orakpo and LaRon Landry in the game, managed four sacks of Garrard.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was better in Week 16 than they have been in recent weeks. That said, we doubt it is going to last into Week 17. The Redskins take on the division-rival Giants in the final game of the regular season and we expect New York to play well. Consider other options before looking at the Redskins DST in Week 17.
News: The Redskins DST was dealt a blow Wednesday when starting nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu was placed on IR with an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: The Redskins visit the Jaguars in Week 16, and Maurice Jones-Drew will be licking his lips about this matchup against the 27th-ranked defense against the run that will be using a backup nose tackle. Avoid the Washington DST in all formats for this weekend.
News: The Redskins DST did not play all that well in the Week 15 33-30 loss to the Cowboys in Dallas. Giving up 434 yards of offense, the Redskins DST could not stop the Cowboys when things mattered most. The DST could not force a single Dallas turnover in the game and only got to Jon Kitna for two sacks. What's more, the team saw Brian Orakpo and Reed Doughty go down with injuries during the game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been pathetic since before Week 8 of the season and was already without LaRon Landry for the rest of the season. They will have to hope that Doughty and Orakpo are OK heading into Week 16 at Jacksonville. Still, we cannot recommend them as a viable Fantasy unit for the Week 16 game.
News: Little is to be expected out of the Redskins DST entering Week 15 in Dallas. The unit is still hurting in its secondary LaRon Landry now out for the rest of the year and Albert Haynesworth was already going to miss the the rest of the season. The DST has not recorded double digits in Fantasy points since nothing 11 Week 8 in Detroit. What's more, the Cowboys have not allowed an opposition's DST to score in double figures since Week 9.
Analysis: All the trends suggest to avoid the Redskins DST Week 15. The Redskins' locker room is dealing with the turmoil of being divided after Washington switched to Rex Grossman for the game over Donovan McNabb. Fantasy owners need to avoid this situation at all costs.
News: Redskins SS LaRon Landry, who had missed the past four games with an Achilles' tendon injury, will be placed on IR. Landry, who was arguably Washington's best player in the first half of the season, will end up having missed seven games and is a key missing piece in their run defense, which has floundered without him. "I thought the first half of the season he'd be MVP with the way he was playing," coach Mike Shanahan said. In brighter news, the team expects CB Carlos Rogers back for their Week 15 game against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Washington continues to disappoint; it hasn't been in double figures in Fantasy production since Week 8 at Detroit. We don't see them getting there in Week 15 at Dallas, either. Find a better unit for Week 15.
News: The Redskins DST limited Tampa Bay to 365 yards of offense and 17 points in the Week 14 game. Washington led 10-3 at halftime and led deep into the fourth quarter. That is when Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman hit Kellen Winslow for a 41-yard TD pass that gave the Bucs their first and last lead of the game as they won 17-16. The Redskins DST forced two turnovers, both coming on fumbles. They could only sack Freeman once in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST had a pretty poor effort once again Week 14 without the services of LaRon Landry and Carlos Rogers once again. The team hasn't been in double figures in Fantasy production since Week 8 at Detroit. We don't see them getting there in Week 15 at Dallas, either. Find a better unit for Week 15.
News: The Redskins DST does not have a good matchup coming up Week 14 against Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers have been able to limit the Fantasy points of opposing DSTs all year and have been getting better with each game with Josh Freeman's ability to limit his mistakes.
Analysis: While the Bucs have been solid at limiting opposing DSTs' value, the Redskins DST has been downright putrid. Since a solid Week 7 effort in Chicago, the Redskins DST has not recorded more than 11 Fantasy points in any game. Washington is coming off its absolute worst effort Week 13 in New York as the Giants did anything they wanted in racking up 358 yards and 31 points in the blowout win. The Redskins DST is not worth using Week 14.
News: The Redskins suspended DL Albert Haynesworth for the remaining four games of the season on Tuesday for conduct detrimental to the team.
Analysis: Haynesworth was inactive in Week 13 against the Giants, and this suspension has been a long time coming. He began acting up late last season and has been a pain in the behind ever since. The Redskins defense is the worst in the league through 13 weeks, allowing 397.3 yards a game and their DST should continue to be stashed away as a No. 2 option in only very deep leagues.
News: The Giants never were in trouble in a 31-7 rout of the Redskins in Week 13. RB Brandon Jacobs set the tone with a 39-yard burst on New York's second play from scrimmage and finished off the opening drive with an 8-yard touchdown run. Ahmad Bradshaw had a rushing touchdown on the next drive and two scores in the first half as New York jumped out to a 21-0 halftime lead. "You can't tackle the way we did in the first half and expect to win," coach Mike Shanahan said. The only highlight in the first half was London Fletcher's interception of an Eli Manning pass in the end zone. New York finished with 358 yards, including 197 on the ground. Washington was unable to sack Manning all afternoon.
Analysis: The Redskins came into Week 13 with one of the worst rush defenses in the NFL and New York used that to its advantage. The Redskins have fallen on hard times in 2010 in what was expected to be a bounce back season defensively with Jim Haslett coming in as the defensive coordinator. It didn't help Washington in Week 13 that they were down one of their best defenders in LaRon Landry (Achilles'). The Redskins DST is not worth using in Fantasy right now outside of the deepest formats. Washington plays Tampa Bay in Week 14.
News: The Redskins renew their NFC East rivalry with the Giants in Week 13. The Giants have the third-best offense in the league with 387.2 yards per game, but are likely to play without top receivers Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith. However, the Redskins defense will probably be down one of their top playmakers, safety LaRon Landry. He has missed the last two games with an Achilles' injury. That's not good for a defense that ranks last as the only one in the league allowing more than 400 yards per game. The run defense is giving up 4.9 yards per carry to tie Indianapolis for the worst mark in the NFL.
Analysis: The Redskins really haven't gotten the results they were hoping for as they transitioned to a 3-4 defense under Jim Haslett in 2010. Aside from giving up a lot of yards, they also rank in the bottom half of the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 23.8 points per game. The Giants might be banged up at wide receiver, but they have a running back tandem in Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw that should give the defense fits. The Redskins DST is at best a No. 2 option for Week 13.
News: The Redskins DST could not stop Brett Favre and the Vikings when it mattered most on Sunday of Week 12 in Washington. Favre played field general in the second half and helped the Vikings hold on for a 17-13 win. The Redskins DST limited the Vikings to 299 yards of offense in the game but did give up 137 rushing yards after injuring Adrian Peterson early in the contest. Toby Gerhart did most of the damage against Washington's run defense. The Redskins DST did not force a single turnover in the game, despite the Vikings entering the contest with the worst turnover ratio in the NFL.
Analysis: Washington could not force a single turnover and sacked Favre just twice in the Week 12 game. That is unacceptable production from the DST. Brandon Banks saw a punt return for a touchdown nullified by a block in the back call and the Redskins DST was otherwise stale on Sunday. For the Redskins DST, it has been four straight porous weeks Fantasy-wise. Playing at the New York Giants Week 13, we do not recommend starting the Redskins DST.
News: The Redskins DST enters Week 12 at home against Minnesota having struggled in the unit's last three games. Washington only gave up 16 points to the Titans in Week 11 in an overtime win, and didn't allow any offensive touchdowns, but still managed just single digits in Fantasy points. In the two prior weeks against the Lions and Eagles, the Redskins defense was abysmal. A No. 1 unit earlier in the year, Washington has really fallen off.
Analysis: Washington is coming off a dramatic overtime win and the defense looked stout against the Titans. You would expect the Vikings to give them more trouble, except Minnesota is a team in turmoil having just fired coach Brad Childress. Minnesota has allowed plenty of Fantasy points to opposing DSTs all year, too. Only the Patriots DST Week 8 failed to score in double figures against the Vikings. Fantasy owners should likely have a better option than the Redskins on their rosters already. If you don't, though, the Redskins DST is certainly a serviceable unit for Week 12.
News: The Redskins DST kept the Titans without an offensive touchdown in the Week 11 overtime win in Tennessee. Washington's field goal in the extra session gave them a 19-16 victory as the only TD Tennessee scored came on a punt return for a touchdown to open the scoring in the first quarter. The Redskins DST limited Tennessee to 373 total yards and forced two turnovers. They also forced Vince Young out of the game and possibly out as the starter for the Titans. Washington managed just one sack in the game, however.
Analysis: The Redskins did a great job limiting the points and yards for Tennessee in the Week 11 overtime win. They, however, could not really come up with any big plays. The DST was much improved in the Week 11 game after getting blown to bits by Detroit and Philadelphia in successive weeks. They showed improvement, but not a lot. The Redskins DST is just a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 12 against Minnesota.
News: The Redskins DST heads into Week 11 at Tennessee a little embarrassed. Washington was blown away by division-rival Philadelphia on Monday night. The Redskins DST allowed 53 points, 592 yards and forced just two fumbles without an interception. They could take down Michael Vick just once and had one measly Fantasy point when it was all said and done. What was once a solid unit has really fallen off in the last two weeks. The Redskins DST has allowed 84 points and 896 yards against the Lions and Eagles.
Analysis: Can Washington turn it around in Tennessee? It seems unlikely, especially considering the Titans do not readily give up Fantasy points to opposing defenses and special teams. The Dolphins DST had a decent game against Tennessee Week 10, but no DST had scored in double figures in Fantasy points prior to that since Week 4. The Redskins have struggled at getting to the quarterback recently and Vince Young is mobile enough to stay away. He hasn't been making a whole lot of mistakes, either. All signs point to the Redskins DST being nothing more than a No. 2 unit for the Week 11 game.
News: The Redskins defense could not slow down the Eagles offense at all in Week 10 and had one of their worst performances in franchise history. Washington allowed Philadelphia to score on each of the first five drives and gave up 35 points after the first play of the second quarter. When all was said and done, the Eagles put up 59 points and 592 yards off offense. The 45 first-half points allowed by the Redskins tied a franchise record, and the 59 total points were the most allowed by a team coached by Mike Shanahan. The Redskins allowed QB Michael Vick to throw for 333 yards and fourth touchdowns, with another 80 yards and two scores on the ground. "We got outcoached. We got outplayed. They did everything right," Redskins DL Albert Haynesworth said. Washington was able to bring Vick down once but did not force a turnover in the 59-28 defeat.
Analysis: The Redskins DST had a horrid night in Week 10 as the Eagles did basically whatever they wanted on offense. The final score could have been even uglier but Philadelphia called off the dogs late in the game. It will take a lot to overcome such a letdown of a game so fantasy owners should think long and hard about starting Washington's DST in Week 11 against the Titans. Tennessee also has an agile quarterback (Vince Young) and a top-notching runner (Chris Johnson). While giving up 59 points against in near impossible for an NFL team, Fantasy owners should consider the Redskins DST as a low-end option for Week 11.
News: The Redskins' defense will shadow Eagles QB Michael Vick at times to stop his runs in Week 10 , but they can't always use SS LaRon Landry to do so. "If you do that, then you have back-end issues," defensive coordinator Jim Haslett said. "You've just got to be smart." Washington will have their hands full trying to slow down Philadelphia's high-powered offense on Sunday. The Eagles rank fourth in total offense and are averaging 24.8 points per game. The Redskins DST is ranked 13th, in terms of Fantasy points and have racked 18 sacks and forced 19 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Redskins only allowed 12 points in their first matchup this season against the Eagles, but they knocked Vick out contest early in the game. The unit struggled has struggled a bit at times this season and allowed 37 points to the Lions in their last game. Washington is coming off a bye, so they had some extra time to prepare for this matchup, however, the unit might have a hard containing all of Philadelphia's offensive weapons on Sunday. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 10.
News: The Redskins defense couldn't contain Calvin Johnson in their Week 8 loss to the Lions, but the Lions couldn't contain kick returner Brandon Banks. Banks had several good returns including a 96-yard kickoff scamper for a touchdown. Washington also accrued a sack, an interception and a forced fumble but watched the Lions rack up in total 37 points, with Johnson responsible for three touchdowns.
Analysis: The Redskins DST unit will be on bye in Week 9, so either bench them or cut them to make room for a unit that will actually play. Upon their return they'll face an Eagles offense likely piloted by QB Michael Vick and capable of putting points on them, though they didn't in a Week 4 matchup where the Redskins knocked out Vick. You can consider them a low-end option for that matchup.
News: The Redskins head to Motown to take on the Lions in Week 8, a matchup they lost last year with a different coaching staff. They're fresh off of a game at Chicago where they picked up four interceptions and recovered two fumbles, and they'll face a quarterback in Matthew Stafford who has 20 interceptions and two fumbles lost in 11 career starts.
Analysis: Washington's defense has been playing well of late (five interceptions, six fumbles recovered in last three games) and should score a couple of turnovers and sacks at Detroit. The Lions should rack up a decent amount of yards and points, so that's a slight drawback, but otherwise count on the Redskins DST to be helpful in Week 8.
News: The Redskins DST should get credit for beating the Chicago Bears in Week 7. Actually, that honor could go to DeAngelo Hall alone. Hall tied an NFL record for interceptions in a game with four and one went for a 92-yard return for touchdown. That turned out to be the game-winning score as the Redskins won 17-14. Hall's four interceptions gave the Redskins DST six turnovers forced in the game. Jay Cutler fumbled as did Matt Forte. Washington also sacked Cutler four times with Brian Orakpo getting two of those and Albert Haynesworth picking up one impressive sack. The Redskins DST held Chicago to 322 total yards in the game.
Analysis: Washington's defense was far more opportune on Sunday -- well, Hall was anyway -- as they still gave up large chunks of yardage in the second half. They held on for the win against the first-place Bears, however, and forced six turnovers with four sacks in the game. It was an impressive performance for the Redskins DST, which gets to face the Lions in Detroit in Week 8. We definitely feel they should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST in that game.
News: The Washington Redskins DST has allowed at least 353 yards of offense in every single game they have played this season. "It bothers me a lot. I'm not used to being on defenses that rank last in the league," LB London Fletcher said."That doesn't sit well to me, I'm not going to be naive and think that we're going to hold Peyton Manning and that offense (in Week 6) to 200 yards. That's not realistic. But should they have 469 yards on us? No. That's not something we're going to accept, either." While that is not very good -- terrible, in fact -- the Redskins DST has been opportune. The defense is hard hitting and they have already forced 10 fumbles, recovering seven of them. That number ties them for second in the NFL. The Redskins play at Chicago in Week 7 and the Bears have afforded opposing DSTs a plethora of Fantasy points per game this season.
Analysis: Washington's 13 sacks on the season ranks them 12th in the NFL in that statistic. The Bears are giving up more sacks -- by almost one full sack -- than any other team in the league. That translates into a lot of opportunities for Brian Orakpo and company to come away with Jay Cutler on the ground. The Redskins DST sacked Houston's Matt Schaub five times and Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers four times and should get at Cutler with regularity Week 7. That is why we like them as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST unit.
News: The Redskins defense did not take advantage of the few opportunities they were afforded by Colts QB Peyton Manning during the Week 6 loss to Indianapolis. Redskin defenders had their hands on three of Manning's passes for easy interceptions, and dropped all three. “We just didn’t make the plays,” CB DeAngelo Hall said. “They wide open layups and we didn’t make the layups.” The defense was able to recover a fumble that was caused by Brian Orakpo as he sacked Manning. The Colts gave the ball up on two special teams plays as well. However, the Colts offense racked up 469 yards (170 rushing) against Washington in the 27-24 defeat.
Analysis: The 'Skins sat back to defend the big plays in the passing game while Joseph Addai and Mike Hart gashed them on the ground for 171 yards on 28 carries, over 6 yards per attempt. Manning throwing for 307 yards is nothing new, but him throwing three golden opportunities for the defense is. Washington could have dominated the game if Carlos Rogers and Kareem Moore held on to Manning's errant throws. Instead, they remain at the bottom of the NFL in total defense and begin preparations for Week 7 at Chicago. The Bears offense is ranked 29th overall, averaging 285.2 yards per game. Consider the Redskins defense to be a No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 7.
News: The Redskins defense is ranked dead-last in the NFL (allowing over 400 yards a game) through five weeks, but they rank 9th in scoring defense, allowing just 18.4 points per game. "We don't care about you running up and down the field," LB Brian Orakpo said Monday. "We don't care about that. We care about you scoring points and getting into our end zone. And that's what we're trying to defend. Last year, look at New Orleans. They were the same thing." The Redskins will need the same mindset against the Colts in Week 6. Indianapolis ranks third in total offense (racking up 397 yards per game) and scoring offense at 27.2 points per game.
Analysis: The Redskins defense has had the luxury of moving S LaRon Landry all around the field to disrupt the opposing offense in Jim Haslett's scheme. Against Colts QB Peyton Manning, the Skins will have to mix it up or it will be a long day in yardage and points with Manning's ability to adjust to the defense and change the play. Still, Washington has held Dallas, Philadelphia and Green Bay to just one touchdown each this season. Manning has played the Redskins three times in his career and has totaled eight TDs against just three interceptions, but the last time he faced Washington was in 2006. Consider the Redskins DST to be a No. 2 Fantasy defense in Week 6.
News: The Redskins DST was able to play well in Sunday's 16-13 overtime victory against the Packers in Week 5. The Redskins allowed 427 total yards but had four sacks, an interception and recovered a fumble. On special teams, the Redskins had three punt returns for 47 yards and four kickoff returns for 66 yards.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a low-end Fantasy option and is not worth using most weeks. We would suggest benching the Redskins DST in Week 6 against the Colts since Indianapolis has a high-powered offense and should be able to move the ball at will on this defense.
News: Packers QB Aaron Rodgers will be looking to take advantage of a Washington defense in Week 5 that has allowed 305.0 passing yards per game -- second-worst in the NFL -- and has only one sack in three of four games. The Packers come into Week 5 averaging 321.3 yards and 26.5 points per game (sixth). The Redskins are giving up 19.8 points and 406.0 yards per game, which is also second to last in the NFL.
Analysis: The Redskins are working in a 3-4 scheme in 2010 under first-year coordinator Jim Haslett, who promised to bring a more aggressive style to D.C. Unfortunately, Washington isn't executing on a high level defensively right now. It has talent on defense, but this matchup in Week 5 is not looking good. Consider using other DSTs before settling on the Redskins in Week 5.
News: The Redskins played well on defense in Week 4 against the Eagles, holding Philadelphia to just 12 points in the win. Washington gave up 250 yards passing but recorded one sack and picked off QB Kevin Kolb on the final play of the game. They were able to keep the running game in check for the most part and surrendered 110 yards on the ground. S Kareem Moore and CB DeAngelo Hall sandwiched QB Michael Vick on the play where he hurt his ribs. "It didn't feel like that big of a hit," Hall said, "but obviously it got him in the sweet spot." The Redskins also forced three fumbles and recovered one in the 17-12 win.
Analysis: Washington was able to keep Philadelphia and their big-play receivers in check on Sunday and came away with the win. Knocking Vick from the game was a huge help as Kolb did not look ready to go once called upon for duty. Washington has three interceptions, eight sacks and three fumble recoveries on the year and have been getting better while adjusting to the new defensive scheme coach Mike Shanahan has implemented. The Redskins will face off against the high-powered Packers in Week 5 and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy DST for that matchup.
News: The Redskins defense ranks second to last in the league against the pass so far this season, and will face an Eagles offense in Week 4 that has a few big-play threats. Philadelphia QB Michael Vick has thrown for 750 yards with six touchdowns through the first three games and has WRs DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin as his disposal. Washington has had better success against the run, allowing 98 yards per game while Philadelphia ranks seventh in the league rushing the ball. In two games against the Eagles last season, the Redskins allowed 27 points in both contests.
Analysis: The Redskins have given up a total of 1,305 total yards of offense through three games and will have the tough task of trying to slow down Vick and his big-play receivers. They have just two interceptions, seven sacks and two fumble recoveries to their credit and have struggled with the new defensive scheme coach Mike Shanahan has implimented. If Washington is not able to limit large gains through the air, it could be a long Sunday. They have not been able to do so thus far so Fantasy owners should consider the Redskins DST as a No. 2 option for Week 4.
News: Washington gave up 30 points to St. Louis in Week 3 and they were without their best offensive weapon, Steven Jackson. The Redskins had to play catchup the whole game as they fell behind earlier. “We didn’t play good as a football team in any phase of the game," LB London Fletcher said. "They outplayed us in every facet – offense, defense and special teams. We just couldn’t make a play, especially on third down. We had a bunch of situations where you would like to get them off the field and we just didn’t do that.” After Jackson left the game in the first half, Washington had a prime chance to take advantage of the young Rams squad, but squandered opportunities. Washington intercepted and sacked Sam Bradford once and recovered a fumble. They did block a field goal attempt at the end of the first half, the team's first blocked kick since 2007.
Analysis: The Redskins gave up 365 yards to the Rams offense and have given up a total of 1,305 total yards of offense through three games. If they continue this pace up, Washington will allow 6,960 yards by the end of the season. With just two interceptions, seven sacks and two fumble recoveries to their credit, the Redskins aren't buying into the new defensive scheme set in place by coach Mike Shanahan. With Philly and Michael Vick on the horizon in Week 4, the Redskins should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: Washington defensive coordinator, Jim Haslett, has heard plenty of frustration this week from his players - especially cornerback DeAngelo Hall - after they allowed Matt Schaub to throw for 497 yards in a 30-27 overtime loss to the Houston Texans. "We were totally mad," cornerback Carlos Rogers said. "It was a little bit of everybody. It's different people in different spots that kept giving up the yards. ... We can't have 500-and-some yards. It won't happen again." On Monday, Hall was so upset he said he would start covering the opposing team's top receiver - no matter what Haslett says. Hall quickly backpedalled from that stance and met with the coaches to explain himself, but no one seemed to take serious offense anyway. "I don't think it was a slight on anybody," safety Reed Doughty said. "I think it was his confidence in himself. If you don't have confidence as a DB in the NFL, then you shouldn't be playing. You hope that Carlos is saying the same thing, and that (Phillip Buchanon) is saying the same thing, so I don't think anybody is insulted that he thinks that nobody else did a good enough job."
Analysis: Washington gave up a few big plays and blew a 17-point third quarter lead against the Texans in Week 2. With the Redskins traveling to St. Louis in Week 3 to take on the Rams, they won't have to deal with such a high-powered offense. Because of this favorable matchup, the Redskins should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 3.
News: Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall says he knows what his team needs to do to win: have him cover each opponent's top receiver. Hall said Monday it doesn't matter what Redskins defensive coordinator Jim Haslett thinks because, Hall says, "This is my team; this is my defense." Washington allowed Houston's Matt Schaub to throw for 497 yards and three touchdowns in the Texans' 30-27 overtime victory Sunday. That included a game-tying, 34-yard scoring pass to Andre Johnson on fourth-and-10 with 2:03 left in regulation. Cornerback Phillip Buchanon and safety Reed Doughty were in coverage; Hall was lined up on the other side of the field. "Won't happen like that again," Hall says. "If Andre Johnson's out there, I'm going to be out there."
