2009 Redskins D/ST Report Cards

Defensive Line – B-

The Skins ranked 16th in the NFL against the run…so that’s an ok job. 34 sacks by D-lineman (including Orakpo,) is a far better job than any in recent memory. Whether or not Haynesworth is a bust is up for debate…I say they got exactly what paid for. Haynesworth’s career averages in the 7 seasons prior to this year were 49 tackles and 3.5 sacks…while playing approx. 50% of the snaps. He gave the Redskins 37 tackles and 4 sacks and played approx. 50% of the snaps. I thought Haynesworth played well and is definitely a difference maker. Will the next D-coordinator let him make more plays? And if the next D-coordinator runs a 3-4 defense, how will Haynesworth fit in? Golston and Griffin had decent years. Carter had a career year and deserves credit for playing the last couple games with a torn bicep. Phillip Daniels also deserves credit for playing hurt. Whether Orakpo is a DE or a LB…he’s a badass. I heart Lorenzo Alexander.



Linebacker - B

London Fletcher was jobbed of a Pro Bowl appearance again. He is the rock of the defense and had 142 tackles. Rocky McIntosh had his best year as a Redskin. Orakpo had 11 sacks. Depth is an issue.



Cornerback - C

The Skins ranked 9th overall against the pass, a number I believe to be misleading. The Redskins ranked near the bottom of the NFL with only 11 interceptions. Rogers had zero interceptions and lost his starting job. Hall played o.k., but is not the elite shutdown corner that we paid for. Smoot is declining, if not done. Not sold on Tryon and Barnes couldn’t find his way onto the field. Help wanted.



Safety - C-

I heart Reed Doughty overall, but he struggles in pass coverage…which is better than Landry who just struggles. Horton lost his starting job before an injury ended his season.



Special Teams - C-

The kicking game (Suisham) cost the Redskins 2 wins. Hunter Smith made a couple trick plays work, but his punting was below average and he missed several games with a leg injury. Rock Cartwright is no longer any good at the one thing he was good at…which doesn’t bode well for his future. Thomas may be ok as a kick returner. Randle El is the worst punt returner I have ever seen in my 30 years as a fan of the Redskins. Once again, I heart Lorenzo Alexander. One final thing…swing gate.

Cheers and Hail