Analysis: The Redskins will go from an explosive Texans offense to a far more predictable beast in the Rams in Week 3. Though they'll be on the road for the first time this season, their matchup against rookie QB Sam Bradford and the Rams should be a favorable one. Consider the Redskins DST strong enough to start in Week 3.
News: The Redskins DST was picked apart by Matt Schaub and the Texans in Week 2. Washington allowed 526 total yards of offense, including 497 yards through the air by Schaub. They did record five sacks and force a turnover, but could not stop Houston's offense, especially in the second half. They allowed the Texans to score 23 points over the final two quarters and overtime period and allowed Houston to get 29 first downs. They did only allow 58 yards rushing.
Analysis: The Redskins defense was very aggressive on Sunday and paid the price for it. They blitzed Scahub all game long and got pretty good pressure on him, but that left Houston's receivers with single coverage on the outside. The Texans took advantage of this all game along which is what helped lead to the 497 passing yards Schaaub accounted for. "It's like he was blind to the rush. Most quarterbacks would have gotten rattled," Redskins DE Adam Carriker said. After facing two high-powered offenses back-to-back, Washington travels to St. Louis in Week 3. We expect a much better effort out of the Redskins defense against a bad Rams team. Consider Washington's DST a solid No. Fantasy DST in Week 3.
News: The Redskins DST faces another stiff challenge in their Week 2 matchup against the Texans. Washington was able to limit the Cowboys to seven points on 380 total yards of offense, while recording a sack. They also forced a big turnover in Week 1, when DeAngelo Hall stripped the ball away from Tashard Choice and ran it back for a touchdown. The Redskins defense will face a Houston team that put 355 yards of total offense on the board, including 257 on the ground against the Colts.
Analysis: The Redskins defense looked pretty good on Sunday and was able to pressure Tony Romo all night long. Washington's defense surrendered 282 of those yards through the air, so they will have tough challenge stopping Houston's high-powered passing attack. Despite the Texans only throwing for 107 yards during Week 1, they didn't need to throw the ball as they ran at will over Indianapolis. They still poses plenty of weapons in their passing game, but Washington has plenty of playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. Consider them a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into Week 2.
News: Unveiling their new 3-4 scheme, the Redskins had an impressive defensive performance against a talented Cowboys offense in Week 1, holding Dallas to just seven points on 380 yards. The Redskins recorded only one sack, but they did get a big turnover at the end of the first half when DeAngelo Hall stripped the ball away from Tashard Choice and ran it back for a touchdown.
Analysis: Despite recording only one sack, the Redskins were inventive with their pass rush and kept pressure on Cowboys QB Tony Romo all night. Against less-elusive quarterbacks, they probably would have recorded a few more sacks. Granted, the 380 yards could be better, but the Redskins DST is looking like a potential sleeper in Fantasy this season. If it's able to slow down another high-powered offense when the Texans come to town in Week 2, it'll be worth a look off the waiver wire.
News: Despite not getting anything out of DL Albert Haynesworth, who may be in active for Week 1 against the Cowboys because of poor conditioning and lack of effort, the Redskins DST had a good showing this preseason as it switches to a 3-4 scheme under new coordinator Jim Haslett, allowing a total of 34 points over its final three games. It hosts a Cowboys team that struggled last year against 3-4 defenses such as Denver, Kansas City, San Diego and Green Bay, averaging 15 points per game against them. Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said the Redskins' switch to a 3-4 scheme doesn't make it any tougher. "They're a good defense. Doesn't matter if they play 4-3 or 3-4."
Analysis: The Redskins DST ranked eighth last year with 40 sacks, and switching to a 3-4 scheme should only improve that number. The Redskins' pass defense looked especially formidable this preseason, ranking fifth with 175.8 yards per game. Of course, their run defense took a hit -- they allowed a fourth-worst 131.2 yards per game -- which may prove to be their undoing when games start to count. Going against what's widely considered to be a potent Cowboys offense, the Redskins DST probably isn't worth using in Week 1, but it could turn out to be a sleeper unit as the season unfolds.
News: A poor performance in the Washington Redskins' preseason finale may have earned Albert Haynesworth a spot on the inactive list for Week 1, the Washington Post reports. Haynesworth was "awful" Thursday during the Cardinals' 20-10 victory in Glendale, Ariz., two team sources who recently reviewed game film told the Post. It often appeared he gave little effort while participating in 49 of the Redskins' 55 defensive plays. On the few occasions he did play hard, the two sources said, Haynesworth failed to adhere to the principles of the new 3-4 scheme. He was credited with four tackles, including three unassisted.
Analysis: The Post report added that it's unlikely Haynesworth would be named a starter for the opener, the sources said. The Redskins play host to the Cowboys, their NFC East rivals, Sept. 12 at FedEx Field. Redskins defensive coaches have worked hard to help Haynesworth prepare to play right end this season, but the situation is unsettled again after Haynesworth's poor showing in the desert. Though it will be coach Mike Shanahan's decision alone on how to use the two-time All-Pro performer, owner Daniel Snyder guaranteed Haynesworth $41 million in the contract Haynesworth signed in February 2009. Haynesworth, who played in 12 games last season, already has been paid $32 million -- including a $21 million bonus on April 1. Even if Haynesworth is a backup for Washington, the team is ready to move on under defensive coordinator Jim Haslett, who is expected to run an aggressive defensive system in 2010. The Redskins DST is still more of a No. 2 option to open the season. Haynesworth is not a recommended Fantasy option until we see how or if he fits into Washington's plans.
News: Redskins new coordinator Jim Haslett's 3-4 defense forced four Jets turnovers with the starters allowing just three points for the third straight week on Saturday. The Redskins also recorded four sacks. "We've got a very good defense, not only the sacks but the turnovers," head coach Mike Shanahan said. Said cornerback DeAngelo Hall, whose pair of picks this summer make him the first Redskin to have two in a preseason since the late Sean Taylor in 2004, "This defense was built ... on giving you the opportunity to make plays."
Analysis: The Redskins are allowing just 17.0 points per game in the preseason and are tied for second in the NFL with eight turnovers. Haslett could always coach defense, so this success is not surprising. The Redskins have the talent on defense to succeed. The Redskins DST is being looked at as a No. 2 option on Draft Day after a poor showing in 2009, but don't be surprised if they end up outperforming their draft position.
News:Albert Haynesworth finally passed the Washington Redskins conditioning test Saturday morning, ending a daily soap opera that had overshadowed the first week-and-a-half of training camp. Haynesworth arrived early at Redskins Park and completed both 300-yard back-and-fourth shuttle runs in the required times -- and with no controversial bathroom break. Haynesworth's success came on the 10th day of camp, and it meant he would be allowed to put on pads with his teammates for the first time.
Analysis: Haynesworth was the only Redskins player who had to take the test, a requirement because he was absent from the team's offseason conditioning program. He stayed away because he preferred to work with his own trainer and because he wanted to be traded, having made known his unhappiness with the team's switch to a 3-4 defense. His presence is more valuable to the team's group Fantasy unit than to his own value in IDP formats, where his lack of statistical presence makes him a very low-option. But there aren't many better players at clogging up the middle zone of the line of scrimmage than Haynesworth, making the Redskins run defense that much better when he is in the lineup. He is clearly not comfortable with the team's 3-4 scheme, but we feel Haynesworth can make it work if the two sides can get on the same page. After all, many feel that he can do the work of two players in the middle of a defensive line when he is on his game. Overall, the Redskins DST is a decent second choice but not good enough to start or draft in standard Fantasy play.
News: The Haynesworth soap opera entered its second week Thursday when the two-time All-Pro defensive lineman again didn't attempt the test he needs to pass in order to practice with the team. Haynesworth's sore knee has kept him from taking the Washington Redskins conditioning test for the third straight day. Haynesworth failed the test each of the first two days of training camp, but since then, his left knee has hampered his efforts to try again. He started the test Monday but stopped when the knee acted up. Haynesworth continues to learn the Redskins defense as a spectator, watching the drills usually with a play sheet in his hand. He also attends team meetings and has been hitting the blocking sled after practice.
Analysis: Maybe the issue isn't laziness or a punishment from the coaches for missing offseason workouts -- maybe his knee is hurt to the point where he can't run. That suggests a bigger problem for the Redskins, who are counting on Haynesworth to play as a run-stuffing defensive end in their 3-4 scheme. The Redskins DST is a decent second choice but not good enough to start or draft in standard Fantasy play.
News: Stop us if you've heard this one before: Albert Haynesworth did not attempt the Washington Redskins conditioning test Tuesday, extending his time away from the practice field. Haynesworth tried to take the test Monday morning, but he pulled up after three back-and-forth sprints because he felt some irritation in his left knee. After Monday's practice, he stayed for what has become a daily ritual -- a solo session with defensive coaches to walk through some of the plays.
Analysis: Maybe the issue isn't laziness or a punishment from the coaches for missing offseason workouts -- maybe his knee is hurt to the point where he can't run. That suggests a bigger problem for the Redskins, who are counting on Haynesworth to play as a run-stuffing defensive end in their 3-4 scheme. The Redskins DST is a decent second choice but not good enough to start or draft in standard Fantasy play.
News: No conditioning test for Albert Haynesworth once again. The two-time All-Pro defensive tackle did not take the Washington Redskins' conditioning test for the third straight day Monday. He won't be allowed to practice until he passes it. Haynesworth failed the test on the first day of training camp Thursday after taking an extended bathroom break in the middle of it. He failed again Friday when he didn't post a sufficient time, then didn't take it Saturday or Sunday because of a sore left knee. Unlike previous days, Haynesworth walked onto the field at the start of practice with a helmet. However, he did not take part in drills.
Analysis: Haynesworth is a big piece of what the Redskins want to do on defense as he's got the big body to stuff offensive players at the line of scrimmage, but until he passes their physical tests he won't be a part of the team. Even if he does pass these conditioning tests, there's a chance he won't start because of his rocky offseason with the club. The Redskins DST is a decent second choice but not good enough to start or draft in standard Fantasy play.
News:Albert Haynesworth has failed his conditioning test for a second consecutive day and is being forced to sit out practice again at Redskins training camp. Haynesworth did not pass the test Friday morning, in a repeat of his result Thursday, Day 1 of camp. Haynesworth boycotted the team's offseason workouts and minicamps because he is unhappy with the Redskins' switch to a 3-4 defense and wanted a trade. When he finally returned to Redskins Park on Wednesday, he was told he would have to pass a conditioning test in order to take part in training camp and, even once he passed, would start off practicing with the reserves.
Analysis: Haynesworth is a big piece of what the Redskins want to do on defense as he's got the big body to stuff offensive players at the line of scrimmage, but until he passes their physical tests he won't be a part of the team. Even if he does pass these conditioning tests, there's a chance he won't start because of his rocky offseason with the club. The Redskins DST is a decent second choice but not good enough to start or draft in standard Fantasy play.
News:Albert Haynesworth says he will be there when the Redskins open training camp next month, despite an ongoing rift with management that has teammates calling him selfish. "Despite my current differences with the Redskins, I have always planned to attend training camp and honor my contract," Haynesworth said in a statement released Wednesday through his agent. The disgruntled two-time All Pro defensive tackle has stayed away from all offseason activities, including last week's mandatory minicamp, because he is unhappy with the team's switch to a 3-4 defense and wants to be traded. The Redskins offered him a chance to find another team - until he collected a $21 million bonus on April 1, the latest installment in the seven-year, $100 million contract he signed last year. "As I have previously said, I am continuing to prepare for the season individually and will report on time, in shape and ready to play football," the statement said. "Any issues I have with the club I will discuss privately and therefore do not plan to make any further public comments about this matter."
Analysis: The Redskins DST is clearly better with Haynesworth than without because he's a key cog to their defensive front. But even if Haynesworth is happy and make a smooth transition from DL to DE the Redskins DST is still a No. 2 Fantasy option in all leagues. They should only be drafted in deep formats with a late-round pick.
News: The stakes just got a little higher in the showdown between the Redskins and Albert Haynesworth, who now says he will skip the team's mandatory minicamp that starts Wednesday. The two-time All Pro DT released a statement late Tuesday affirming his discontent with the team's new defensive scheme and declaring that he will "continue to work individually to prepare for training camp and the start of the 2010 season." He will likely be fined for not showing up. Haynesworth is unhappy that the Redskins are switching to a 3-4 defensive scheme under new coach Mike Shanahan and new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett. Haynesworth is best suited as a nose tackle in a 3-4, which he feels would restrict his freedom to make the kinds of plays that made him a defensive force for seven seasons with the Titans. Haynesworth left the Titans as a free agent last year and signed a seven-year, $100 million contract that includes $41 million in guaranteed money to join the Redskins.
Analysis: The Redskins DST will need Haynesworth in camp and happy to be successful because he's a key cog to their defensive front. Keep an eye on what develops with Haynesworth, but the Redskins DST should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option this year.
News: Lots of news involving the Redskins' front seven: Albert Haynesworth was absent again when the team opened their second voluntary minicamp under new coach Mike Shanahan. Haynesworth is unhappy with the Redskins' switch to a 3-4 defense and would prefer to be traded; Shanahan has said he's not trading him. One player who did return to the field was Rocky McIntosh, and he did it the same day the Redskins signed LB Chris Draft. McIntosh skipped the first minicamp because he wants a long-term contract instead of the one-year tender he was offered as a restricted free agent.
Analysis: The Redskins' defensive line is taking shape with Adam Carriker and Maake Kemoeatu on board, so there's a chance Haynesworth is moved out. In theory that would hurt the Redskins' D-line because of Haynesworth's ability, but his effort has been questioned since joining Washington. There will be an adjustment period with the Redskins moving to a 3-4. Consider the Redskins DST a No. 2 Fantasy option, but there is a chance for them to be a sleeper in 2010. They could be worth drafting with a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News: The Redskins DST didn't get a lot of help in the NFL Draft, but Washington did add some help with two picks. The Redskins drafted LB Perry Riley in Round 4 and KR Terrence Austin in Round 7. Riley will be a backup LB for Washington this year, and Austin is expected to help in the return game.
Analysis: The Redskins made more prominent moves prior to the draft by adding Adam Carriker in a trade from St. Louis and signing free agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu. Washington is switching to a 3-4 defense this year, and there will be an adjustment period. Consider the Redskins DST a No. 2 Fantasy option, but there is a chance for them to be a sleeper in 2010. They could be worth drafting with a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News: The Redskins have acquired former first-round pick Adam Carriker from the Rams in an extremely low-cost deal that provides an option along the defensive line if Albert Haynesworth is traded. The Redskins got a great price Tuesday for the 13th overall pick in 2007. They swapped fifth-round picks with the Rams, moving down 28 spots in that round, but in a swap of seventh-rounders Washington actually moved up three spots. "Adam is a guy who our staff is very familiar with," Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said. "He is talented and has an incredible work ethic. We feel he will fit in our scheme and will help us reach our defensive goals." Carriker's career has been dogged by injuries. He spent last season on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Carriker could be the contingency plan if the Redskins are able to trade Haynesworth, who has displeased Shanahan by staying away from offseason workouts and a minicamp. Haynesworth is also unhappy about Washington's switch to a 3-4 defense.
Analysis: Carriker will be reunited with defensive coordinator Jim Haslett, a former Rams head coach. Carriker was a 300-pound defensive end at Nebraska, where he was Big 12 defensive player of the year as a senior. He played tackle in a 4-3 alignment with St. Louis. Carriker should help the Redskins defense with or without Haynesworth, but he has minimal Fantasy value since he isn't a big stat producer. Carriker is only worth drafting in deep IDP leagues in 2010.
News: The Redskins already had Albert Haynesworth's huge body taking up space along the defensive line, but he's been dwarfed. Free-agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu signed a two-year, $6.975 million contract with the Redskins on Wednesday. The Redskins are expected to shift from a 4-3 alignment to a 3-4 under new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett, and the 6-foot-5, 345-pound Kemoeatu could allow tackle Albert Haynesworth to move outside to play at the end. Kemoeatu spent last season on injured reserve with the Carolina Panthers after tearing his Achilles' tendon in training camp. His agent, Ken Vierra, said in a telephone interview that the tendon is "structurally sound" and Kemoeatu is able to walk and jog but not run yet.
Analysis: This is a fantastic start for the Redskins defense as it rebuilds itself this offseason. We like the move a lot pending Kemoeatu's availability this summer. Teams typically struggle when they move from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense, but last year's Packers team did it almost seamlessly. The Redskins hope to follow in those footsteps and seem to be on their way. We're warming up to them as a sleeper unit in standard leagues and a possible starting option in deeper leagues.
News: The Washington Post reports that the Redskins are planning to move to a 3-4 defensive scheme in 2010. The team has said nothing official on it, though it's been considered one of "the worst-kept secrets" at the combine. New head coach Mike Shanahan recently complimented the scheme, saying "the 3-4 defense has done an excellent job. That's why a lot of teams have gone to the 3-4."
Analysis: The team is also considered to be in contention for Julius Peppers, who would play outside linebacker in the 3-4 formation. Additionally, the Redskins want to keep free-agent end Phillip Daniels to play at the same spot and use Albert Haynesworth as the nose tackle. Teams typically struggle when they move from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense, but last year's Packers team did it almost seamlessly. The Redskins hope to follow in those footsteps. Consider them a sleeper option if you wish, but we think owners are better off passing on them in drafts and making a play for them off waivers once they get their act together.
News: The Redskins plan to play a 3-4 defense for the first time. Using the 3-4 scheme isn't somewhere the Redskins have been, but it is the preferred defense of new coordinator Jim Haslett. Washington ranked among the Top 10 defenses in five of six seasons under Gregg Williams (2004-07) and Greg Blache (2008-09). Shanahan said the Redskins will use both the 3-4 and the 4-3, which means that their defensive linemen will have to be especially versatile.
Analysis: The Redskins DST will have a lot of work to do before they can be considered a quality Fantasy option. Don't plan on drafting them in the majority of leagues in 2010, but they might be worth adding off the waiver wire if Haslett can turn things around in a hurry. A lot will depend on how the defense picks up the change to the 3-4 scheme.
News: The Washington Redskins say they have hired Jim Haslett as defensive coordinator, replacing the retired Greg Blache. Haslett is a former NFL head coach who most recently coached in the United Football League. The Redskins announced his hiring Friday. Blache was an NFL assistant for 22 seasons, the last six with the Redskins.
Analysis: Haslett was the head coach of the Saints from 2000-05 and interim coach for the Rams in 2008 after Scott Linehan was fired. He has also been a defensive coordinator for those two teams and the Steelers. New Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan now has now both coordinators in place. His son, Kyle, will be the offensive coordinator. Now they have a coordinator in place, the Redskins turn to damage control and try to keep tackle Albert Haynesworth happy. The Redskins have talent on defense and have the potential to make some noise. But they will remain a No. 2 Fantasy DST on Draft Day 2010.
News: The Washington Redskins were leading for much of the Week 17 game at San Diego. Playing against the Chargers backups, the Redskins DST limited San Diego to 364 yards of offense. Unfortunately for the Redskins, the Chargers mounted a late-game comeback and ended up winning the game on a 2-yard TD pass from Billy Volek to Mike Tolbert with just seconds to play. San Diego won 23-20. The Redskins DST forced Volek to throw one pick and managed to sack him just once.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was among the stingiest against the passing game this season but wasn't a big-play defense by any means. They didn't force enough turnovers for Fantasy owners to get great value out of the unit. They were always on the borderline of Fantasy-viable DST units and that is how they'll enter 2010-11. They do not need to be drafted on Draft Day.
News: The Washington Redskins were leading for much of the Week 17 game at San Diego. Playing against the Chargers backups, the Redskins DST limited San Diego to 364 yards of offense. Unfortunately for the Redskins, the Chargers mounted a late-game comeback and ended up winning the game on a 2-yard TD pass from Billy Volek to Mike Tolbert with just seconds to play. San Diego won 23-20. The Redskins DST forced Volek to throw one pick and managed to sack him just once.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was among the stingiest against the passing game this season but wasn't a big-play defense by any means. They didn't force enough turnovers for Fantasy owners to get great value out of the unit. They were always on the borderline of Fantasy-viable DST units and that is how they'll enter 2010-11. They do not need to be drafted on Draft Day.
News: In the Redskins' Week 16 loss vs. the Cowboys, the DST had one sack and one interception of Tony Romo, holding the Cowboys to 17 points.
Analysis: The Redskins DST might be a useful Fantasy option in Week 17 at San Diego if the Chargers rest their studs. That's a possible situation, so consider the Redskins DST if you're completely desperate for Fantasy help.
News: The Washington Post reports that Redskins DT Albert Haynesworth was sent home from practice Friday after reportedly being late for a team meeting. This caps a rough week for Haynesworth as he was fined for throwing a punch last week against the Giants and then expressed his displeasure for the Redskins' coaching staff. The report adds that Haynesworth and head coach Jim Zorn had an "animated conversation" at the start of practice. Haynesworth will play Sunday according to Zorn, but might not start. "All that will be kept between Albert and I," Zorn said. "He wasn't belligerent or nasty to me, and I wasn't nasty to him. It's just something that needed to be done."
Analysis: Suffice to say, if you're counting on the Redskins DST at this juncture of the Fantasy season you're unlikely to consider an alternative now. Pretty much any DST is a better choice than Washington with the Cowboys coming to town in Week 16.
News: Redskins DL Albert Haynesworth was added to the practice report Thursday as he was limited with a leg injury.
Analysis: Haynesworth isn't a huge IDP guy, but his presence helps the Redskins DST immensely. Only use him in deeper IDP formats for Week 16, while the Redskins DST should only be thought of as a No. 2 unit.
News: There was nothing positive about the Washington Redskins performance in front of the country at home on Monday night of Week 15. The Redskins DST was trounced by the Giants as they allowed 387 yards of total offense and 45 points to their NFC East rivals. The Redskins DST managed to sack QB Eli Manning twice in the game but did not force a single turnover. This game was dominated in every facet by the Giants. Washington kicker Graham Gano missed an extra-point attempt and the Redskins could just not get anything going in the loss.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was abysmal on Monday night. They had two sacks to their credit and almost nothing else. The way they played in Week 15 on Monday night doesn't bode well for their Fantasy value Week 16 at home against Dallas on Sunday night. We can only call them a No. 2 Fantasy DST unit, at best, for that game.
News: Redskins DL Albert Haynesworth (ankle) practiced in full Friday as Washington prepared for Week 15 vs. the Giants.
Analysis: Haynesworth isn't a huge IDP guy, but his presence helps the Redskins DST immensely. Only use him in deeper IDP formats, while the Redskins DST should only be thought of as a No. 2 unit.
News: The Redskins had a dominant defensive performance Week 14 at Oakland, recording eight sacks, four by rookie Brian Orakpo. They also had an interception. The Raiders finished with only 13 points on 227 yards.
Analysis: The Redskins DST earned huge points this game, though that's not so hard to do against the Raiders. Normally, the Redskins DST is one of the most vanilla units in Fantasy, so continue to think of it as a No. 2 option Week 15 against the Giants. It allowed 17 points and 351 yards to the Giants in Week 1.
News: Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will miss his third game in four weeks with a sprained left ankle when the Washington Redskins visit the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Also, cornerback DeAngelo Hall will be sidelined again with a sprained right knee, denying him a chance to face his old team. Both players were ruled out by coach Jim Zorn on Friday.
Analysis: Haynesworth missed two games with the gimpy ankle, then reinjured it in last week's loss to New Orleans. Hall will miss his third straight game with the ailing knee. Between these injuries and the play of the Raiders' offense last week, the Redskins DST isn't as attractive for this matchup as it could have been. Consider other options before finalizing your lineup.
News: The Washington Redskins beat the New Orleans Saints for three solid quarters in Week 13 in Washington. The Redskins DST limited the vaunted Saints passing game and shut down the running game for much of the day. In the end, however, mistakes cost Washington and the Saints remain undefeated after winning 33-30 in overtime. New Orleans scored the game's final 13 points. The Redskins DST allowed 463 yards of offense to Drew Brees and the Saints. They managed to sack Brees just once in the game and Kareem Moore came up with an interception but ultimately lost that pick as Robert Meachem stole the ball from him and took it to the house for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Redskins DST didn't limit the yards or points against the best offense in the NFL. They managed just a single sack and a single turnover forced and that turnover turned into points for the Saints. The Washington DST has been mediocre, at best, for a while now. The team plays at Oakland in Week 14 and should do better in that game. Still, we only like them as a last-resort option.
News: Redskins coach Jim Zorn said cornerback DeAngelo Hall remains doubtful for Sunday with a sprained right knee and will likely miss his second straight game. But Zorn is optimistic that defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will return after missing two games with a sprained left ankle. Haynesworth is listed as questionable on the injury report. The Redskins host the Saints in Week 13.
Analysis: Because they're hosting the Saints, the Redskins DST is not worth using in Week 13. Keep them benched or on waivers since it's likely that they'll give up a lot of points and yards with minimal turnovers.
News: The Washington Redskins did it again on Sunday of Week 12 at Philadelphia. They gave away another near win. This time Washington led almost all game before allowing the Eagles to score the final 11 points in the 4th quarter to win 27-24. The Redskins DST gave up 381 yards to Philadelphia and gave up a two-point conversion on the game's final score in the 4th. The Redskins DST managed to sack Donovan McNabb just twice in the game and picked him off once. There were no other turnovers forced.
Analysis: Washington's DST once again did literally nothing opportune to help the Redskins win the game. The Redskins haven't put together a solid Fantasy DST game in a while now and really only have low-end Fantasy value for Week 13 against the Saints.
News: The Washington Redskins were beating the Dallas Cowboys in Big D all afternoon. In fact, the Cowboys went scoreless through three quarters as the Redskins DST held stout. Unfortunately, Washington didn't do much scoring either and Dallas broke out for a touchdown drive in the 4th quarter to win 7-6. The Redskins DST limited Dallas to 305 yards in the game. Washington sacked Tony Romo just once and forced two turnovers. London Fletcher came up with an interception and DeAngelo Hall recovered a Marion Barber fumble.
Analysis: Despite Washington's keeping Dallas off the board, they still managed just one sack and two turnovers forced. It certainly wasn't a major Fantasy explosion of points for the Redskins DST. Washington plays at Philadelphia in Week 12 and we expect the Eagles to win that game. The Redskins DST should be just a last-resort option.
News: Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is questionable for Sunday because of a sprained left ankle. Haynesworth was unable to practice this week. He tested his ankle on a treadmill on Friday. Coach Jim Zorn said Haynesworth remains a game-time decision.
Analysis: If Haynesworth sits, he'll obviously hurt the Redskins defensive output against the Cowboys. Even if he plays, the Redskins DST isn't a solid option in Week 11 at Dallas.
News: The Washington Redskins defeated the Denver Broncos on Sunday of Week 10 to stop the bleeding and win their third game of the season. Washington won by the final score of 27-17 and the Redskins DST limited the Broncos to 305 yards of offense. That is impressive because the Redskins, ranked No. 1 against the pass coming into the game, allowed two long touchdown bombs to Brandon Marshall by Kyle Orton in the 1st quarter. Orton injured himself before halftime and Chris Simms could get nothing going against the Redskins. Washington finished with three sacks as Andre Carter and rookie Brian Orakpo each had 1.5. The 'Skins also recovered a fumble in the game and picked Simms off late.
Analysis: Washington finished the Week 10 win with three sacks and two turnovers forced. It certainly wasn't a major Fantasy explosion of points for the Redskins DST but they got the job done for the win. Still, we cannot recommend them for Fantasy use in Week 11 at Dallas.
News: Washington is normally known for its defense as the offense has been dismal this season. However, in a loss at Atlanta in Week 9, it was the defense that let the Redskins down. Washington gave up huge chunks of yardage late in the game to Michael Turner and allowed 306 yards of offense total in the 31-17 defeat. The Redskins DST managed three sacks in the game as rookie Brian Orakpo had two. Washington also forced one turnover on a Matt Ryan interception by Rocky McIntosh.
Analysis: The Redskins DST did nothing worth writing home about in Week 9 and what is worse, they gave up big ground yards when they needed a stop late in the game. Washington has been awful this season and that should only continue Week 10 against Denver. We do not recommend the Redskins DST for Week 10.
News: Washington was dismal again on Monday night at home in Week 7. The Redskins dropped to 2-5 on the year as they lost to NFC East division rival Philadelphia, 27-17. The Redskins DST actually limited the Eagles offense to just 262 yards but the team made far too many mistakes to come away victorious. Washington sacked QB Donovan McNabb three times as Albert Haynesworth picked up one. The team did not force a turnover in the game.
Analysis: No turnovers, three sacks and slightly limited yardage doesn't quality as a solid effort by the Redskins DST. Washington's defense is not opportune despite being solid yardage wise. They are usually a decent bye-week replacement option but are on bye themselves Week 8. Do not use them in Fantasy play Week 8.
News: The Washington Redskins fell at home to the previously winless Kansas City Chiefs in Week 6. The Redskins' DST allowed 265 yards of offense to the Chiefs in the 14-6 win. Washington sacked Chiefs QB Matt Cassel five times but did not force a single turnover.
Analysis: Despite the sacks, Washington's defense did basically nothing against the lowly Chiefs. They are solid overall but are not opportune. Without a good amount of turnovers forced, they are really only a bye-week replacement Week 7 against the Eagles.
News: Playing against one of the worst teams in football, the Washington Redskins gave the Carolina Panthers their first win of the season in Week 5. The Redskins DST allowed 248 yards to Carolina in the 20-17 loss. Washington managed one interception of Jake Delhomme as DeAngelo Hall now has all three Redskins interceptions for the season. The Redskins did sack Delhomme three times and Andre Carter had 2.5.
Analysis: Washington's defense is all banged up right now and they gave up far too many yards and points to the previously winless Panthers. They are having trouble forcing turnovers and should only be used as a last-resort bye-week replacement Fantasy DST option Week 6 against a Kansas City team that has shown signs of life in recent weeks.
News: The Washington Redskins did absolutely nothing for two quarters on Sunday in a Week 4 win over Tampa Bay. The Redskins woke up in the 2nd half. Washington beat Tampa Bay 16-13 and limited the Bucs' offense, with a brand-new QB in Josh Johnson, to 229 yards. Johnson threw one interception as DeAngelo Hall came down with the pick. Johnson proved elusive but the Redskins DST still sacked him three times. In all, Washington came up with 3 sacks, 1 INT and 1 fumble recovery.
Analysis: Washington seems to have fantastic matchups each and every week but has once again underwhelmed as a DST unit in Fantasy play. With a Week 5 game coming up at Carolina, another horrible offensive team, we must call them a decent start, but only if your normal DST is on bye.
News: Redskins DL Albert Haynesworth (hip) missed practice again Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. But coach Jim Zorn said Haynesworth "probably will participate more and more as we go along tomorrow" meaning you can expect Haynesworth to try and practice Friday. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Haynesworth was carted off in the first half of Sunday's 19-14 loss, but he returned and played much of the second half. He finished with two tackles. Consider Haynesworth no better than a No. 3 Fantasy DL at this point, but if he does play he would improve the value of the Redskins DST against the Bucs.
News: The Washington Redskins expect defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to be OK despite a hip injury that forced him out of the loss to the Detroit Lions. Coach Jim Zorn says Haynesworth has a strained glut muscle high in the hip area. The team says Haynesworth was having an MRI in Tennessee, where he was also taking care of a personal matter. Asked about Haynesworth on Monday, Zorn said: "I think he's going to be fine."
Analysis: Haynesworth was carted off in the first half of Sunday's 19-14 loss, but he returned and played much of the second half. He's a huge part (literally) of what the Redskins do on defense, and he should be effective when he and the Redskins host the Buccaneers and new starting QB Josh Johnson in Week 4. Consider the DST a usable option in their next game.
News: The Washington Redskins are in a world of turmoil after Week 3's loss to the Detroit Lions. Yes, those Detroit Lions. The Redskins DST struggled stopping the Lions and rookie QB Matthew Stafford as they racked up 381 yards in a 19-14 win. The Redskins DST sacked Stafford just once in the game as Brian Orakpo and Albert Haynesworth combined on a sack. Washington did not force a single turnover, either.
Analysis: Washington did next to nothing and that is a big reason they lost to one of the league's worst franchises. Washington didn't limit the yardage allowed as they normally do and are always weak at creating turnovers. Thus far, after three games this year, the Redskins DST looks like a low-end Fantasy unit. They do play a terrible Tampa Bay team at home in Week 4 but that still makes them just a No. 2 unit for the matchup.
News: Washington's offense wasn't very good on Sunday of Week 2 in a 9-7 win over the Rams. The defense was solid against a dismal Rams' offense, however. The Redskins DST limited the Rams to 245 total yards, one touchdown pass and a field goal on offense. While they banged up QB Marc Bulger all day, they only managed to sack him once. Washington did come up with one turnover when Donnie Avery fumbled and the 'Skins recovered.
Analysis: The Redskins have once again showed a propensity for stout defense with little big-play ability. They aren't getting a load of turnovers despite limiting the yardage and they aren't coming up with a ton of sacks, either. The Redskins DST isn't one of the worst in Fantasy Football, but it isn't one of the best either. With a Week 3 matchup at Detroit, we'd say they can be used as a No. 2 unit for that game. It should be a solid matchup but the 'Skins didn't exactly take advantage of their solid matchup against the Rams this week.
News: The Redskins had a so-so defensive performance at the Giants in the season opener Sunday, allowing 23 points on 351 yards. They had one sack, one interception, one fumble recovery and 116 return yards.
Analysis: The Redskins DST isn't one of the worst in Fantasy Football, but it isn't one of the best either. It's a viable matchups type and has a great matchup Week 2 against the Rams. Give it a look off the waiver wire if you need defensive help.
News: Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is back at practice after missing two straight days with a knee problem. Haynesworth was back Tuesday morning in full pads after he had to sit out because of soreness in his left knee and received an injection to insert fluid. Haynesworth said it wasn't serious. The former Titans tackle turned free agent is the centerpiece of the Redskins offseason acquisitions. His contract includes $41 million in guaranteed money.
Analysis: Haynesworth should be OK for the start of the season, but that knee will be a question mark as he wears down into the year. The Redskins DST remains a low-end No. 1 option worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News:Albert Haynesworth's knee kept him from a full practice for the second straight day, forcing him and the Redskins to play their best defense against any cause for alarm. The centerpiece of the Redskins' offseason acquisitions - with a contract that includes an NFL-record $41 million in guaranteed money - Haynesworth was off to a good start over the first few days of training camp until he required an injection to insert fluid into his left knee, something he's said he's been getting for years. He was mainly an on-field spectator Sunday and Monday. "We're just trying to keep his knee, which is sore from the all the work we've been doing, just trying to make sure we don't have to shut him down completely for more than a day or two," Washington coach Jim Zorn said. "I fully expect him to go as much as he can. He's not going to play 70 plays a game. He's going to play a percentage."
Analysis: Breathe easy, Redskins DST owners. Haynesworth should be OK for the start of the season, but that knee will be a question mark as he wears down into the year. The Redskins DST remains a low-end No. 1 option worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News:Brian Orakpo is expected at practice Friday after agreeing to terms on a five-year deal Thursday night. The deal ends a one-day holdout - Orakpo was the only player absent when training camp opened on Thursday - and puts the 6-foot-4, 260-pounder on the field in time for his 23rd birthday.
Analysis: Orakpo was primarily a defensive end at Texas, where he had 11 sacks last season, but the Redskins envision him as their starting strongside linebacker who can play end in pass-rushing situations. It remains to be seen where they'll eventually use him, but he will be in line to make a ton of plays as a pass rusher. With DT Albert Haynesworth supplementing the cause for Orakpo and DE Andre Carter, there's some potential for a nice sack total for the Skins, who have habitually finished near last in the league in sacks lately. We like the Redskins DST as a top-end No. 2 option, and they're a decent sleeper for those owners who play in leagues with 14 or more teams.
News: The Redskins have released Jason Taylor, one year after signing the former NFL defensive player of the year. The 34-year-old Taylor would have earned about $8 million this season and missed three games last year due to injuries. He declined the Redskins' request to add a clause to his contract requiring him to participate in 25 of 39 days in the team's offseason workout program. His 120.5 career sacks are the most among active NFL players. But he had just 3.5 last season. Redskins head coach Jim Zorn said Monday that Taylor "played hurt, but still gave his best effort to be prepared and play hard every week." This release was made in the wake of the club giving $41 million guaranteed to DT Albert Haynesworth.
Analysis: This definitely hurts the sack production of the Redskins as Taylor would have been a solid complement to Haynesworth along the defensive line. Now the best pass rusher the Redskins will have is Andre Carter, and frankly it puts them in the same hole they were in last season when Taylor got hurt. This isn't good. On paper, this DST is still fairly solid, but in reality, they're going to have to prove early on that no one is taking plays off or sitting out with a small injury. Expect them to be better against the run with Haynesworth on the D-line, but their pass game could struggle without a pass rush. Consider the Redskins DST a top-end No. 2 DST for now, and that's just to play it safe.
News: Friday was a big day for the Redskins -- literally! Not only did they re-sign CB DeAngelo Hall to a six-year contract extension, but they also signed DT Albert Haynesworth to a seven-year deal worth over $100 million with $41 million guaranteed. Both fill big needs for a Redskins defense that wasn't very effective last season. Also, cornerback Shawn Springs was released on Friday; Hall will likely be a starter along with Carlos Rogers.
Analysis: In theory, Haynesworth will clog run lanes and put additional pressure on opposing quarterbacks while Hall will cling to receivers downfield. However, neither one of these guys have the long-term track record of being elite players at their position. Haynesworth has played one 16-game season, has a very bad temper on and off the field and has been accused of not playing to his fullest in the past. Hall also has played poorly in the past. Both could have been motivated to play well in 2008 (for Haynesworth, 2007 and '08) for the pay day that they just got. So on paper, this DST is solid, but in reality, they're going to have to prove early on that no one is taking plays off or sitting out with a small injury. Consider them a top-end No. 2 DST for now, and that's just to play it safe.
News: The Washington Post reports that Redskins DE Jason Taylor is healed from knee and calf injuries and will be ready to start training camp this summer according to his agent.
Analysis: Taylor had an awful, injury-riddled first season for Washington where he wasn't blitzing as much as he was accustomed to in Miami. That's expected to change for Taylor, 34, who will enter a contract year in 2009. If he can piece together a solid season, the Redskins DST should be at least useful as a low-end option in the deepest of leagues and definitely a one-week replacement off the waiver wire.
News: The Washington Redskins defense allowed the San Francisco 49ers to come down field and hit a 39-yard field goal with no time left to lose the Week 17 game 27-24. The Redskins DST allowed 359 yards of offense to Shaun Hill and the Niners and only forced one turnover. That turnover came on an interception from Carlos Rogers. The Redskins only managed one sack by Andre Carter.
Analysis: The Redskins DST hasn't been very good at all of the last few weeks of the season and they haven't had that many takeaways. The team never had any monster Fantasy weeks and finished with just 13 interceptions, 24 sacks and one defensive touchdown. They were good at stopping yardage but did little else to make Fantasy owners happy. They should be considered no better than a No. 2 unit heading into 2009 Fantasy drafts.
News: Washington managed to grind out a victory in Week 16 against the Philadelphia Eagles at home, 10-3. The Redskins DST allowed just 275 yards of offense by the Eagles and much of that came very late in the game. Washington sacked QB Donovan McNabb just two times as Jason Taylor got both. The Redskins forced one turnover which came on a McNabb fumble recovered by London Fletcher.
Analysis: The Redskins limited points and yards in Week 16 but did little else worth noting in Fantasy leagues. Their defense is stingy but rarely comes up with big plays. Washington heads to San Francisco in Week 17 and can be used a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option against a much worse offense than that of the Eagles.
News: Washington was horrid on defense against a team not exactly lighting the world on fire in Week 15's debacle to the Bengals in Cincinnati. The Redskins DST allowed 310 yards to Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Bengals in the 20-13 loss. Washington didn't force a single turnover in the game and only sacked Fitzpatrick twice.
Analysis: The Redskins defense has been playing worse and worse of late and seems to be folding along with the rest of the team. Against Philadelphia in Week 16, it just doesn't seem like the Redskins DST should be trusted.
News: In the Redskins' 24-10 loss at the Ravens in Week 14, the DST was able to collect one interception of QB Joe Flacco and force one fumble. The Ravens' offense was otherwise limited, but Washington's defenders couldn't get to Joe Flacco or account for any more turnovers.
Analysis: If you want a sleeper DST for Week 15, the Redskins is it. That's because they play at the Bengals and are in line for some sacks, interceptions and perhaps a touchdown. If you're still alive in your league and platooning your DST, it's time to give this one a look.
News: Redskins LB London Fletcher, who was dealing with a sprained foot, is active Sunday at Baltimore and will start. DB Shawn Springs, however, is out with a calf strain.
Analysis: Keep Fletcher active in all leagues as a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues. Keep Springs reserved. And the Redskins DST is a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Ravens.
News: The Washington Redskins could not make any ground in the NFC East on Sunday of Week 13 in a 23-7 home loss to the Giants. The Redskins DST allowed 404 total yards to the Giants as Eli Manning threw for over 300 yards for the first time in nearly two seasons. The Redskins forced just one turnover on an interception from DeAngelo Hall. Washington amassed only two sacks of Manning as Andre Carter and Anthony Montgomery each had one apiece.
Analysis: Washington is a solid defense that doesn't force too many turnovers or make enough sacks to be considered a high-end Fantasy DST. Washington plays the offensively inept Ravens in Baltimore in Week 14 and could be a decent sleeper option in Fantasy.
News: Washington defeated the Seahawks 20-17 in Seattle on Sunday of Week 12. The Redskins DST limited Seattle to just 228 yards of offense in the game and forced two turnovers. LaRon Landry and Shawn Springs each had late interceptions to help secure the victory over Matt Hasselbeck's Seahawks. The Redskins sacked Hasselbeck twice as Rocky McIntosh had one.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has seven sacks in the last three weeks after having zero at Dallas in Week 11. They also have five picks the last three games. Washington is a solid defense that doesn't force too many turnovers or make enough sacks to be considered a high-end Fantasy DST. Washington plays the red-hot Giants at home in Week 13 and the Redskins DST is just a No. 2 option for that game.
News: In the Redskins' 14-10 loss vs. the Cowboys in Week 11, the DST came up with two interceptions while not getting the chance to sack QB Tony Romo. The Redskins also gave up 315 total net yards to Dallas.
Analysis: The news continues to be bad for the Redskins as their sack production stays stagnant and will find themselves playing at Seattle in Week 12. With the Seahawks' offense expected to be fairly resurgent, there will only be room for a few takeaways and not much else. The Redskins DST is not a solid starting option in Week 12; consider other options before finalizing your lineup.
News: The NFL Network is reports Redskins DE Jason Taylor and CB Shawn Springs will play Sunday against the Cowboys.
Analysis: This is good news for the Redskins DST. Consider Taylor a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues and Springs a No. 3 DB.
News:DeAngelo Hall's first regular day with the Washington Redskins was more of a chemistry test than a football exercise. Coach Jim Zorn opened a team meeting by directly addressing the outspoken cornerback's potential effect on the team's united locker room. Players conjured various scenarios about playing time for the two-time Pro Bowl player, who joins a cornerback crew that already includes two other former first-round draft picks (Carlos Rogers and Shawn Springs) as well as a former second-rounder (Fred Smoot). "Four different starters. Four different attitudes. Cocky, conceited guys," Rogers said with a smile. "But we're going to make it work. You ain't going to break up no chemistry or nothing like that. It's a lot of talented guys on the field, so we have no choice but to make it work."
Analysis: Hall signed a one-year contract Saturday and had his first practice Monday as the Redskins returned from a bye-week break. But his reputation had arrived well ahead of him, especially after he was cut last week by the Oakland Raiders just eight games into a seven-year, $70 million contract. He previously spent four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where his obvious talent was sometimes overshadowed by his clashes with coach Bobby Petrino. "I'm 24 years old," Hall said, addressing reporters at Redskins Park for the first time. "I have had a lot of success in this league, but I am still young. I still have a lot to learn. I still have a lot of maturing to do, and that all comes with time." Secondary coach Jerry Gray said he envisions Hall playing 20 to 30 plays Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys. What happens after that is anyone's guess, especially if all four top cornerbacks get healthy at the same time. Hall's addition can only help in Washington, but the Redskins DST still remains a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Less than one day after clearing waivers, CB DeAngelo Hall agreed Friday to a one-year contract with the Redskins. Hall should suit up for Washington's next game in Week 11 against Dallas. The Redskins, who have had injury problems in the secondary, have a bye this week, affording Hall the chance to learn the Redskins defense.
Analysis: We like the signing a lot. In two weeks, we might see a Redskins secondary with Shawn Springs, Carlos Rogers and Hall as a third corner with Jason Taylor rushing the passer. On paper, this unit looks great. How they play on the field will be an entirely different story. For now consider this unit a No. 2 option with some upside to be a hot property late in the year.
News: The Redskins recorded a season-high four sacks against the Steelers in Week 9, allowing 23 points on 229 yards. They also recorded an interception thanks to DL Cornelius Griffin.
Analysis: Entering the game with only 10 sacks in eight games, the Redskins DST didn't seem like a unit worth your time in Fantasy, but it had probably its best performance to date against the Steelers. Still, it remains a low-end Fantasy option Week 11 against the Cowboys after the team's bye in Week 10.
News: Defensive end Jason Taylor and cornerback Shawn Springs are expected to miss the game next week against Pittsburgh. Taylor had a minor procedure done on his injured left calf Monday. Coach Jim Zorn said Taylor has a skin infection - not a staph infection - that is being treated with antibiotics. Springs, meanwhile, will sit out a third consecutive game with a strained left calf. "We're going to hold him out," Zorn said.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is starting to show some holes as the Lions were able to move the ball through the air in Week 8. Figure that the Redskins DST is not a strong option in Week 9 as the Steelers' offense should be able to move the ball through the air as Washington's pass rush is containable without Taylor.
News: It wasn't easy for the Redskins in Week 8's win over the Lions. Washington defeated the winless Lions 25-17. The Redskins DST limited the Lions to 274 yards, though they did not force any turnovers in the contest. Washington's Demetric Evans picked up the team's only sack of QB Dan Orlovsky.
Analysis: The Redskins defense limited the yards on Sunday but did little else of Fantasy relevance against one of the worst teams in the NFL. It was a disappointing effort for sure. Washington plays host to Pittsburgh in Week 9 and that should be a tight defensive effort. Washington remains on the cusp of being a viable No. 1 Fantasy DST. They are a high-end No. 2, at worst, for Week 9 against the Steelers.
News: Redskins DT Cornelius Griffin's sprained right shoulder will keep him out of Sunday's game against the Lions. Griffin has been playing hurt since injuring the shoulder Oct. 5 against Philadelphia. Coach Jim Zorn said it was time to let Griffin heal. "I'm going to hold him out," Zorn said. "I just want to give him a real rest." Third-year lineman Anthony Montgomery will likely start in Griffin's place. CB Shawn Springs is expected to sit out for the second straight week - and for the third time in four games - with a strained left calf. Fred Smoot would start again opposite Carlos Rogers.
Analysis: Keep Springs and Griffin out in IDP leagues, although both have minimal Fantasy value when healthy. The Redskins DST remains a good start against the Lions even without those two players. Last year, Washington held Detroit to three points in a 34-3 victory.
News: Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs appears likely to miss at least one more game with a calf injury, while defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin might need a game off to deal with a nagging shoulder injury. Cornerback Fred Smoot is still nursing a sore groin and might have to miss some practice this week.
Analysis: After holding the Browns to 11 points in Week 7, the Redskins' secondary could be in for trouble if Springs and Smoot are gone, but the matchup against the Lions in Week 8 seems appealing because Detroit's offense is a mess. Consider the Redskins DST a sleeper for the coming week.
News: For 2 1/2 quarters, the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Browns produced lots of punts and no points in Week 7. The two teams started scoring after halftime and the Redskins won the game 14-11. The Redskins DST held Cleveland to just 236 total yards of offense but did not force any turnovers. Washington was particularly stingy around the goal line, where Cleveland had two first and goals late in the game. The Browns couldn't score on the first set and after getting the ball back, went to fourth down on the second before getting into the end zone. Washington only totaled one sack of quarterback Derek Anderson.
Analysis: The Redskins have been stout on defense this season if not flashy. They won't bring huge sack totals but they have been forcing turnovers and remain a decent start in most Fantasy weeks. Washington travels to lowly Detroit in Week 8 and should be an excellent starting option in Fantasy.
News: Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs was unable to practice Friday and was listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns. Springs aggravated a calf injury near the end of Thursday's practice. The injury caused Springs to miss the victory over Philadelphia two weeks ago, but he returned to play last week against St. Louis. Defensive end Jason Taylor, who also aggravated a calf injury this week, missed practice for the second day in a row and is questionable but expected to play. Safety Chris Horton (ankle) and cornerback Fred Smoot (groin) practiced and were listed as questionable. Cornerback Carlos Rogers (calf) is probable.
Analysis: With Springs likely out, this defense will be ripe for some big passing plays allowed by the Browns, who found their stroke last Monday and will have TE Kellen Winslow back. This DST isn't as appealing as it was, say, two weeks ago. Consider other options before settling with the Redskins DST in Week 7.
News: The Washington Redskins lost their second game of the season in Week 6 to the previously win-less St. Louis Rams. The Rams won 19-17 as the Redskins allowed 200 total yards of offense. Washington forced one St. Louis turnover, a fumble from Steven Jackson, and sacked QB Mark Bulger twice. Shawn Springs and Alex Montgomery picked up the sacks for Washington.
Analysis: The Redskins limited the damage against the Rams and still lost the game. Washington has five interceptions and eight sacks this season. They host the Cleveland Browns in Week 7 and remain a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: Redskins DE Jason Taylor practiced for the second straight day Friday and appears set to play in Sunday's game against the St. Louis Rams. "I don't know if he's going to start, but he's going to participate," coach Jim Zorn said. Taylor has missed two games since undergoing surgery on his left calf Sept. 22. He returned to practice Thursday wearing a titanium pad to protect the stitches in his leg. DT Cornelius Griffin, who sprained his right shoulder in last week's win over Philadelphia, returned to practice Friday and is listed as probable. "It looks like he's going to get the OK," Zorn said. CB Shawn Springs, who missed last week's game with a strained left calf, practiced for the second day in a row and is also probable. The news was less promising for LB Marcus Washington, who remains limited by a nagging hamstring injury and will be a game-time decision. Backup safety Reed Doughty will miss the game with a back injury.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a great start for Week 6 against the Rams. Consider them a No. 1 option this week in all leagues.
News: Washington defeated the Eagles in Philadelphia on Sunday of Week 5 by the score of 23-17 and held the Eagles to just 254 total net yards of offense. The Eagles running game was particularly stifled with just 58 total yards on the ground. The Redskins DST didn't recover any turnovers in the game and also failed to sack quarterback Donovan McNabb.
Analysis: Despite no turnovers or sacks in the game, Washington really limited the Eagles after Philly jumped out to a 14-0 lead early. The Redskins have been very solid this season en route to starting the year 4-1 in the NFC East. Washington limited the Cowboys and now the Eagles on the road in successive weeks and that makes their DST a slightly more attractive option as they head home in Week 6 against the lowly Rams. Consider starting the Redskins as a No. 1 Fantasy DST at home against St. Louis.
News: Washington defensive starters DB Shawn Springs, DE Jason Taylor and LB Marcus Washington are all inactive and out for Week 5 against the Eagles in Philadelphia.
Analysis: The loss of all three individually won't be felt too much in IDP leagues, as they are only low-end Fantasy IDP players in IDP formats. However, the Redskins DST takes a bit of a blow being without a starting corner, end and linebacker. The Skins are just a low-end bye-week replacement option, especially against a solid Philly offense in Week 5.
News: The Washington Post reports that Redskins DB Shawn Springs' is highly likely to be among the inactives for the Redskins' Week 5 game at the Eagles.
Analysis: The loss of Springs won't be felt too much in IDP leagues, as he's only a low-end bye-week replacement Fantasy DB in IDP formats. However, the Redskins DST takes a bit of a blow. Still think of them as an OK bye-week replacement, but you should probably lower your expectations.
News: The Washington Post is reporting that although cornerback Shawn Springs did not practice all week because of a calf injury, he could play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Coach Jim Zorn said after practice yesterday at Redskins Park. "Shawn Springs, to me, is still a question mark," Zorn said. "I just want to see what happens on Sunday for him. He would be one guy I would definitely play without the reps."
Analysis: Springs is a low-end Fantasy DB in IDP formats, but his presence is key to a decent Redskins DST. Don't start him in Week 5 vs. Philadelphia, but feel free to rely on the Washington DST as a decent bye-week replacement option.
News: The Washington Redskins likely will be without two defensive starters for Sunday's NFC East game against the Philadelphia Eagles: Shawn Springs and Jason Taylor. Cornerback Springs didn't practice Thursday or Friday because of a strained calf muscle. He is listed as questionable but doesn't seem likely to play. DE Jason Taylor has been ruled out, two weeks after suffering a career-threatening calf injury that he had emergency surgery for.
Analysis: Two solid veterans will be missing for the Redskins at this point, and that will hurt the value of this defense, especially against a potent offense like Philadelphia's. Consider other options before starting the Redskins DST in Week 5.
News: The Washington Times reports that Redskins CB Shawn Springs had treatment on his left calf Tuesday and said he's walking fine.
Analysis: Springs is a low-end Fantasy DB in IDP formats, but his presence is key to a decent Redskins DST. Don't start him in Week 5 vs. Philadelphia, but feel free to rely on the Washington DST as a decent bye-week replacement option.
News: Washington defeated Dallas in Big D on Sunday by the score of 26-24. The Redskins DST forced the Cowboys into just one turnover, an interception from rookie Chris Horton, en route to allowing Dallas 344 total yards of offense. The 'Skins didn't get to quarterback Tony Romo for any sacks. Carlos Rogers led the team with seven tackles and multiple passes defended.
Analysis: The Redskins may have not been flashy on defense on Sunday against the Cowboys, but in Dallas, they got the job done. Washington performed admirably despite not having Jason Taylor and having most of their cornerbacks miss extended game time with various injuries and cramps. Washington heads to Philadelphia for a Week 5 matchup and they remain a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST. Start them unless you have an elite option.
News: What seemed like an annoying kick in the calf turned into a significant medical issue for Redskins DE Jason Taylor, who underwent a 20-minute procedure Monday and will miss next week's game against the Cowboys. Taylor was kicked in his left leg in the second quarter of Sunday's 24-17 victory over the Cardinals but finished the game and had three tipped passes - including two during a crucial stand inside the Redskins' 10-yard line in the second half. But the leg became painful and sore Sunday night, and he lost feeling in his ankle as blood began to pool. Taylor checked into a hospital early Monday morning. "They went in and cut open that portion where the blood was pooling and released that pressure," Zorn said. "He's going to be fine. Our problem is that he's going to be out for this Dallas game for sure. I can't tell you beyond that."
Analysis: As if the Redskins DST wasn't already in trouble for their Week 4 matchup at Dallas, this is icing on the proverbial cake. With one of their better defensive players on the shelf, keep the Redskins DST out of Fantasy lineups in Week 4.
News: Washington defeated the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3 in Washington, 24-17. The Redskins DST took a bend but don't break philosophy as they allowed 313 total yards but didn't let the Cardinals score when it counted most. The Redskins forced two Arizona turnovers, as Carlos Rogers recovered a fumble and also intercepted a Kurt Warner pass. The Redskins got to Warner for two total sacks as Kendrick Golston got one and Rocky McIntosh and Andre Carter split for the other.
Analysis: Washington's defense was pretty sharp against a solid Arizona offense. They swarm the ball and make the tackles near the goal line when it counts most. The Redskins DST wasn't really a viable Fantasy option in Week 3, however, and unfortunately will be an even worse option in Week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys. Don't start them.
News: Washington defeated the Saints at home on Sunday, 29-24, as the Redskins DST limited the high-flying Saints offense -- sans Marques Colston -- to just 250 total yards of offense. Two Redskins, Jason Taylor and Cornelius Griffin, managed to sack quarterback Drew Brees. The All-Star on defense for the 'Skins, however, was Chris Horton. Horton, making his first NFL start, recorded a fumble recovery and intercepted two passes. Former Miami Hurricanes LB Rocky McIntosh forced ex-teammate Jeremy Shockey to fumble.
Analysis: The Saints are a top offense so Washington did a nice job in limiting them and earning the victory on Sunday. The Redskins DST came into the game as a low-end No. 2 DST in Fantasy and will be an even better option in Week 3 when they face the Arizona Cardinals, also at home. They are definitely worth a start in Week 3.
News: At the end of Thursday's practice, Washington Redskins coach Jim Zorn figured it was time to cure the interception drop-itis that affected his team in the first game. He came up with an exercise in which he and his quarterbacks drilled quick passes to each of the defensive backs, who caught the ball while shuttling back and fourth about 10 yards away. Carlos Rogers, notorious for having stone hands, caught all five of his passes. Fred Smoot dropped three and had to repeat the exercise, drawing plenty of grief from his teammates. To no one's surprise, Shawn Springs went 5-for-5. "How'd I look?" Springs said with a smile as he walked off the field. "Good enough to play receiver?" Perhaps, but definitely good enough to play cornerback.
Analysis: Cornerback is where the Redskins need Springs, and where he was sorely missed when he had to sit out the season-opening loss to the New York Giants. Springs was a late scratch with a deep bruise from getting kicked in the shin at practice earlier in the week. He watched from the sideline as Plaxico Burress roamed through the Washington secondary to collect 10 passes for 133 yards. Springs said the injury felt like "taking a 2-by-4 across your shin," but that he's now healthy and ready for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. "Shawn's our most experienced corner," defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. "He's got real good hands. He's got a lot of savvy, and it'll really help us a great deal to have Shawn back." Consider Springs a low-end Fantasy DB when healthy. His return helps the Redskins DST, but they are still a No. 2 option against a potent offense like New Orleans.
News: The Redskins defense got a big boost heading into their Week 1 matchup against the Giants when Jason Taylor was allowed to play despite a knee injury. However, they were down starting corner Shawn Springs to a calf injury and it proved costly in a 16-7 loss. The Giants totaled 354 yards, including 200 through the air. Fred Smoot and Leigh Torrence, Springs' replacements, allowed Giants WR Plaxico Burress to total 10 catches for 133 yards. Smoot did have the team's only interception while Chris Wilson got a sack, and Andre Carter and LaRon Landry each had 1/2 a sack.
Analysis: The Redskins will definitely need Taylor to be at 100 percent and Springs back on the field in Week 2 if they want to contain the Saints' high-powered offense. The Redskins DST remains a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 2.
News: NFL Network reports that Redskins DE Jason Taylor (knee) will play vs. the Giants in Week 1 action.
Analysis: While this will help the Redskins DST value for Week 1, don't count on them to be dominant as the Giants boast a good O-line and should gain plenty of yards on Washington. Keep them benched if you have that option.
News: Redskins DE Jason Taylor is expected to be sidelined 10-14 days with a sprained right knee, putting his availability in doubt for Washington's season opener against the Giants on Sept. 4, but making him a likely go for the rest of the regular season. Head coach Jim Zorn said Taylor underwent an MRI on Sunday and estimated the six-time Pro Bowler will be out from 10 to 14 days. Taylor was hurt in a 47-3 preseason loss to the Carolina Panther on Saturday.
Analysis: This saves the overall value of the Redskins DST, which needs Taylor in order to be successful. Treat the unit as a low-end No. 1 option worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Redskins DE Jason Taylor is expected to be sidelined 10-14 days with a sprained right knee, putting his availability in doubt for Washington's season opener against the Giants on Sept. 4, but making him a likely go for the rest of the regular season. Head coach Jim Zorn said Taylor underwent an MRI on Sunday and estimated the six-time Pro Bowler will be out from 10 to 14 days. Taylor was hurt in a 47-3 preseason loss to the Carolina Panther on Saturday.
Analysis: This saves the overall value of the Redskins DST, which needs Taylor in order to be successful. Treat the unit as a low-end No. 1 option worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Washington Redskins defensive end Jason Taylor left Saturday's game against Carolina with a sprained right knee. The six-time Pro Bowl pick, acquired in a trade with Miami last month, was hurt when his leg bent awkwardly after he ended up in the middle of the pile following DeAngelo Williams' 5-yard run. Taylor immediately screamed in pain and was attended to for several minutes on the field. He walked off the field on his own, but put little pressure on his right leg. The Redskins DST totaled three sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles vs. the Panthers.
Analysis: If the Redskins are to be without Taylor for an extended period of time, their expected production will drop off sharply. Until we know how bad Taylor is hurt, the Redskins DST is no better than a late-round flier as a borderline low-end No. 1 DST option.
News: The Washington Post reports that Redskins CB Carlos Rogers worked out at full speed Tuesday and looks great. Rogers suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee last October and is nine months removed from the surgery. He's a bit ahead of schedule in his recovery and is aiming to be ready for the start of the regular season. "We're kind of feeling it out and seeing what he can actually do and how it's going to bounce back, how the knee is going to react -- those are the kinds of things that we are looking at. I think if we just stay on target and don't push it, he'll be fine," secondary coach Jerry Gray said.
Analysis: Rogers only enhances to overall appeal of the Redskins DST, a unit that added DE Jason Taylor in July. That said, expect a healthy amount of sacks and interceptions this season, but the return game is still a question mark, and their schedule is tough, namely because they play the other three NFC East teams twice each. Think of the Skins DST as a low-end No. 1 option worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer.
News: According to the official team site, Washington's special teams coordinator Danny Smith said that Rock Cartwright is slated to keep his kickoff return duties and Antwaan Randle El will remain the punt return specialist, barring any unforeseen changes.
Analysis: Cartwright returned 52 kickoffs for a 25.8-yard average in 2007. Cartwright appears destined to finish his NFL career as a kick returner and has pretty much no Fantasy value until that changes. Still, he's an above-average kick returner for the 'Skins DST.
News: Redskins.com reports that Reed Doughty appears to have a hold on the starting strong safety position at the moment. Defensive coordinator Greg Blache likes what he saw from him last season after moving to the starter's role when LaRon Landry moved to free safety for the deceased Sean Taylor. "If you give someone an opportunity, the good ones are going to rise to it, and the so-so aren't," Blache said. "Reed is one of those guys who is going to rise to the challenge. When you first meet him, you see a serious individual. You see someone committed to football. He has that passion for the game. He has got the smarts. It's not like he's infallible and he never makes a mistake, but he doesn't make the same mistake twice. That's his trademark. And that's why he has gotten so much better."
Analysis: Doughty is a respected player in the locker room, especially after he entered the lineup for the late Taylor last December. Doughty finished with 49 tackles and a half-sack in six starts last season. He's a low-end Fantasy DB with upside in IDP leagues. With Landry opposite hitting the stuffing out of people, Doughty could see an increase in interceptions.
News: Redskins.com reports that LaRon Landry will stay at free safety for the foreseeable future, defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. The Redskins drafted Landry in the first round in 2007 with the intention of playing him at strong safety. With the tragic death of Sean Taylor last November, Landry shifted to free safety. "I just think LaRon brings so much to the table for us at the free safety spot," Blache said. "He's such a force back there, being able to play from sideline to sideline. I like the ability he has back there. Until I come up with something better, then we're not fooling with it."
Analysis: Landry finished with 97 tackles, third-best on the defense, and 1.5 sacks. He also had two fourth-quarter interceptions in the Redskins' playoff game at Seattle. Landry has a chance to be a solid DB in IDP leagues this year. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option with upside coming into this season.
News: The Washington Redskins traded for defensive end Jason Taylor on Sunday, sending two draft picks to the Miami Dolphins. The Redskins gave the Dolphins a second-round pick in 2009 and a sixth-round pick in 2010. Washington executive vice president Vinny Cerrato said Taylor is expected to report to Redskins training camp on Monday. The deal came only hours after the Redskins lost starting defensive end Phillip Daniels to a season-ending knee injury.
Analysis: The Redskins were forced to make a move Sunday after losing Daniels, who was the team's starting left end. Taylor is used to playing on the left, and the Redskins will make sure to get him in the lineup anyway possible. Taylor had 56 tackles, 11 sacks, one interception, one touchdown and four forced fumbles in 2007. It was the third straight season he had 10-plus sacks and the fifth time since 2002. Taylor is a solid No. 2 Fantasy DL. Adding Taylor to the defense definitely helps the Fantasy value of the Redskins DST, but they are still more of a high-end No. 2 Fantasy unit.
News: Washington Redskins defensive end Phillip Daniels will miss the season after tearing a left knee ligament Sunday during the first practice of training camp.
Analysis: Daniels was hurt on the initial play of 7-on-7 offense vs. defense drills Sunday. He stayed down on the turf for several minutes before being taken away on a cart, a towel draped over his head. Daniels has played 12 seasons in the NFL with Washington, Chicago and Seattle. His 59 career sacks rank 17th among active players. Daniels had 37 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks and four forced fumbles in 15 games last season. If he can't play during the 2008 season, his loss will be minimal in Fantasy. The Redskins DST is still a decent No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: Washington Redskins defensive end Phillip Daniels injured a left knee ligament Sunday during the first practice of training camp and could miss the upcoming season, a person within the NFL said. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Redskins had not yet made an official announcement about the nature of Daniels' injury. Redskins coach Jim Zorn was expected to discuss Daniels' status after running his team through its second practice Sunday. ESPN.com first reported that Daniels hurt his anterior cruciate ligament and it was a potentially season-ending injury.
Analysis: Daniels was hurt on the initial play of 7-on-7 offense vs. defense drills Sunday. He stayed down on the turf for several minutes before being taken away on a cart, a towel draped over his head. Daniels has played 12 seasons in the NFL with Washington, Chicago and Seattle. His 59 career sacks rank 17th among active players. Daniels had 37 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks and four forced fumbles in 15 games last season. If he can't play during the 2008 season, his loss will be minimal in Fantasy. The Redskins DST is still a decent No. 2 Fantasy DST.
News: Able to rescind their waiver transaction for former first-round pick DE Erasmus James, the Vikings instead traded him to Washington for a conditional seventh-round choice in the 2009 NFL Draft. "We really liked Erasmus coming out of college," team VP of football operations Vinny Cerrato said. "He's young and talented, and he has a great deal of potential. We like the fact that his defensive line coach at the University of Wisconsin--John Palermo--is our current defensive line coach."
Analysis: The Redskins defense totaled 33 sacks, 24 fumble recoveries, 14 interceptions and a pair of defensive touchdowns last season, finishing in the middle of the pack among DSTs; the club itself ranked fourth against the run and 16th against the pass. The defense is back nearly in tact under the same scheme (without defensive coordinator Gregg Williams), so look for the Redskins to improve in 2008. Even without CB Carlos Rogers to start the season (he'll still be rehabbing from a torn ACL and MCL), they're worth a late-round flier in deeper leagues this summer.
News: In 2007, the Redskins defense totaled 33 sacks, 24 fumble recoveries, 14 interceptions and a pair of defensive touchdowns. They finished in the middle of the pack among DSTs; the club itself ranked fourth against the run and 16th against the pass.
Analysis: With the entire starting defense expected to come back in tact under the same scheme, look for the Redskins to improve in 2008. They might add a starter or two via the draft or free agency, but building depth will be key for them. Even without CB Carlos Rogers to start the season (he'll still be rehabbing from a torn ACL and MCL), they're worth a late-round flier in deeper leagues this summer.
News: Against one of the highest-scoring offenses in the league, the Redskins defense allowed six points on 154 yards Week 17 vs. the Cowboys. It also recorded two sacks and an interception. The Redskins special teams, meanwhile, picked up 109 yards.
Analysis: The Redskins benefited from Dallas simply not caring, having already locked up the No. 1 seed in the NFL. Their DST had a solid season overall, allowing more than 20 points only once, but they remain more of a matchups type in Fantasy.
News: The Redskins opened the scoring Week 16 against the Vikings with help from their defense. Kedric Golston led the charge that stopped Tony Richardson in the end zone for a safety that started the scoring a 2-0, and Washington would go onto a 32-21 win. The Redskins shut out the Vikings in the first half, but then allowed 21 points in the second half. Minnesota finished with 299 total yards. Washington forced three turnovers -- two interceptions and one fumble -- and managed one sack.
Analysis: The Vikings were the first team in five games to score more than 20 points against the Redskins. Washington has been motivated on defense ever since the death of their teammate Sean Taylor and it shows. There is a chance Dallas doesn't play their regulars for too long Week 17 as Washington has a playoff spot on the line. Consider the Redskins DST a low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Redskins defense needed one of their finest performances Week 15 against the Giants in hopes of keeping Washington in playoff contention. They delivered with mixed results. Washington allowed 307 yards, but held New York to 10 points. They forced just one turnover -- a fumble -- and managed to sack Eli Manning twice.
Analysis: The Redskins have not allowed their last four opponents -- the Bucs, Bills, Bears and Giants -- to score more than 20 points. Not too bad. Unfortunately, they don't create a lot of turnovers or sacks. That hurts the Redskins DST value. Consider the Redskins DST a low-end Fantasy option heading into Week 16 against the Vikings.
News: The Redskins defense wasted little time in altering Bears head coach Lovie Smith's gameplan Week 14. Washington knocked out Bears starting QB Rex Grossman with a left knee injury less than five minutes in. Brian Griese had to finish out the game. He threw for 295 yards and a score, but also threw two costly interceptions to Shawn Springs in the first half. The Bears totaled 356 yards and 16 points. Washington walked away with two sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins have not allowed an opponent to post more than 20 points in the last three games, but they lack a serious pass rush and a real serious threat in the return game. That hurts their Fantasy DST value. The Redskins DST is merely a low-end Fantasy option heading into Week 15 against the Giants.
News: The Redskins allowed 17 points and 357 yards of total offense in Week 13 vs. Buffalo. They forced just one turnover and did not have any sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins played a very emotional game in Week 13 after the loss of teammate Sean Taylor and they were able to hold the Bills to just 17 points, but could not offer Fantasy owners much else. In Week 14 vs. Chicago, consider them only in extremely deep leagues.
News: Redskins safety Sean Taylor died early Tuesday, a day after the Pro Bowl player was shot at home by what police say was an intruder. He was 24. Taylor died at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he had been airlifted after the shooting early Monday. Doctors had been encouraged late Monday when Taylor squeezed a nurse's hand, according to Vinny Cerrato, the Redskins' vice president of football operations. Taylor, the fifth overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft following an All-American season at the University of Miami, was shot early Monday in the upper leg, damaging an artery and causing significant blood loss.
Analysis: This year, Taylor was allowed to play a true free safety position, using his speed and power to chase down passes and crush would-be receivers. His five interceptions tie for the league lead in the NFC, even though he missed the last two games because of a sprained knee. Assistant coach Gregg Williams frequently called Taylor the best athlete he'd ever coached. His season ends with 42 total tackles, nine passes defensed and a forced fumble to go with those five interceptions. "He loved football. He felt like that's what he was made to do," Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said. "And I think what I've noticed over the last year and a half ... is he matured. I think his baby had a huge impact on him. There was a real growing up in his life."
News: The Washington Redskins DST held Tampa Bay to only 192 total yards and 19 points and tallied three sacks in a 19-13 loss to the Buccaneers in Week 12. They did not record an interception or a fumble recovery, however.
Analysis: If your league rewards yardage handsomely, then the Redskins came through nicely for you in Week 12. However, the lack of turnovers stopped them from having a great day. Consider them a nice DST option in Week 13 against the Bills.
News: The Redskins allowed 359 yards of total offense and 28 points in Week 11 at Dallas. They forced one turnover -- an interception by London Fletcher -- and had one sack.
Analysis: The Redskins were torched by Terrell Owens for four touchdowns and 173 yards, but otherwise played decent against a very tough offense. The Redskins defense should only be used in leagues of 12-plus teams when they face overwhelmingly favorable matchups, though. Week 12 at Tampa Bay does not fall into that category.
News: The Redskins DST will travel to face the Cowboys in Dallas on Sunday in Week 11. The Cowboys are ranked second in total offense (third in the passing game and 10th on the ground).
Analysis: The Redskins DST is ranked 11th in total defense, including 21st against the pass and 10th against the run. They have 22 sacks on the season, but Romo is evasive enough that he has only been sacked 13 times through nine games. We don't recommend starting this DST in Fantasy play this week.
News: The Redskins DST totaled two sacks of Donovan McNabb and a pair of forced fumbles vs. Philadelphia in Week 10. They allowed 251 passing yards and 139 rushing yards -- and 183 total yards to Brian Westbrook.
Analysis: Moreover, the Redskins defense started to break down in the second half and hasn't been the same without CB Carlos Rogers, who is out for the season. Expect them to be a No. 2 Fantasy DST at Dallas in Week 11. Look elsewhere for DST help.
News: Washington hosts the Eagles in Week 10 on Sunday. The Eagles rank ninth in total offense, with an 11th-ranked passing game led by Donovan McNabb. In 14 games against the Redskins, he has thrown for 2,856 yards, 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is ranked 10th in total defense (18th against the pass and ninth against the run). Consider this unit in 12-team leagues if your top DST is on a bye.
News: The Redskins allowed 20 points and 338 yards of total offense in Week 9 at the N.Y. Jets. They picked up three sacks and also forced one fumble.
Analysis: The Redskins had a good matchup against a poor offense, but they fell behind early in the game before locking down the Jets in the second half. The Skins are a middle-of-the-road Fantasy unit and they should only be considered as a bye-week replacement for Week 10 vs. Philadelphia.
News: According to the Washington Post, tests on Redskins DB Carlos Rogers' right knee revealed a torn ACL and MCL. He will undergo surgery when the swelling subsides in a few weeks.
Analysis: Rogers was only a very low-end factor in IDP leagues before getting hurt, and his value is now zero after this nasty injury. Release him immediately.
News: The Redskins defense had one sack and one forced fumble in Week 8 action at New England, and both instances happened on the same play when Phillip Daniels sacked Tom Brady in the second quarter, forcing the fumble (Andre Carter recovered).
Analysis: The Redskins gave up over 300 passing yards as the Patriots totaled 52 points (they did score one defensive touchdown). Brady had three passing scores and two rushing scores. Despite this embarrassing performance, the Redskins DST is a great start in Week 9 when they play the Jets in New Jersey. Start them for Week 9 Fantasy action.
News: Since Week 5, the Redskins DST ranks first in most Fantasy scoring formats. They have allowed 39 points in three games, and they have six interceptions, with eight sacks and a league-high seven fumble recoveries in that span.
Analysis: The Redskins DST ranks fifth in total defense, but they'll host the Patriots' top-ranked offense in Week 8 on Sunday. Despite the red-hot DST unit, we don't recommend starting them in this matchup.
News: The Cardinals offense racked up 364 total yards and scored three touchdowns against the Redskins defense Week 7, but Washington got a little revenge when London Fletcher intercepted a Kurt Warner pass and returned it 27 yards for a touchdown. They picked off two of Warner's passes, forced two fumbles (one recovered) and recorded one sack.
Analysis: The Redskins did allow many yards against the Cardinals, but they helped make up for that with the touchdown on defense and a few interceptions. The Redskins still own one of the top defenses in the NFL and are usually a must-start Fantasy DST. However, they face the high-powered Patriots' offense in Week 8 and it might be time to use a DST with a more favorable matchup.
News: The Redskins DST will host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. Arizona has Tim Rattay behind center -- the third quarterback in three weeks for the Cardinals -- and they rank 17th in total offense.
Analysis: The Redskins DST ranks third overall in total defense, allowing 13.8 ppg after six weeks. They rank fifth against the pass and sixth against the run. Start them against a Cardinals offense that is sure to struggle.
News: The Redskins DST had two interceptions and two sacks Sunday against Green Bay. DB Sean Taylor had both interceptions, DL Chris Wilson had a sack and DL Phillip Daniels and DL Anthony Montgomery combined for a sack. On special teams, Antwaan Randle El had one punt return for 4 yards and Rock Cartwright had four kickoff returns for a 40.8-yard average.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is worth starting in Week 7 against Arizona at home.
News: Washington will travel to play Green Bay at Lambeau Field in Week 6. The Packers have the sixth-ranked offense in the NFL (first in the passing game and 31st in the running game). They have allowed nine sacks and QB Brett Favre has been intercepted four times.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been inconsistent this season so far, but they currently rank third overall in total defense with 268 yards allowed per game. They have 12 sacks and four interceptions so far this year. We recommend starting this unit in 12-team leagues this week.
News: The Redskins DST scored a touchdown, got a safety, had two interceptions and had five sacks Sunday against Detroit. Carlos Rogers scored on an interception return and Andre Carter got the safety. Rock Cartwright had two kickoff returns for 46 yards, James Thrash had one kickoff return for 20 yards and two punt returns for 70 yards and Antwaan Randle El had one punt return for 1 yard.
Analysis: The Redskins DST should be considered a low-end No. 1 option in Week 6 at Green Bay.
News: The Redskins' defense is ranked 13th in total defense, with seven sacks and only 92 yards per game allowed in the rushing game.
Analysis: The Redskins DST faces Detroit in Week 5. The Lions are fourth in the NFL in total offense, but it's their top-ranked passing game that will give Washington troubles. They'll have plenty of sack and INT opportunities, but this DST is only a good bye-week replacement.
News: The Redskins DST will be on a bye in Week 4, before playing against Detroit in Week 5.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has seven sacks so far this season, along with two interceptions in three games. They are a low-end Fantasy option in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Redskins defense came out and shut down the Giants during the first half of their Week 3 showdown. The Giants went into the half with just three points on a Lawrence Tynes' field goal. The second half was a totally different story. The Giants scored three touchdowns and finished with 24 points. They managed 315 yards of offense. The Redskins defense did sack QB Eli Manning two times and force three turnovers (two interceptions and one fumble).
Analysis: The Redskins had allowed just 25 points and just one touchdown in their previous two games heading into Week 3. The Giants might have exposed some weaknesses that other NFL teams can take advantage moving forward. The Redskins have the personnel to be a solid defense, but are nothing more than a low-end Fantasy DST at this time. Washington is on a bye in Week 4 and return to action Week 5 against the Lions -- a very potent offensive team.
News: The Washington Redskins DST allowed just 12 points on all field goals in Week 2 at Philadelphia. They also picked up three sacks, but did not have any interceptions or fumble recoveries while allowing 340 total net yards.
Analysis: The Redskins have allowed just 25 points in two games and just one touchdown in two wins. They'll face the Giants in Week 3, a team which has not exactly been a juggernaut this season. Consider them in deeper Fantasy leagues or in weekly formats if you need a bye week replacement.
News: Redskins DL Phillip Daniels did not practice again Saturday and was downgraded to doubtful for Monday night's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Daniels, who sprained his foot last week against Miami, said the prudent thing might be for him to sit out Monday night and prepare instead for the next week's game against the New York Giants. "You don't want to go out and set yourself back," Daniels said. "Or go out and into the game and play only a quarter. You want to be smart."
Analysis: Daniels' injury could provide first test of the team's youth movement along the defensive line. Demetric Evans, who has 11 career NFL starts, would likely take Daniels' spot in the starting lineup. The only other defensive end on the roster is undersized but speedy first-year player Chris Wilson, who made his NFL debut last week against the Dolphins. The Eagles didn't have a great offensive output against the Packers in Week 1, but likely will be fired up to do so against the Redskins. Consider the Redskins at best a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 2.
News: Depleted at safety because of injuries, the Redskins signed veteran Omar Stoutmire on Wednesday. Stoutmire was in training camp with the Redskins but was cut Sept. 1. He played 10 games with Washington in 2005 and spent 2006 with New Orleans. He also has played with Dallas, the New York Jets and New York Giants in his 11-year career. The Redskins needed an extra body because two backup safeties were hurt in Sunday's 16-13 overtime win over Miami. Pierson Prioleau injured a hamstring, and Vernon Fox suffered a groin injury.
Analysis: Stoutmire is there for depth, nothing more, nothing less. With the Redskins playing at Philadelphia in Week 2, they should be left on the Fantasy bench.
News: The Redskins DST came away from their Week 1 OT victory vs. Miami with no interceptions, one fumble recovery, two sacks, and only 13 points allowed.
Analysis: The Dolphins aren't exactly an offensive juggernaut full of weapons and played very conservatively on Sunday. They didn't give the Redskins many chances for turnovers, although Fred Smoot dropped a fourth-quarter pass from Trent Green that would have been a sure interception return for a touchdown. In Week 2 against an Eagles offense that struggled in Week 1 vs. Green Bay, the Redskins DST might be a good sleeper start, but they are still no more than a No. 2 Fantasy DST option.
News: The Dolphins offense is not going to scare many defenses, but Cam Cameron has had plenty of time to prepare for the Redskins defense, which was No. 31 overall last year.
Analysis: The Redskins DST aren't expected to improve much this year, so keep them reserved this week and for most of the season.
News: LT Chris Samuels (knee) and LB Marcus Washington (elbow) took part in individual drills on Tuesday, but neither will play in Thursday's preseason finale at Jacksonville.
Analysis: It appears as though Washington can't shake the injury bug. His inclusion or exclusion from the lineup doesn't mean much. However, they have to play the Eagles, Giants and Cowboys twice a year each, and they should have trouble in those contests. They are still a No. 2 DST in Fantasy leagues this season.
News: With Marcus Washington nursing an elbow injury, the Redskins signed veteran linebacker Randall Godfrey on Tuesday and surprisingly released linebacker Lemar Marshall. Godfrey has played for Dallas, Tennessee, Seattle and San Diego over 11 NFL seasons. He spent the last three years with the Chargers, who opted to not re-sign him this offseason after calf and hamstring injuries hampered him late in 2006. He will be reunited in Washington with assistant coach Gregg Williams, who was Tennessee's defensive coordinator when Godfrey played with in the Titans in 2000. Marshall signed with the Redskins in 2001 and worked his way into a starting role in 2004. He lost his starting job when London Fletcher signed as a free agent this offseason but had been expected to remain on the team as a reserve.
Analysis: Godfrey will provide depth at linebacker for the Redskins, probably at a cheaper cost than Marshall. The Redskins DST may look like a sleeper unit, considering they signed LB London Fletcher-Baker and CB Fred Smoot, but the club still leaves a lot to be desired, particularly up front. Moreover, they'll face the Eagles, Giants and Cowboys twice a year each, and they should have trouble in those contests. They are still a No. 2 DST in Fantasy leagues this season.
News: ESPN reports that the Redskins and top pick DB LaRon Landry agreed to a five-year contract. Landry should start right away, most likely as a safety next to Sean Taylor in Washington's backfield.
Analysis: The Redskins DST may look like a sleeper unit, considering they signed LB London Fletcher-Baker and CB Fred Smoot, but the club still leaves a lot to be desired, particularly up front. Moreover, they'll face the Eagles and Cowboys twice a year, and they should have trouble in those contests. They are still a No. 2 DST in Fantasy leagues this season.
News: With the sixth pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the Redskins took LSU safety LaRon Landry. He is expected to start right away at strong safety opposite Sean Taylor and provide a boost to the Washington defense.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is starting to look like a sleeper unit. The Skins have already signed LB London Fletcher and CB Fred Smoot, and the addition of Landry will only boost their production. Last year, the Redskins DST put up the fewest amount of points of all 32 teams in standard-scoring leagues last year, ending with six interceptions (last in the league), 19 sacks (last in the league), six fumble recoveries (30th in NFL), zero defensive TDs and two special teams scores. They are still a No. 2 DST, but they should be considered a sleeper option and may be worth a late-round flier in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: With safety Adam Archuleta on the way out, the Washington Redskins signed free agent Omar Stoutmire to take his place Wednesday. Stoutmire, a 10-year veteran, played for the Redskins in 2005 and spent last season with New Orleans. He joins Vernon Fox and Reed Doughty as the safeties expected to compete for playing time behind starters Sean Taylor and Pierson Prioleau. Stoutmire has also played with Dallas, the New York Jets and New York Giants.
Analysis: The Skins have already signed LB London Fletcher and CB Fred Smoot, so their defense will have a very veteran look to it in 2007. That's not necessarily a good thing since the Redskins DST put up the fewest amount of points of all 32 teams in standard-scoring leagues last year, ending with six interceptions (last in the league), 19 sacks (last in the league), six fumble recoveries (30th in NFL), zero defensive TDs and two special teams scores. At best, they're a No. 2 DST in 2007.
News: The Washington Times reports that Redskins coach Joe Gibbs plans on having veterans CB Shawn Springs, DEs Renaldo Wynn and Phillip Daniels and SS Adam Archuleta all back with the team in 2007. All four were rumored to be cap casualties or trade bait. "As poorly as everything went last year, we all feel that we have the right kind of guys and that we should be better. We don't have to tear everything up," Gibbs said.
Analysis: The Skins have already signed LB London Fletcher and CB Fred Smoot, so their defense will have a very veteran look to it in 2007. That's not necessarily a good thing since the Redskins DST put up the fewest amount of points of all 32 teams in standard-scoring leagues last year, ending with six interceptions (last in the league), 19 sacks (last in the league), six fumble recoveries (30th in NFL), zero defensive TDs and two special teams scores. At best, they're a No. 2 DST in 2007.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Dre Bly's agent says his client is happy in Denver and doesn't want to be traded. "Obviously, he's very excited to be there and has not expressed anything else," the agent said. There were reports earlier in the week that Bly didn't want to be in Denver and wanted to play in Washington, where the Redskins would have extended his contract, something the Broncos aren't doing.
Analysis: Expect Bly to stay in Denver, which keeps the Redskins DST worth a late-round pick only in the deepest of Fantasy Football leagues that use DSTs.
News: The Washington Post reports that the Redskins are after Broncos CB Dre Bly even though he was traded once this season already. The Broncos won't extend Bly's contract while he Redskins are willing. Sources close to the negotiations are reporting that the Broncos want the Redskins' first-round pick (sixth overall) as part of a package deal for Bly. Ladell Betts was also mentioned in the deal, but coach Joe Gibbs wants to keep him in Washington.
Analysis: Bly would help the Redskins out just as much as he'd help the Broncos, and Denver would have to replace him with a solid cornerback to make their defense stay solid. For now, consider the Broncos a No. 1 Fantasy DST and the Redskins a No. 2.
News: Linebacker London Fletcher-Baker agreed to a five-year, $25 million contract with the Washington Redskins on Friday. Fletcher fills a need at middle linebacker, where Lemar Marshall regressed last year in his second season since Antonio Pierce's departure. Fletcher is small for the position -- 5-foot-10 and 245 pounds -- and will turn 32 in May, but he has been reliably solid over nine NFL seasons with Buffalo and the St. Louis Rams. He's yet to miss a game in his NFL career and has started every game since 2001. The team also re-signed CB Fred Smoot, returning to the team he left two years ago before two tumultuous seasons with Minnesota.
Analysis: Last year, Fletcher-Baker had 146 total tackles (104 solo) with two sacks, a fumble recovery, four interceptions (with one going for a TD) and seven passes defensed. He will definitely shore up a Redskins defense that had to get better at stopping the run, and Smoot will help their secondary. They remain a No. 2 DST for Fantasy use.
News: The Washington Post reports that the Redskins will meet with LB London Fletcher-Baker and could sign him as soon as Friday. The paper also reports that the team may re-sign CB Fred Smoot, who left the team to sign with Minnesota in 2005.
Analysis: Washington's defense could certainly use both players -- Fletcher-Baker is a tackling machine and Smoot would provide depth in the secondary. For now, Washington's DST is still a reserve unit, but expect them to be improved for 2007, making them a sleeper squad in Fantasy play.
News: The Washington Post reports that the Redskins' annual free-agent spending spree will start with them trying to land LB London Fletcher-Baker and CB Nate Clements, both unrestricted free agents who played for the Buffalo Bills in 2006. Redskins defensive coordinator Gregg Williams coached both players when he was the head coach in Buffalo three years ago.
Analysis: Washington's defense could certainly use both players -- Clements is a terrific ballhawk and Fletcher-Baker is a tackling machine. If both players were acquired, the Redskins' defensive stock would go up.
News: Marcus Washington had arthroscopic surgery on his left hip, the second operation this offseason for the Washington Redskins linebacker. Washington had surgery on his left elbow last month. His rehabilitation is expected to take three months, the team said, which could affect his participation when workouts resume in the spring. Linebacker Rocky McIntosh (right knee), safety Vernon Fox (pectoralis muscle) and defensive end Phillip Daniels (both ankles) have had surgeries since the Redskins' season ended in December. Defensive end Renaldo Wynn also has an upcoming operation on his right elbow.
Analysis: The Redskins defense disappointed in 2006, ending with six interceptions (last in the league), 19 sacks (last in the league), six fumble recoveries (30th in NFL), zero defensive TDs and two special teams scores. Look for them to make changes along the defensive line and at strong safety, making them a decent No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007.
News: In standard-scoring Fantasy leagues, the Redskins DST put up the fewest amount of points of all 32 teams. They ended 2006 with six interceptions (last in the league), 19 sacks (last in the league), six fumble recoveries (30th in NFL), zero defensive TDs and two special teams scores.
Analysis: Not a good season for a defense with so much coaching and financial backing put into it. Look for them to make changes along the defensive line and at strong safety, making them a decent No. 2 Fantasy DST in 2007.
News: The Redskins surrendered 355 yards and 34 points to the Giants in a Week 17 loss. They did not force any turnovers and got only one sack from DL Andre Carter.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has been a huge Fantasy bust in 2006. They were pegged as one of the best defenses in the league heading into the season, but injuries among other things, disrupted the chemistry on defense. They will probably be thought of highly heading into 2007 and it is foreseeable that they could be drafted as a No. 1 Fantasy DST next season.
News: Washington placed cornerback Shawn Springs on injured reserve and released cornerback Mike Rumph. Springs broke the scapula in his right shoulder in the first series of Sunday's loss to St. Louis, ending a frustrating season for the 10-year veteran. Springs missed the first five games following abdominal surgery and missed another game with a hamstring injury. Rumph was acquired in the trade that sent receiver Taylor Jacobs to San Francisco in August. He played as a reserve early in the season, but has been inactive for seven of the last eight games.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is at best a desperation choice vs. the Giants on Saturday in Week 17 action. See what changes they make this offseason as they are annually a low-end pick in all Fantasy drafts, usually disappointing owners by midseason.
News: The Redskins DST did nothing against the Rams except for one sack and a fumble recovery. DB Sean Taylor had eight tackles. DB Vernon Fox had 10 tackles. DL Andre Carter had eight tackles and a sack. LB Lemar Marshall had six tackles and recovered a fumble. DB Carlos Rogers had five tackles.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has no Fantasy value but use all regular IDP players as needed in Week 17 against the Giants.
News: The Redskins allowed just 10 points and 270 to a powerful Saints offense on the road in Week 15. They forced one turnover in the game and sacked QB Drew Brees just once, though.
Analysis: They didn't do much in terms of turnovers or sacks, but did outplay an offense that came into the game blazing hot. For that reason, many Fantasy owners correctly decided to reserve the Skins defense. Consider them, though, in leagues of 12-plus teams for Week 16 at St. Louis.
News: When Carlos Rogers dropped a potential interception on the first play of the game Sunday, he was doing his part to keep the 2006 Washington Redskins on pace for a dubious NFL record. Unless they can pry the ball from opposing teams with much greater efficiency over the final three games, the Redskins will set the league record for fewest turnovers forced in a 16-game season. They're also on pace to obliterate franchise records for fewest sacks and interceptions. The defense as a whole has just 10 turnovers and 15 sacks, ranking last in the NFL in both categories. The Redskins have scored only 13 points off turnovers all year - Philadelphia had 14 in the first half alone in the Eagles' 21-19 victory over Washington on Sunday.
Analysis: The Redskins face the Saints in Week 15 and will have the tough task of stopping the league's best offense. They are not a recommended Fantasy DST for Week 15.
News: The Redskins allowed 21 points and 263 yards of offense in Week 14 vs. Philadelphia. They forced just one turnover, a fumble, and did not pick up a sack in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins were able to keep the Eagles in check, but did not do enough in the way of turnovers or sacks to have a big Fantasy day. They'll face a tough Saints offense on the road in Week 15, making them a questionable option.
News: The Redskins defense yielded 369 yards and 24 points to the Falcons in a Week 13 loss. They had just one sack (DL Andre Carter), but forced no turnovers.
Analysis: The Redskins defense has been a huge disappointment this season and are just not a reliable Fantasy option. The Redskins DST is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 14 vs. Philadelphia. Carter is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time.
News: The Redskins DST had two interceptions and one sack against Carolina. DL Phillip Daniels had four tackles and a sack. DB Sean Taylor had five tackles and an interception. DB Vernon Fox had five tackles and an interception. DB Carlos Rogers had six tackles. LB Marcus Washington had seven tackles. DL Andre Carter had four tackles. DB Shawn Springs had four tackles.
Analysis: Consider the Redskins DST a No. 2 option for Week 13 against Atlanta. Use all IDP players as needed.
News: After more than 21 quarters dating back to Oct. 1, the Redskins finally forced a turnover. And then they forced another just 11:09 later. LB Marcus Washington fell on a fumbled snap by Tampa Bay QB Bruce Gradkowski at the Washington 35-yard line. CB Shawn Springs then picked off Gradkowski's pass for Joey Galloway at the 3 with just 36 seconds left in the second quarter.
Analysis: The Redskins are going to have to put together a few more solid performances before they can be a reliable Fantasy DST. The Redskins defense shouldn't be used vs. Carolina in Week 12.
News: The Redskins defense had one interception and one forced fumble at Tampa Bay in Week 11. They also allowed 20 points in the game.
Analysis: The Redskins defense shouldn't be used vs. Carolina in Week 12.
News: The Redskins surrendered 27 points and 365 yards of total offense in Week 10 at Philadelphia. They did not force any turnovers, but did sack Donovan McNabb once.
Analysis: The Redskins were once a great Fantasy unit, but that is no longer true. Consider them a questionable start for Week 11 at Tampa Bay, although the matchup is favorable.
News: The Redskins walked away with a win in Week 9 against the Cowboys despite giving up more yards -- 378-300. They also gave up 19 points. They had two sacks (LB Marcus Washington and DL Cornelius Griffin) but no forced turnovers. DBs Shawn Springs and Sean Taylor led all tacklers with eight.
Analysis: Week 9 marked the first time that the Redskins had all of their defensive starters healthy and on the field at the same time. They still didn't play all that well, but it could take another week or two to get acclimated. Consider the Redskins DST a low-end Fantasy option for Week 10 as they take on the Eagles, a very explosive offense.
News: When Gregg Williams is asked about his starting players on defense, the Redskins' defensive coach often chides the questioner by saying something like, "We don't have starters." It's his way of reminding everyone that he rotates players frequently, depending on the situation. There was no such admonition Thursday, it was pointed out to the coach that he will have all 11 of his projected starters available for the first time this season when the Redskins host the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Injuries to Shawn Springs, Carlos Rogers, Cornelius Griffin, Joe Salave'a and Lemar Marshall have caused the Redskins to shuffle personnel every game. This week, for the first time, every defensive player on the roster was available for practice.
Analysis: "It could make a big difference - everybody on the same page, and the familiarity with each other," said Marshall, who missed one game with a severe ankle sprain. "That's what you want. That's what you go through training camp and start the season thinking you'll have. With everybody there come Sunday, we could be put in a better situation to make plays." The Redskins will get a true test in Week 9 as the Cowboys come to town. The Cowboys have the fifth best offense in the league and it is not recommended you use the Redskins DST.
News: The Redskins defense was on the wrong end of a blowout in Week 8 as Peyton Manning and the Colts put up 36 points and 452 yards. LB Marcus Washington led all tacklers with 11 and DB Sean Taylor followed with eight.
Analysis: The Redskins defense for the second week in a row had an awful showing. Injuries are the big reason behind the Redskins defensive troubles and perhaps during their by week they can rest up and work on improving their defense. The Redskins return to action in Week 9. Washington and Taylor has been racking up the tackles this year but aren't getting sacks or interceptions. They are still decent IDP options.
News: Washington Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers' broken thumb will keep him out of Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. Rogers, a first-round draft pick last year, was hurt trying to tackle Titans running back Travis Henry and needed three screws inserted into the thumb when he had surgery Monday. He broke the same thumb while playing for Auburn and missed one game. The top candidates to start Sunday at Indianapolis are Kenny Wright and Mike Rumph.
Analysis: Never a good thing to lose your best cornerback before playing the Colts in Indianapolis. Consider the Redskins defense a very shaky defense for use in Fantasy for Week 7.
News: With usual starting defensive tackles Cornelius Griffin and Joe Salave'a inactive, rookies Kedric Golston and Anthony Montgomery started against Tennessee. It was the third start for Golston, a sixth-rounder from Georgia. But it was the first start for Montgomery, a fifth-rounder from Minnesota. "They gave me the start, and they expected me to go out there and make plays, and I didn't get the job done," said Montgomery, who had four tackles to Golston's six. "We didn't stop the run like we were supposed to. We jumped off to a big lead, (but) you got to continue to fight and play like it's still 0-0."
Analysis: If Griffin and Salave'a are out for a long period of time, this could be very troublesome for the Redskins defense. They could not stop Titans RB Travis Henry from running for more than 100 yards and were beat by a rookie QB in a abysmal Week 7 performance. With out without the veteran defensive tackles, the Redskins DST is a poor play for Week 7 at Indianapolis, playing against the high-flying Colts.
News: Cornerback Shawn Springs had no setbacks in his first game of the season after missing the first five with abdomen and groin injuries. He said he was rusty in his limited playing time and is probably not yet ready to play every down. "I probably played more than I practiced all week," Springs said.
Analysis: Springs had three solo tackles in his return to the lineup. Springs gives the Redskins DST a big boost heading down the stretch. However, they are a poor play for Week 7 at Indianapolis, playing against the high-flying Colts.
News: The Redskins announced that they have signed FS Troy Vincent to a contract. Vincent will help boost a secondary that ranks 23rd against the pass.
Analysis: The Redskins defense have been struggling as of late and their status among the elite defenses is quickly fading, but Vincent should bring some leadership and another strong DB to help against the pass. This by no means clinches the 'Skins defense as a top-rank unti. They have to play the Colts in Week 7 and it is not recommended you use the Redskins DST, seeing how Peyton Manning will be under center. But if you must because of six teams are on byes, just pray the Redskins defense gets back on track.
News: Titans QB Vince Young's first pro win came at the expense of the Redskins in Week 6. The Redskins had trouble stopping the Titans running game and Young did just enough to pull out the win. The Redskins defense gave up 25 points and 344 total yards. They did sack Young four times but did not force one turnover.
Analysis: The Redskins defense have been struggling as of late and their status among the elite defenses is quickly fading. They have to play the Colts in Week 7 and it is not recommended you use the Redskins DST, seeing how Peyton Manning will be under center for the Colts. But if you must because of six teams are on byes, just pray the Redskins defense gets back on track.
News: The Redskins DST is allowing too many big plays. Only the Green Bay Packers (28) have allowed more passes of 20-plus yards than Washington (21). The New York Giants set up scores with completions of 44, 46, 27 and 21 yards against the Redskins in Sunday's 19-3 victory at the Meadowlands. The Giants' 411 yards were the most by an opponent since coordinator Gregg Williams took over the defense in 2004. The Redskins (2-3) are ranked 28th against the pass, and the teams ranked lower - Arizona, Detroit, Green Bay and Houston - don't fit into anyone's playoff picture. "The first two years, we had a defense flying around making plays and we weren't giving up any big yardage," defensive end Phillip Daniels said. "And now they're getting that, and teams are coming in here looking to throw the ball and get that one big play."
Analysis: Look for the Redskins to get back on track in Week 6 against Tennessee. The should be considered a low-end No. 1 defensive option.
News: The Redskins allowed 411 yards of total offense in Week 5 at the N.Y. Giants. They gave up 19 points in the game and did not force any turnovers or pick up any sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins were expected to be a top-notch Fantasy unit this season, but have been a bit of a letdown to this point. Consider them a good option for Week 6 vs. Tennessee.
News: The Washington DST allowed 30 points and 307 total net yards in Week 4 against the Jaguars. They were able to rack up four sacks and an interception in the overtime win.
Analysis: The Redskins DST will look for better results in Week 5 at N.Y. Giants, but should only be worth consideration as a No. 2 Fantasy unit until they start producing more consistently.
News: Washignton CB Shawn Springs, who strained a groin last Wednesday in his first practice in pads since undergoing abdominal surgery on Aug. 15, is unlikely to be ready to face the Jaguars after missing so much time. The Redskins are 2-3 without Springs during his three seasons in Washington. Also, DT Joe Salave'a, who was inactive in Houston for just the fourth time in his three Redskins seasons with a strained calf he suffered the previous week at Dallas, is questionable for Jacksonville. The Redskins are 4-0 without Salave'a.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has missed Springs but still is a decent matchup against Jacksonville in Week 4 in what should be a low-scoring game. Keep Springs reserved in all IDP leagues.
News: The Redskins held the Houston Texans to just 261 total yards in Week 3. They forced three fumbles, one interception and had one sack. DB Carlos Rogers and LB Warrick Holdman led the Redskins with eight tackles a piece. Kenny Wright, filling in for Shawn Srpings, hauled down the Redskins only interception.
Analysis: The Redskins played well against a Texans passing offense that proved they could move the ball down the field. It also helped the defense that the offense controlled the ball for most of the game. Not to mention that the Redskins were without Springs. They will need another strong performance in Week 4 vs. Jacksonville. Look at all yout DST options before settling on the Skins in Week 4.
9/20/2006
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Shawn Springs suffers setback
News: Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs had a setback in his attempt to return from abdominal surgery, leaving an even bigger void in a secondary that allowed several big plays in both losses this season. Springs had surgery Aug. 15 for a torn abdominal muscle and was hoping to return this week, but he strained the groin in his right leg during individual drills Wednesday. "He felt a little twinge of pain in his groin, so we took him of the field," trainer Bubba Tyer said. Also, defensive tackle Joe Salave'a missed practice with a strained calf and is listed as questionable.
Analysis: Washington will play at Houston in Week 3, and while that seems like a great matchup for the Redskins DST, keep in mind that Houston has proven they can throw the ball around (running the ball is another story). Consider all options before finalizing your lineup with the Redskins DST in it; the game could be a high-scoring affair.
9/19/2006
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Redskins to get Springs back
News: Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs, sidelined since having abdominal surgery on Aug. 15, plans to be on the field when the Redskins return to practice this week. "Each week I get a little closer to where I want to be," Springs said. "The biggest thing is I can do all the movements. I can't do them as quick as I want."
Analysis: Washington will play at Houston in Week 3, and while that seems like a great matchup for the Redskins DST, keep in mind that Houston has proven they can throw the ball around (running the ball is another story). Consider all options before finalizing your lineup with the Redskins DST in it; the game could be a high-scoring affair.
9/18/2006
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'Skins touched for 27 points
News: The Washington defense allowed 27 points and 367 total net yards in Week 2 at Dallas. On a positive note, they had a sack, fumble recovery and a 100-yard kickoff return for touchdown by RB/KR Rock Cartwright.
Analysis: LB Lemar Marshall had six solo tackles, a sack and a pass defensed as the linebacker had another solid game after a strong performance in the opener. The Redskins DST is a recommended Fantasy option in Week 3 at Houston.
9/12/2006
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Redskins DST mediocre in Week 1
News: The Washington Redskins defense was rather mediocre in Week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings, allowing 19 points and 309 total net yards. They also recorded one sack and no intereceptions.
Analysis: The Redskins did a fair job allowing just two touchdowns against the Vikings. They will have their hands full with RB Julius Jones, WR Terrell Owens and the Dallas offense in Week 2 on the road.
9/11/2006
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DB Prioleau suffers leg injury
News: DB Pierson Prioleau left Week 1 against Minnesota in the first quarter after being injured on the opening kickoff. He was trying to avoid contact with a Vikings player and suffered an apparent right leg injury.
Analysis: Prioleau was helped off the field after having the leg immobilized, so it is unlikely he will return. That is a shame for the veteran defensive back, as not even one second ticked off of the clock before he suffered the injury. His loss takes away a bit of the depth for the Washington DST, but they remain a solid No. 1 unit in all leagues.
9/11/2006
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DB Springs, DL Wynn are inactive
News: DL Renaldo Wynn (ankle) is inactive for Week 1 against the Vikings. The Redskins also announced QB Jason Campbell, SS Reed Doughty, OT Jim Molinaro, DL Anthony Montgomery and DB Shawn Springs (abdominal) are out for the first game.
Analysis: Despite the fact starters Springs and Wynn are sidelined, the Redskins DST remains a solid play for Week 1. Preseason acquisition DB Mike Rumph started in place of Springs.
9/6/2006
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CB Shawn Springs doubtful
News: Redskins CB Shawn Springs (abdomen) is doubtful for Week 1 vs. Minnesota, creating a hole in the team's secondary. Springs is likely to be replaced by Kenny Wright. Up front, the Redskins got back Cornelius Griffin and Phillip Daniels, so they should be stout against the run.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is a fair unit to use in Week 1 vs. Minnesota, meaning that if you cannot find a better one out there to use, go ahead and use them. At least they'll be at home against an aged QB in Brad Johnson (an ex-Skin).
9/5/2006
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Skins CB's status up in air
News: Running back Clinton Portis and cornerback Shawn Springs didn't practice Tuesday, and their availability for Monday night's regular-season opener against Minnesota was uncertain.
Analysis: Springs should not be used in any Fantasy IDP leagues in Week 1. If you own him and have reserves, bench him. The Redskins DST is still a solid unit under head coach Joe Gibbs, so consider them among the top 10 in your leagues.
8/28/2006
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Redskins make defensive cuts
News: Washington released safeties Antuan Edwards and Aric Williams, defensive linemen Karon Riley and Chris Mineo and linebacker Kevin Simon.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is still a solid unit under head coach Joe Gibbs, so consider them among the top 10 in your leagues.
8/21/2006
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LBs Holdman, McIntosh in battle
News: Warrick Holdman and Rocky McIntosh are battling for the starting WLB spot in Washington. Holdman and McIntosh have both been solid and as usual, the tie goes to the veteran.
Analysis: Washington's DST is a solid unit under head coach Joe Gibbs, so consider them among the top 10 in your leagues.
8/20/2006
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DL Griffin hurt, CB Springs out
News: DL Cornelius Griffin left Saturday's preseason game against the Jets in the first quarter due to a sprained right knee. Griffin was able to jog off the field, and coach Joe Gibbs said it was "just a bump -- nothing serious." Meanwhile, CB Shawn Springs missed the game and is expected to be sidelined at least a month.
Analysis: The loss of Springs is significant for the Fantasy appeal of the Washington DST overall, but Griffin is not a player to concern yourself with. Despite Springs being out at least a month, the Redskins DST remains a top-12 unit in most formats.
8/15/2006
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'Skins with CB Springs for a while
News: According to published reports, CB Shawn Springs might now miss four to six weeks after abdominal surgery. He had a procedure to repair a minor abdominal muscle tear and was originally expected to miss three to four weeks.
Analysis: The Redskins hope that Springs will be able to return for the regular season opener on September 11 against Minnesota. The chances are the Redskins will have to do without the corner man for at least the first week of action. With or without him in there, the Redskins are a top-12 DST in most Fantasy league.
8/15/2006
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Skins lose Springs for preseason
News: Washington Redskins starting cornerback Shawn Springs underwent surgery to repair a minor abdominal muscle tear on Tuesday and will be sidelined three to four weeks. The procedure was performed by Dr. William Meyers at Durham Regional Hospital.
Analysis: The Redskins hope that Springs will be able to return for the regular season opener on September 11 against Minnesota. The Redskins are a top-12 DST in most Fantasy leagues with or without Rumph on the roster.
8/14/2006
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Redskins add CB Rumph for depth
News: The Washington Redskins traded WR Taylor Jacobs to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night for CB Mike Rumph.
Analysis: Rumph was having some difficulty fitting into new coach Mike Nolan's system, so the former first-rounder was shipped out. This addition gives the Redskins some depth in the secondary. They are a top-12 DST in most Fantasy leagues with or without Rumph on the roster.
8/8/2006
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Skins safety fined, not suspended
News: Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor has been fined but will not be suspended for his no-contest pleas in an assault case in Florida. The NFL announced Monday that Taylor has been fined four 2005 game checks - which amounts to $71,764 based on a salary of $305,000 - for pleading no contest in June to misdemeanor counts of simple battery and simple assault arising from a dispute over all-terrain vehicles in Miami in 2005.
Analysis: Taylor was accused of pointing a gun during the dispute over vehicles he claimed were stolen and faced three charges of aggravated assault and a misdemeanor charge - charges which could have landed him decades in prison - before settling the case out of court. Taylor is a big part of what makes the Redskins a top-12 DST, worth taking with a late-round pick.
7/31/2006
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Sean Taylor to be suspended?
News: Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs said the team is waiting to hear from the NFL on a possible punishment for safety Sean Taylor, who pleaded no contest to two misdemeanors in an assault case. Taylor reached a deal with Florida prosecutors last month after they agreed to drop felony charges against him. In better news, the team signed second-round pick LB Rocky McIntosh to a multi-year contract.
Analysis: Taylor's presence would be missed if he were shut out of playing for several weeks. If the suspension is more than three games, it could impact the value of Washington's DST, albeit slightly. They are still a top-12 DST, worth taking with a late-round pick.
6/1/2006
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Sean Taylor accepts plea bargain
News: The Washington Post reports Sean Taylor will accept a plea deal and avoid time in prison. He will plead no contest contest to one misdemeanor battery charge and one misdemeanor assault charge.
Analysis: While Taylor can expect some sort of fine from the NFL, he will be able to report to Washington's training camp on time. His presence makes the Redskins defense that much more valuable in drafts.
5/1/2006
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Washington drafts LB Rocky McIntosh
News: The Washington Redskins selected Miami (FL) LB Roger "Rocky" McIntosh with the No. 35 overall (Round 2) selection in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Analysis: The Redskins already added DE Andre Carter and DB Adam Archuleta to a defense that should be solid next season. Look for this unit to be worth a late-round selection in drafts.
4/7/2006
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Washington lands LB Chris Clemons
News: According to reports, the Washington Redskins have re-signed LB Chris Clemons to a one-year contract.
Analysis: Clemons should have a chance to replace LB LaVar Arrington at the team's weakside linebacker position.
3/13/2006
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Washington lands Andre Carter
News: NFL.com reports the Washington Redskins and Andre Carter have agreed on a six-year, $30 million contract. The team also added signed Adam Archuleta to a similar contract.
Analysis: Carter recorded 4.5 sacks in San Francisco last season, but injuries have been an issue. Still, he and Archuleta make the Redskins DST more attractive in drafts.
3/13/2006
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Redskins land Adam Archuleta
News: According to reports, the Washington Redskins have signed Adam Archuleta to an undisclosed deal.
Analysis: Archuleta, who recorded 3.5 sacks, one interception, one TD, 70 tackles (53 solo) and two passes defensed in 14 games last season in St. Louis, makes the Redskins DST more attractive in drafts.
3/6/2006
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Arrington pays Skins to leave
News: LaVar Arrington agreed to a buyout that relinquished more than $4 million rather than restructure his contract in a way that would allow him to remain in Washington. He was the No. 2 overall draft pick in 2000 and played in three straight Pro Bowls from 2001-03. He signed an eight-year $68 million contract extension near the end of the 2003 season, moved his family to the area and vowed to remain with the Redskins throughout his career.
Analysis: Arrington fell out of favor with the Redskins this season, so this move isn't a surprise. He recorded 47 tackles and no sacks in 13 games in '05. Look for the veteran to have several suitors in the offseason.
1/17/2006
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Redskins DST records 35 sacks
News: The Redskins DST recorded 16 interceptions, 35 sacks, 12 fumble recoveries, four TDs and allowed 293 points (18.3 PPG) this season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was solid down the stretch but won't be worth more than a late-round selection in most 2006 drafts.
1/10/2006
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Redskins DST faces Seahawks
News: The Washington Redskins head to Qwest Field to face the Seattle Seahawks in Saturday's Divisional Round. The Redskins defense allowed 354 total yards and 17 points against the Seahawks back on Oct. 2.
Analysis: The Redskins DST was solid in the second half of the regular season and the reason for last weekend's win over Tampa Bay. It should be considered a nice option in postseason leagues.
News: The Washington Redskins head to Tampa to face the Buccaneers in Wild Card weekend. The 'Skins allowed 36 points and 340 total yards earlier this season against the Bucs.
Analysis: This contest won't be a barnburner like the 36-35 scorcher between these two teams back on Nov. 13, so the Redskins DST remains a decent choice in postseason leagues.
12/24/2005
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Redskins DST allow 20
News: The Redskins DST allowed 20 points while registering one INT and one sack in Week 16 vs. the Giants.
Analysis: The Redskins are a decent play in Week 17 at Philadelphia.
12/21/2005
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LaVar Arrington to return
News: LB LaVar Arrington, who has been inactive the last two games with a bruised thigh, is expected to return for Week 16. CB Carlos Rogers didn't just bruise his left biceps against Arizona, he tore the muscle and is doubtful to return this week.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is not a recommended option in most leagues against the N.Y. Giants.
12/19/2005
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Redskins DST great vs. Dallas
News: The Redskins DST only allowed seven points to Dallas in Week 15 while registering three interceptions and seven sacks.
Analysis: The Redskins DST are a decent option in Week 16 vs. the Giants in larger leagues, or if your primary DST has an unfavorable matchup.
12/15/2005
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Shawn Springs probable
News: CB Shawn Springs (groin), LB LaVar Arrington (thigh), S Matt Bowen (knee) and CB Walt Harris (calf) are probable for Week 15 vs. Dallas.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is not a recommended option in leagues with 12 or fewer teams.
12/11/2005
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Redskins DST limits Cards
News: The Redskins DST allowed 13 points while registering one interception and two sacks in Week 14 at Arizona.
Analysis: They also forced three fumbles and are a decent play in Week 15 vs. Dallas in deeper leagues.
12/9/2005
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LB Arrington unlikely to play
News: Redskins linebacker LaVar Arrington missed practice again Friday because of a bruised right thigh and most likely will not play against Arizona. Arrington hurt his leg last week against St. Louis. He is listed as questionable on the injury report for Sunday's road game. "LaVar probably won't play," coach Joe Gibbs said. "That's my guess right now."
Analysis: The Redskins DST will have its hands full with the Cardinals passing game as it is, so consider other units before settling on this one.
12/8/2005
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LaVar Arrington questionable
News: LB LaVar Arrington (thigh) is listed as questionable for Week 14 at Arizona. DT Cedric Killings (groin) and DT Joe Salave'a (foot) are also questionable. S Ryan Clark (ankle) and DT Cornelius Griffin (hip) are probable.
Analysis: The Redskins DST doesn't force enough turnovers to warrant serious consideration in most leagues.
12/4/2005
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Redskins DST stymies the Rams
News: The Washington DST allowed only nine points an 191 total net yards in Week 13 at St. Louis. They also rolled up three picks, three sacks and a fumble recovery. In the game, DL Joe Salave'a (foot) and DL Cedric Killings (groin) were inactive while LT Corey Griffin (hip) was able to play and record a solo tackle.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is a solid play in Week 14 at Arizona despite the recent heroics of QB Kurt Warner for the Cardinals.
12/1/2005
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Joe Salave'a doubtful
News: DT Joe Salave'a (foot) is listed as doubtful for Week 13 at St. Louis. DT Cornelius Griffin (hip) and S Sean Taylor (ankle) are both probable.
Analysis: The Redskins DST doesn't force enough turnovers to warrant serious consideration in most leagues.
11/27/2005
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Redskins DST allows 23 points
News: The Redskins DST allowed 23 points and recorded three sacks and three interceptions in Sunday's 23-17 loss to the San Diego Chargers.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a decent option in leagues wirth 12-plus teams for Week 13 at St. Louis.
11/20/2005
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Redskins DST scores TD
News: Th Redskins DST allowed 13 points and recorded one touchdown (LB Lemar Marshall), one sack and one interception in Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Oakland Raiders.
Analysis: Despite this nice performance, the Redskins DST is still not a recommended option for Week 12 against the San Diego Chargers.
11/18/2005
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Sean Taylor upgraded
News: The Post reports S Sean Taylor (ankle) has been upgraded to probable for Week 11.He had the cast removed from his foot Wednesday and returned to practice Thursday. "He practiced very well [Thursday]," defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said. "He's anxious to get back out there and play. He doesn't like missing practices, but this was something we had to do to try to get him over the hill."
Analysis: The Redskins don't force enough takeaways to warrant serious consideration in most Fantasy Football leagues, even with Taylor back in the mix.
11/17/2005
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Sean Taylor questionable
News: Sean Taylor (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 11 against the Oakland Raiders. DT Cornelius Griffin (hip) is also questionable, while DE Philip Daniels (elbow), DT Joe Salave'a (foot) and S Omar Stoutmire (hamstring) are all probable.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a serviceable option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
11/13/2005
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Redskins DST drummed by Bucs
News: The Redskins DST allowed 36 points and 340 total net yards in Week 10 at Tampa Bay, although they did get a 94-yard kickoff return from RB/KR Ladell Betts.
Analysis: Despite the awful performance, the Redskins defense is a solid play for Week 11 against the Raiders.
11/10/2005
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Sean Taylor probable
News: Sean Taylor (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 10 at Tampa Bay. DE Phillip Daniels (ankle) and DT Joe Salave'a (foot) are also probable.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a serviceable option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
11/7/2005
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Redskins remain defensive minded
News: Washington's defense kept the Eagles in check in Sunday night's win, recording two sacks and an INT while holding Philly to 10 points.
Analysis: The Redskins travel to Tampa for Week 10 to take on Chris Simms and the Bucs. Considering Simms is still learning his way somewhat, the Redskins are a must start.
11/3/2005
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'Skins DL situation a mess
News: If Joe Salave'a (heel) and Cornelius Griffin (hip) both can't play -- they are questionable -- Ryan Boschetti and Cedric Killings would start with undrafted rookie Aki Jones the lone backup. DEs Renaldo Wynn and Demetric Evans would pinch-hit inside, but Evans is first in line to start if DE Phillip Daniels can't. If Griffin, Salave'a and Daniels are all out, Evans would make his first start of the year with Nic Clemons, who has played in one career game, the lone backup outside other than pass-rushing linebackers LaVar Arrington and Chris Clemons.
Analysis: The Redskins are not an advisable play in Week 9 vs. the Eagles. Bench them after their stinker vs. the Giants and the fact the Eagles promise to beat them up pretty good, too, up front.
10/31/2005
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DL Cornelius Griffin injures hip
News: The Washington Post reports that Griffin hurt his hip in the first quarter of Sunday's blowout loss at the Giants. Joe Salave'a, the other starting DT, also left the game because of a lingering foot injury and starting RDE Phillip Daniels left with an ankle injury. "That's the number one thing I'm concerned about right now," Coach Joe Gibbs said. "We've got a number of injuries there that we're concerned about and we'll just have to see. A number of key guys, and we'll just have to see."
Analysis: Griffin missed most of practice dealing with the injury and he spent most of the day on the bench, which gave the Giants' running game a huge boost. If Griffin can't return to play in Week 9 against Philadelphia, which means RB Brian Westbrook could have a field day.
10/30/2005
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Giants hammer Redskins DST
News: The Redskins DST allowed 36 points and recorded sack and one interception in Sunday's 36-0 loss to the N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a not a recommended starter for Week 9 vs. the Philadelphia Eagles.
10/23/2005
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Redskins D stymies Niners
News: Washington's defense continued to shine, sacking QB Alex Smith three times, picking him off once and forcing a fumble vs. San Francisco in Week 7. They held the 49ers to 17 points.
Analysis: Washington's defense will have its hands full with the Giants next week, but they still merit a start in Week 8.
10/16/2005
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Redskins DST allows 28 points
News: The Redskins DST allowed 28 points and recorded just one sack in Sunday's 28-21 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is still a recommended starter in Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers.
10/9/2005
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Redskins DST allows 21 points
News: The Washington defense allowed 21 points and 257 total net yards in Week 5 at Denver. They were shutout, recording zero interceptions, sacks or fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is not a solid play against RB Priest Holmes and the Chiefs at Arrowhead in Week 6, despite their solid performance to date.
10/2/2005
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Skins D halts Seahawks
News: Washington's DST sacked Matt Hasselbeck once, forced a fumble and kept Seattle to 17 points in Week 4.
Analysis: Despite their awesome defense, the Redskins will have their hands full with Denver's running backs in Week 5 at Denver.
9/20/2005
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Redskins DST allows 13 points
News: The Redskins defense allowed only 13 points and 351 total net yards in Monday's game at Dallas.
Analysis: The Redskins defense did not record a sack, fumble or interception, but they have allowed only 20 points in two games so far. Despite the ineptitude of the offense, the defense is a quality Fantasy unit in most formats. They get a bye in Week 3 before hosting the Seahawks.
News: Washington's defense held the Bears to seven points, sacking QB Kyle Orton twice, picking him off once, and holding him to 141 passing yards. Moreover, they held Chicago's running game to 41 yards.
Analysis: Washington's DST will have their hands full with the Cowboys in Week 2.
8/26/2005
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Arrington returns to action
News: LaVar Arrington (knee) was active for Friday's preseason contest vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Arrington's return improves the value of the Redskins DST in drafts.
8/24/2005
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LaVar Arrington cleared
News: The Washington Post reports LaVar Arrington (knee) has been cleared by doctors and trainers to play in Friday's preseason game vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Look for the Redskins DST to be one of the first 12 units selected in drafts.
8/19/2005
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Carlos Rogers makes debut
News: Carlos Rogers (ankle) make his pro preseason debut in Friday's contest vs. Cincinnati. He made two tackles and had one interception.
Analysis: The Redskins DST will be a nice option in most drafts.
8/16/2005
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Rogers, Arrington back at Skins camp
News: Redskins.com reports CB Carlos Rogers returned to practice Aug. 15 after being sidelined with an ankle sprain in June. He thinks he'll be ready to play in the preseason game against Cincinnati. "I am going to play," Rogers said. "I really have no limitations, I just need to get my wind back and come out of my breaks a little bit better." LB LaVar Arrington also returned to practice, coming off of the PUP list.
Analysis: Arrington will help Washington's DST, but Rogers may not make an impact until late in the year.
8/10/2005
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Sean Taylor to start
News: The Washington Times reports Sean Taylor is slated to start at free safety this season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST will be a nice option in most drafts.
8/4/2005
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Rogers back in two weeks?
News: The Washington Post reports Carlos Rogers (ankle) hopes to return to practice in two weeks.
Analysis: Rogers might still have a chance to start if he can return sooner than later.
8/4/2005
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Taylor back on the field
News: The Washington Post reports that Sean Taylor is back on the field with the first-team defense at camp.
Analysis: Look for the Redskins DST to be one of the top-12 units in the league this season.
8/2/2005
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Skins' Arrington held out of camp
News: Redskins.com reports that LaVar Arrington is being held out of training camp as he continues to recover from his 2004 knee injury.
Analysis: Arrington should be fine for the season, making the Redskins a nice No. 2 Fantasy DST team.
7/30/2005
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Stoutmire joins Redskins
News: The Washington Redskins signed safety Omar Stoutmire on Friday. Stoutmire was waived by the New York Giants in February after starting 32 games over five seasons with them. The team also cut Michael Barrow and Andre Lott.
Analysis: The 5-foot-11, 205-pound safety went on injured reserve with a torn knee ligament after last season's opening game. His best season in New York was 2003, when he finished third on the Giants in tackles with a career-high 109. He'll likely add depth to their defensive backfield, making him unworthy of a selection in an average IDP league.
7/22/2005
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Taylor to attend camp
News: The Washington Post reports Sean Taylor will report to training camp, according to agent Drew Rosenhaus. Taylor has not talked to the media in more than six months, and while the Redskins have expected him to attend camp, there had been no public assurances from him. "Oh, yes, without a doubt," said Rosenhaus, when asked in a phone interview this week.
Analysis: Taylor has had some off-the-field problems, but his expected presence in camp is a positive. The Redskins DST remains a nice late-round option in drafts.
7/21/2005
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Rogers to miss some time
News: According to reports, Carlos Rogers (ankle) is about to shed his crutches and come out of his walking boot. He will now wear a hard-bottom shoe for two weeks. Barring setbacks, Rogers will miss just the start of training camp.
Analysis: Rogers is now expected to open the regular season as the Redskins' nickel cornerback. Shawn Springs and Walt Harris will start.
7/13/2005
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Taylor allowed to attend
News: A judge has allowed Sean Taylor to travel to Redskins training camp, and state prosecutors did not offer a plea deal Tuesday at a court hearing to discuss charges the player pointed a gun during a dispute over an all-terrain vehicle.
Analysis: Taylor was allegedly among a group of people who got into a June 1 armed confrontation over an ATV that Taylor and his associates believed had been stolen. He has filed a written plea of not guilty and could face a maximum of 16 years if convicted on both charges.
7/12/2005
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Rogers' status uncertain
News: The Washington Post reports Carlos Rogers (foot) is not expected to be ready for the start of training camp. He suffered a high ankle sprain and bone bruise to his foot while working out during the offseason.
Analysis: Rogers is currently wearing a walking boot to protect the foot. No timetable has been set for his return.
7/1/2005
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CB Rogers' foot not broken
News: Redskins.com reported that rookie Carlos Rogers has a grade-one ankle sprain and a bone bruise, not a stress fracture in his foot.
Analysis: Regardless, Rogers will miss some time. His status for the season is unknown, but it won't significantly impact the Redskins D/ST value.
6/30/2005
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CB Rogers has injured foot
News: The NFL Network reports Carlos Rogers suffered stress fracture in his foot and is not expected to be ready for training camp.
Analysis: Rogers has been in a walking boot the past two weeks. He will see specialists this week and his long-term outlook is uncertain.
6/24/2005
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Safety Taylor could be gone
News: Sean Taylor, if convicted of pointing a gun at someone at a trial set this year, could receive a minimum of three years in prison. The trial begins on Sept. 12, the day after Washington's first game.
Analysis: Taylor is expected to be a key contributor for the Redskins not just next year but for a few years. His backup is Andre Lott, and while he is good he's doesn't bring to the table what Taylor brings. Taylor will hurt the value of the Redskins D/ST if he does not play.
6/6/2005
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S Taylor in trouble
News: The Washington Times reports Sean Taylor could face trouble with the law due to a recent off-field incident.
Analysis: It's also possible that Taylor could be suspended by either the Redskins or the NFL, so keep tabs on his status.
4/23/2005
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Skins land CB Rogers
News: The Washington Redskins selected Carlos Rogers with the No. 9 overall selection in the 2005 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Rogers will add depth to a defensive backfield that lost CB Fred Smoot (Vikings), so expect the Redskins DST to remain a solid option.
3/23/2005
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Bowen continues to rehab
News: The Redskins official website reports SS Matt Bowen continues to rehab his injured right knee and is on target to be fully healthy by training camp. "We do have a lot of time—there's no sense rushing it," Bowen said. "It's only March and training camp starts in July."
Analysis: Bowen suffered a torn ACL in Week 5 and underwent season-ending knee surgery. He recorded 23 total tackles in five contests before the ailment.
3/22/2005
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KR Morton set to return
News: The Redskins official website reports Chad Morton (knee) showed up at the team's first offseason voluntary workout session and declared himself ready to play. "I've been rehabbing in Miami," Morton said. "I'm feeling great, and I'm glad to be back with the rest of my teammates."
Analysis: Morton tore his ACL vs. the Green Bay Packers and finished the season on injured reserve.
3/4/2005
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'Skins make offer to Smoot
News: The Washington Times reports the Redskins do not intend to increase their $10 million bonus offer to Fred Smoot. "Smoot's deal is one that we're working on," coach Joe Gibbs said.
Analysis: Smoot is an unrestricted free agent.
12/22/2004
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CB Springs to return
News: The Washington Post reports Shawn Springs (concussion, sternum, shoulder) should be able to play the final two games of the regular season.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a nice option for Week 16 at Dallas.
12/20/2004
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Redskins defense injury update
News: The Washington Times reports CB Shawn Springs (concussion, shoulder) has been cleared to return to practice. He missed last week's game at San Francisco. He is probable for Week 16 at Dallas.
Analysis: S Sean Taylor (lip) is probable for Week 16 at Dallas after suffering a lacerated lip against the 49ers. The Redskins are a solid starting defensive unit against Vinny Testaverde and the Cowboys.
12/20/2004
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Arrington's knee OK
News: The Washington Times reports LaVar Arrington reported a little swelling in his surgically repaired right knee after Week 15. "I'll take a couple days, take it light, and get back to work" Arrington said.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a nice optin for Week 16.
News: LB LaVar Arrington (knee) returned to the field in Week 15 at San Francisco. He had one solo tackle and assisted on one other.
Analysis: The Redskins defense allowed 254 total net yards and 16 points. LB Antonio Pierce also had a 78-yard interception return for a touchdown. That pick was one of four by the Washington defense. They face the Cowboys in Week 16 at Dallas.
12/17/2004
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LB LaVar Arrington to return
News: The Washington Post reports Arrington (knee) will return to action in Week 15.
Analysis: In other news, CB Walt Harris will replace CB Shawn Springs (concussion, shoulder, sternum) at San Francisco.
12/14/2004
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Doering on I-R
News: The Redskins official website reports SS Jason Doering (ankle) has been placed on injured reserve and is out for the season.
Analysis: In other news, CB Walt Harris will replace injured CB Shawn Springs (concussion, shoulder, sternum) in Week 15.
12/11/2004
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LB Lavar Arrington OUT
News: The Washington Post reports Arrington is out for Week 14.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is not a recommended option vs. Philadelphia.
12/10/2004
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LB Arrington practices
News: Lavar Arrington (knee) practiced on Friday but remains questionable for Week 14.
Analysis: It would be a surprise to see the former Penn State star active.
12/9/2004
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LB Arrington practices
News: The Washington Times reports Lavar Arrington (knee) practiced on Thursday.
Analysis: He is listed as questionable for Week 14.
12/8/2004
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DE Phillip Daniels on I-R
News: The Washington Post reports Daniels (wrist) has been placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: He is out for the rest of the season.
12/6/2004
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Daniels done for year
News: According to the Washington Post, Redskins defensive end Phillip Daniels dislocated a bone in his left wrist in the second quarter of Week 13 and is expected to miss the rest of the year.
Analysis: Despite having a solid defense, the Redskins D/ST is not a great starting option in Week 14 against the Eagles.
12/5/2004
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Redskins defense sharp in Week 13
News: The Washington defense allowed only seven points, which was via a kickoff return, and 145 total net yards in Week 13 against the Giants.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is still not a recommended Fantasy defense for Week 14 against the high-flying Eagles offense.
12/1/2004
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Arrington has bone bruise
News: The Washington Post reports an MRI revealed that LB Lavar Arrington still has a bone bruised in his knee.
Analysis: Arrington remains week to week and is out for the Giants game.
11/30/2004
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Arrington wants to return
News: The Washington Post reports LB Lavar Arrington (knee) still hasn't given up hope of returning this season. The team lists him as week to week.
Analysis: In other news, DE Phillip Daniels (groin) expects to practice and might return in Week 13.
11/28/2004
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'Skins can't stop Bus
News: Jerome Bettis rushed for 11 yards in Week 12 against Washington. The Redskins did manage to sack Ben Roethlisberger four times but didn't cause any interceptions or fumbles.
Analysis: The Redskins have a great defense but their lack of offense really puts them on the field for a long time. They host the New York Giants in Week 13.
11/24/2004
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Barrow gone for the season
News: The Washington Post reports Micheal Barrow (knee) has been placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Barrow will miss the rest of the season.
11/23/2004
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LB Arrington won't return
News: The Washington Post reports Lavar Arrington (knee) is not expected to play in Week 12.
Analysis: In other news, there is no timetable for the return of DE Philip Daniels (groin).
11/22/2004
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Washington does little vs. Eagles
News: The Redskins DST unit allowed 28 points to Philadelphia Sunday.
Analysis: Washington's defense will face another tough Pennsylvania offense in Pittsburgh in Week 12.
11/19/2004
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Arrington remains out
News: The Washington Post reports LB Lavar Arrington (knee) and DE Phillip Daniels (groin) are out for Week 11.
Analysis: In other news, LB Mike Barrow (knee) is questionable, and CB Fred Smoot (shoulder) and DT Cornelius Griffin (hip) are probable.
11/16/2004
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DT Griffin has MRI
News: The Washington Post reports DT Cornelius Griffin's MRI exam revealed a first-degree strain of the big muscle of his buttocks. "For the first time we got a good report when we took this MRI of his hip flexor," Coach Joe Gibbs said yesterday. "We kind of were really worried about it last night."
Analysis: In other news, the Redskins received bad news on LB Khary Campbell, who underwent season-ending surgery after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. "It makes me feel sad," he said, "that we're going through a tough time and I just feel helpless."
11/14/2004
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CB Smoot plays, LB Barrow out
News: CB Fred Smoot (shoulder) was able to play in Week 10 against Cincinnati. He finished with six solo tackles.
Analysis: LB Micheal Barrow (knee) was unable to make his season debut and might be shut down for the season. The Redskins are not a recommended Fantasy defense in Week 11 at Philadelphia.
11/12/2004
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SS Clark listed as probable
News: The Washington Post reports SS Ryan Clark (shoulder) missed Thursday's practice as a precaution. He is probable for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, CB Walt Harris returned to practice after being granted an off day Wednesday.
11/11/2004
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DE Phillip Daniels out
News: The Washington Post reports Daniels (groin) is listed as out for Week 10. LB LaVar Arrington also is out at least two more weeks with a knee injury. LB Mike Barrow (knee) is listed as questionable.
Analysis: In other news, CB Fred Smoot (shoulder), DE Renaldo Wynn (ankle), and S Ryan Clark (shoulder) are listed as probable.
11/10/2004
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Redskins defense injury update
News: The Washington Times reports DB Fred Smoot was able to practice on Wednesday despite a shoulder injury. He is listed as probable for Week 10 against Cincinnati.
Analysis: In other news, LB Mike Barrow (knee) was also able to practice on Wednesday, but he remains questionable. The Redskins defense is a decent Fantasy option against the Bengals in Week 10.
11/9/2004
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Daniels out several weeks
News: The Washington Post reports DE Philip Daniels (groin) is out several weeks. DL Renaldo Wynn is wearing a boot because of an ankle sprain but should be out of it this week.
Analysis: In other news, LB LaVar Arrington (knee) will be out at least a few more weeks. LB Mike Barrow (knee) will return to practice in a limited role this week.
11/4/2004
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LB Arrington out four games
News: According to the Washington Post, Lavar Arrington is scheduled to take a three-day trip to visit James Andrews to have his knee further examined and treated. "Our biggest thing right now with him is just to make sure he rests," coach Joe Gibbs said. Arrington is expected to miss at least four games.
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 9.
11/3/2004
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Morton, Lott on I-R
News: The Redskins official website reports DB Andre Lott (chest) has been placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: In other news, KR Chad Morton (knee) is also on injured reserve.
11/1/2004
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Arrington out another month?
News: According to coach Joe Gibbs, linebacker LaVar Arrington could be out another month due to his knee injury. "We have to be real careful with it and we'll just take it day to day," Gibbs said. In other news, Chad Morton tore a ligament in his knee in Week 8 against Green Bay and will be lost for the year. Morton will be placed on the injured reserve list. James Thrash and Ladell Betts will handle the return duties for the rest of the season.
Analysis: Arrington has a bone bruise on his knee. The Redskins are worth using as a Fantasy D/ST in all leagues. They travel to Detroit in Week 9.
News: Despite intercepting Brett Favre three times, the Redskins fell to the Packers 28-14 in Week 8.
Analysis: The Redskins are worth using in larger Fantasy leagues. They travel to Detroit in Week 9.
10/29/2004
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'Skins punish Sean Taylor
News: The Washington Post reports the Redskins will punish DB Taylor for an off-field incident by inactivating him for Week 8. LB Lavar Arrington (knee) is not expected to play against Green Bay.
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) has been downgraded to doubtful. CB Fred Smoot (shoulder) and KR Chad Morton (knee) are probable.
10/28/2004
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'Skins downgrade Arrington
News: The Washington Post reports Lavar Arrington (knee) has been downgraded to doubtful for Week 8.
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) practiced on Wednesday and is questionable. CB Fred Smoot (shoulder) is probable.
10/27/2004
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LB Arrington won't practice
News: The Washington Post reports Lavar Arrington (knee) won't practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Arrington remains questionable for Week 8.
10/26/2004
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LB Arrington agravates knee
News: The Washington Times reports Lavar Arrington aggravated his right knee on Monday. However, he is apparently no less likely to play in Week 8.
Analysis: Arrington is listed as questionable against Green Bay.
10/25/2004
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Redskins defense injury update
News: LB LaVar Arrington aggravated his knee during practice on Monday and went to see a doctor. The setback might prevent him from making his anticipated return to the lineup in Week 8 against the Packers.
Analysis: In other news, LB Michael Barrow (knee) was unable to practice on Monday and the team is considering shutting the veteran down for the season to open up a much-needed roster spot. The Redskins defense is still a decent option in most Fantasy leagues for Week 8 against Brett Favre and the Packers.
10/18/2004
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CB Smoot injured twice
News: The Washington Post reports that CB Fred Smoot injured both shoulders during separate plays against the Bears Sunday, but he plans on playing after the bye week in Week 7.
Analysis: LB Michael Barrow (knee) also plans on playing after the bye week. The Redskins DST remains worthy of starting in all leagues.
10/16/2004
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LB Arrington ruled out
News: LB Lavar Arrington (knee) has been ruled out for Week 6.
Analysis: In other news, the Redskins also downgraded CB Andre Lott (hamstring)and KR Chad Morton (knee) from probable to questionable.
10/15/2004
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LB Lavar Arrington practices
News: According to the Washington Post, Arrington (knee) participated in drills on Thursday. However, he remains questionable for Week 6. DE Ron Warner and DT Joe Salave'a (calf)(ankle) are also questionable.
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) is doubtful and CB Shawn Springs (ankle) is probable.
10/14/2004
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LB Arrington questionable
News: According to the Washington Post, Lavar Arrington (knee) isn't certain about his status for Week 6. "You have to ask the trainers, because I don't know," Arrington said. "They've got to tell me."
Analysis: In other news, DL Joe Salave'a (calf) is questionable for Week 6. CB Shawn Springs (ankle) is probable, and DT Phillip Daniels (groin) is out.
10/12/2004
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'Skins lose Matt Bowen
News: According to the Washington Post, DB Bowen (knee) is out for the season. "I'm disappointed," Bowen said, "but you go day by day and just try to get better, that's all I can do right now. I don't really have any other options."
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) will be listed as doubtful for Week 6. LB Lavar Arrington (knee) ran on Monday without hinderance. He is questionable.
10/11/2004
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DB Matt Bowen injures knee
News: The Washington Post reports that Bowen will have an MRI exam on his right knee Monday. He left Sunday's game against Baltimore in the first quarter. Safety Ryan Clark replaced Bowen, but he sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: The Redskins DST has played relatively consistent this season. Continue starting them in all leagues.
10/8/2004
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KR Morton probable
News: According to the Washington Post, Chad Morton (concussion, knee) is probable for Week 5.
Analysis: Morton was upgraded after practicing on Thursday.
10/7/2004
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LBs Arrington, Barrow out
News: According to the Washington Post, Lavar Arrington (knee), Micheal Barrow (knee) and DE Phillip Daniels (groin) are out for Week 5.
Analysis: In other news, DB Andre Lott (hamstring) and KR Chad Morton (concussion, knee) are questionable.
10/6/2004
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LB Arrington wants to return
News: According to the Washington Post, Lavar Arrington (knee) wants to return this week. "I'm going to tear this league up when I get back," Arrington said. In reality, it appears he will miss Sunday's game against Baltimore.
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) and DT Phillip Daniels (groin) are likely out for Week 5.
10/5/2004
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LB Barrow going to I-R?
News: According to the Washington Post, Micheal Barrow (knee) might be placed on injured reserve. He went to see another specialist Monday about a tendon tear in his left knee. "It's something that's hard to put your finger on," coach Joe Gibbs said of Barrow's injury. "The more people we have look at it, we figure maybe somebody will come up with it. We think he's a heck of a football player, and we're doing every single thing we can. We're going to go as far and as long as we can with it."
Analysis: LB Antonio Pierce has started all four regular-season games in Barrow's absence.
10/3/2004
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LBs Barrow, Arrington out
News: Micheal Barrow (knee) and Lavar Arrington (knee) are out for Week 4.
Analysis: Expect LB Antonio Pierce to start.
10/1/2004
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LB Antonio Pierce OK
News: According to the Washington Times, Pierce (foot) has been taken off the injury report. LB Micheal Barrow (knee) was limited in practice Friday and remains questionable, so expect Pierce to start.
Analysis: In other news, DB Andre Lott (hamstring) has been downgraded from doubtful to out for Week 4.
10/1/2004
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DB Bowen upgraded
News: According to the Washington Post, DB Matt Bowen (groin) was upgraded from questionable to probable for Week 4.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is worth considering in leagues with 12-plus teams.
9/30/2004
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KR Chad Morton questionable
News: According to the Washington Post, Morton (concussion, knee) is listed as questionable for Week 4. Coach Joe Gibbs said James Thrash would return punts and Ladell Betts would return kickoffs if Morton cannot play.
Analysis: In other news, DBs Andre Lott (hamstring) and Matt Bowen (groin) are also questionable. LB LaVar Arrington (right knee surgery) and DE Phillip Daniels (right groin tear) are out. LB Mike Barrow (left knee tendon tear) did not practice and is listed as questionable.
9/29/2004
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S Matt Bowen injured
News: The Washington Post reports Bowen pulled his groin in the first half of Monday night's loss to Dallas. "You can tell when something is wrong," Bowen said, "and it just didn't feel right after that." Bowen is questionable for Week 4.
Analysis: In other news, KR Chad Morton suffered a knee sprain and a concussion, but coach Joe Gibbs expects him to be fine for this week. "His knee was pretty sore [Tuesday] and with that we'll see," Gibbs said. "But it's nothing serious there."
9/28/2004
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LB Arrington back sooner?
News: According to the Washington Times, Lavar Arrington (knee) wants to be back sooner than expected. "Two-to-four they say, so that means I'll probably be back in, like, a week and a half," Arrington said. "Hopefully I'll make that move and be back somewhere short of what everybody's expecting. We'll see what happens."
Analysis: Arrington's absence makes the Redskins DST less attractive in Fantasy Football.
9/28/2004
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S Bowen injures groin
News: According to the Washington Post, S Matt Bowen missed most of the second half of Monday's game against Dallas with a groin strain.
Analysis: In other news, KR Chad Morton also left the game with a knee strain and concussion after getting hit hard on a return.
9/28/2004
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LB Barrow inactive in Week 3
News: LB Michael Barrow (knee) was a spectator for the third consecutive week, as Antonio Pierce filled in for him once again in Week 3 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: The Redskins allowed 287 net yards and one sack while failing to pick off a Vinny Testaverde pass or force a fumble. The Redskins might be a good starting defensive unit against Cleveland's inept offense in Week 4.
9/26/2004
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LB Barrow aggravates knee
News: According to the Washington Times, Micheal Barrow aggravated his injured knee Saturday's practice and appears unlikely to play in Week 3. "We'll probably still look at it, but I don't think it looks good right now," linebackers coach Dale Lindsey said. "It's similar to last week. I don't think he's quite where he wants to be."
Analysis: LB Antonio Pierce will start for the third consecutive week in Barrow's absence.
News: The Washington Times reports LaVar Arrington underwent surgery Thursday to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Analysis: Arrington is out two to four weeks.
9/23/2004
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Arrington listed as questionable
News: According to the Washington Post, Lavar Arrington (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 3.
Analysis: In other news, S Matt Bowen (shoulder) and LB Antonio Pierce (ribs) are probable.
9/22/2004
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LB Barrow likely out
News: According to the Washington Post, Micheal Barrow could miss his third straight game because of tendinitis in his left knee.
Analysis: LB Antonio Pierce will again get the call should Barrow be unable to play.
9/21/2004
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DE Daniels out for 'Skins
News: The Washington Post reports Philip Daniels will miss two to four weeks with a groin strain.
Analysis: The Redskins DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams in Week 3.
9/19/2004
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LB Arrington to start
News: According to reports, Lavar Arrington (knee) will start in Week 2.
Analysis: In other news, LB Antonio Pierce will start in the absence of LB Micheal Barrow (knee), who is inactive.
9/18/2004
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Arrington questionable for Week 2
News: The Washington Post reports that LaVar Arrington (knee) was downgraded to questionable for Sunday's game at the Giants. He said he intends to play.
Analysis: The Washington defense was stellar against Tampa Bay in Week 1. Keep them active this week against a team in transition.
9/17/2004
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LB Arrington practices
News: According to the Washington Times, Lavar Arrington (knee) returned to practice Thursday and will play in Week 2. "I rested him at the end of practice in the last period," assistant head coach for defense Gregg Williams said. "I wanted to see him go, and I'm anxious to see how he did. It didn't seem too bad while I was watching him, but I wasn't watching him the whole time."
Analysis: In other news, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) remains questionable. LB Antonio Pierce will start if Barrow is unable to play.
9/16/2004
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LB Barrow might be inactive
News: According to the Washington Post, Micheal Barrow (knee) could be inactive for the second straight week. He has not practiced fully since Aug. 7, and is not taking part in many contact drills.
Analysis: In other news, LB Lavar Arrington (knee) has been listed as probable for Week 2.
9/14/2004
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Rookie DB Taylor doesn't start
News: According to the Washington Post, Sean Taylor did not start in Week 1. The coaches will determine over the next few days whether he will start in Week 2.
Analysis: In other news, LB Antonio Pierce will start in Week 2 if Micheal Barrow (knee) is unable to play.
9/12/2004
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LB Micheal Barrow out
News: Barrow (knee) was inactive for Week 1. The Redskins DST looked good against Tampa Bay without him, holding the Buccaneers to 10 points with three sacks.
Analysis: Consider this unit in Week 2 against the Giants in the Meadowlands.
9/9/2004
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LB Barrow listed as questionable
News: According to the Washington Post, Micheal Barrow (knee) is questionable for Week 1. Antonio Pierce will start if Barrow is unable to play.
Analysis: Barrow's potential absence makes the Redskins DST less attractive as a starting option in Week 1.
9/8/2004
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LB Barrow remains uncertain
News: The Washington Post reports Michael Barrow participated in some drills on Tuesday but his status for the season opener is still uncertain.
Analysis: Barrow's absence makes the Redskins DST less attractive as a starting option in Week 1.
9/5/2004
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Redskins defense news update
News: LB LaVar Arrington (knee) was able to return to action in Friday's preseason game against Atlanta. He recorded a tackle, sack and forced fumble.
Analysis: In other news, DE Regan Upshaw was among the notable cuts over the weekend on the defensive side of the ball. CB Rashad Bauman, DT Ryan Boschetti, CB Rufus Brown, LB Chris Clemons, DT Cedric Killings, CB Garnell Wilds and DE Darrell Wright were also released.
8/31/2004
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Arrington returns, Barrow out
News: According to the Washington Post, LB Lavar Arrington (knee) has returned to practice. However, LB Micheal Barrow (knee) is still out of action.
Analysis: Arrington is questionable for the team's preseason finale against Atlanta, while Barrow is listed as doubtful.
8/30/2004
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DE Daniels to debut
News: According to the Washington Post, Phillip Daniels (abdominal strain) intends to make his preseason debut in the finale Friday against the Atlanta Falcons. "I hope I can get in the game to get some contact before the season starts," Daniels said.
Analysis: In other news, LBs Lavar Arrington (knee) and Micheal Barrow (knee) hope to return to practice this week.
8/26/2004
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DE Daniels still a question
News: According to the Washington Post, Phillip Daniels (abdominal) would like to make his Redskins debut in the final preseason game, at FedEx Field against Atlanta Sept. 3. However, he will take no chances with his injury, which has lingered since a minicamp in June.
Analysis: The 'Skins have some issues on defense, but this unit still warrants late-round consideration in leagues with 12-plus teams.
8/25/2004
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Arrington, Barrow out
News: The Washington Post reports LaVar Arrington didn't practice again Tuesday because of a knee injury. He might be forced to sit out his second straight preseason game when Washington plays at St. Louis on Friday. Micheal Barrow (knee) is also a question mark for the game.
Analysis: The 'Skins have some issues on defense, but this unit still warrants late-round consideration in leagues with 12-plus teams.
8/24/2004
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LB Arrington still out
News: The Washington Post reports LaVar Arrington (knee) missed a third straight practice on Monday. LB Micheal Barrow (knee) participated in running drills for the first time in several sessions.
Analysis: Arrington's status is considered day to day.
8/23/2004
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LB Marcus Washington gains praise
News: The Washington Post reports that Washington has been solid this preseason. "Marcus Washington is quickly setting an example of what it is to be the kind of Redskin that we want," assistant head coach Gregg Williams said, "and he played with a very up-tempo, physical attitude and nature [Saturday] night. There were many snaps when he played ... when he was sending some messages on film that he wanted people to see about him, and it was the right kind of message when he was bringing some of the contact that he brought."
Analysis: Washington will play strong-side linebacker, with Micheal Barrow at middle and Lavar Arrington moving to the weak side.
8/20/2004
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LB Arrington out at Miami
News: According to the Washington Post, LaVar Arrington remained out of practice with a first-degree sprain to his left knee. He will not travel with the team to Miami, according to Bubba Tyer, the team's director of sports medicine. "It's day-to-day; as the days go, so shall I," Arrington said. "It's preseason. I don't want to risk making it worse than it is."
Analysis: Tyer expects Arrington to be back on the field for Monday's practice, and the rest over the weekend is a precaution.
8/16/2004
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Brandon Noble returns
News: According to the Washington Post, Noble (knee surgery) played this past weekend in a preseason game against Carolina. Noble, who suffered broken right hand in practice last week, appears set to make an impact this season.
Analysis: Noble's presence in the middle of the line should aid in the unit's ability to effectively stop the run this season.
8/9/2004
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Secondary shines in win
News: First-round pick S Sean Taylor picked off two passes in his preseason debut against Denver on Monday night. One of the interceptions was good for a three-yard touchdown. Offseason addition CB Shawn Springs also had an interception.
Analysis: The addition of Springs and Taylor to the secondary strengthens a solid Washington defensive unit. Once the elite units are selection, the Redskins are a decent No. 1 choice in most formats.
3/5/2004
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Redskins add Marcus Washington
News: Washington signed Washington to a six-year contract Friday. He will replace Jessie Armstead in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Washington's defense has seen numerous changes recently with the addition of Shawn Springs, Cornelius Griffin, Phillip Daniels and now Washington. Expect struggles early on in the season until this group gels and forms one of the top units in the NFC, especially against the pass.
2/14/2004
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Redskins' Bailey to shop around
News: Washington is allowing Champ Bailey to pursue a trade. According to his agent, Jack Reale, seven or eight teams have expressed interest. Talks for a new contract, with the current one expiring next month, have gone nowhere.
Analysis: Obviously, Washington's pass defense would take a huge hit here. Expect Bailey's new employers' interception totals to climb.
12/17/2003
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Redskins defense injury update
News: The Washington Times reports S David Terrell missed practice on Wednesday due to a knee injury and he is doubtful for Week 16 at Chicago.
Analysis: The Redskins also have two other players with lesser injuries. LB LaVar Arrington (knee) missed practice on Wednesday, but he is expected to play. DE Bruce Smith took his scheduled day off on Wednesday and is probable for Week 16 with a knee injury. The Redskins are only worth using as a Fantasy defense in 16-team leagues or larger.
News: The Washington Post reports that Washington signed troubled defensive tackle Darrell Russell on Wednesday. He might play as soon as Sunday at Dallas.
Analysis: Russell could help Washington's pass defense with solid play. But the team still has numerous injuries to contend with and should be reserved at Dallas Sunday.
10/28/2003
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CB Rashard Bauman injured
News: According to the Washington Post, Bauman suffered an ankle injury on Monday and is questionable for Week 9. CB Fred Smoot (sternum) is also questionable. DT Jermaine Haley (thumb) said he would not know at least until midweek whether he will be able to play Sunday.
Analysis: These injuries makes starting the Redskins defense a gamble for Fantasy owners.
10/15/2003
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Smoot out 3-4 weeks
News: According to the Washington Times, CB Fred Smoot (bruised chest) is out three to four weeks.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is only worth starting in larger leagues.
10/15/2003
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Arrington to see new role
News: According to the Washington Post, LB Lavar Arrington might be used more as a pass rusher in the coming weeks. "We're blitzing him a lot, and we'll continue to blitz him a lot," defensive coordinator George Edwards said. "We've rushed him primarily in the third-down situations. ... What's hard is picking and choosing the times to do that." CB Fred Smoot (clavicle) is expected to miss Week 7.
Analysis: The Redskins defense is only worth starting in larger leagues.
9/21/2003
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Smoot remains questionable
News: The Washington Post reports Fred Smoot remains questionable for Week 3 against the N.Y. Giants. Team officals are leaning towards keeping him out of the game.
Analysis: If Smoot is sidelined, Rashad Bauman would be slated to start in his place.
9/19/2003
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Fred Smoot injured
News: The Washington Post reports Smoot suffered a concussion during Thursday's practice. He was taken by ambulance from Redskins Park to a nearby hospital for tests, including an X-ray of his neck and an MRI exam. He was released late Thursday, but his status for Week 3 is uncertain.
Analysis: CB Rashad Bauman, who is dealing with a hamstring injury, would likely replace Smoot. The only other cornerback on the roster is rookie Ade Jimoh.
9/1/2003
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Redskins face Jets on Thursday
News: The Washington Redskins open the regular season against the N.Y. Jets at FedEx Field on Thursday. The 'Skins defense allowed 299.2 yards per game last season, good for fifth-best in the NFL.
Analysis: The Jets could struggle offensively without Chad Pennington, which makes the Redskins defense a good starting option in larger leagues.
8/26/2003
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Washington acquires DT Dalton
News: Lional Dalton was traded to the Washington Redskins on Tuesday for a conditional draft selection in 2004. He was carted off the field during his first practice due to heat-related symptoms. "I picked a great day to come back," said Dalton. "I had a long flight. I was a little dehydrated. I didn't eat lunch or breakfast. I had Gatorade, that's about it. I think I need to hydrate myself and eat before practice next time."
Analysis: Dalton strengthens an injury-plagued defensive line. Despite the addition, the Redskins should still only be counted on as a No. 2 defensive unit.
8/17/2003
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Injuries mounting for Redskins
News: DL Brandon Noble tore three ligaments in his left knee and dislocated his kneecap in Saturday's preseason game against New England. He is expected to miss the season. DL Bernard Jackson suffered a sprained ankle and he is out at least one month.
Analysis: The team might trade for a replacement for Noble, with Lionel Dalton of Denver a name rumored to be headed to the nation's capital. Unless they fill the void of Noble, it might be a long season in Washington as they attempt to stop the run. The Fantasy value of the defensive unit will decrease significantly if they do not get a veteran to plug into the lineup.
7/30/2003
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Jeremiah Trotter looking good in camp
News: According to the Washington Post, Jeremiah Trotter (knee surgery) is practicing often and well. Coach Steve Spurrier was going to limit him to one practice per day, but Trotter hasn't missed even one workout.
Analysis: Trotter has the potential to be a solid player in Fantasy leagues that use individual defenders and makes the Redskins defense more appealing for owners.
7/30/2003
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DT Dan Wilkinson released
News: The Redskins released Dan Wilkinson on Tuesday. The team is expected to use Jermaine Haley in the starting lineup.
Analysis: The deletion of Wilkinson from the roster does not decrease the defensive units' Fantasy value significantly. Wilkinson was an underachiever which this above-average defense will not miss much.
7/29/2003
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Bruce Smith to retire after 2003 season
News: According to the Washington Post, Smith will retire after the 2003 season. "I've been thinking that for quite some time," Smith said. "I'm just happy to be in the position that I'm in right now, to be able to play this game that I've loved to play for so long. Going into my 19th year -- I never would have thought and I never would have dreamed that I would play this game for more than 10 or 12 years."
Analysis: Smith is far past his prime but still helps the overall value of the Redskins defense.
7/24/2003
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Washington adds defensive end
News: The Redskins signed defensive end Bernard Holsey to a one-year contract.
Analysis: Holsey will compete for a reserve spot, and his signing has no significance in any Fantasy leagues.
