Redskins' 2010 Outlook: A New Era Begins with Shanahan at the Helm

Strategic Insights -

With the trade of quarterback Jason Campbell to the Oakland Raiders, the Washington Redskins usher in a new era with head coach Mike Shanahan at the helm. The team's 2010 outlook is marked by a mix of optimism and concern as they navigate the challenges of a new season. The Redskins have made significant changes to their roster, acquiring veteran quarterback Donovan McNabb and a pair of experienced running backs in Larry Johnson and Willie Parker. However, age may be catching up to these veterans, and the team's ability to adapt to a new 3-4 defensive alignment will be crucial to their success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Donovan McNabb's arrival is expected to significantly enhance the Redskins' quarterback situation, but his history of injuries is a concern.
  • Clinton Portis returns to run for his old coach with the Denver Broncos, and the Redskins have acquired Larry Johnson and Willie Parker to bolster their backfield.
  • The team's wide receiver corps will rely on Santana Moss to produce, and the emergence of young players like Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas could be a key factor in the team's success.
  • The Redskins have brought in a pair of experienced tight ends in Chris Cooley and Fred Davis to form a strong two-tight end formation.
  • The team's offensive line has undergone significant changes, with the retirement of Chris Samuels and the acquisition of Artis Hicks and Trent Williams.
  • Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth's state of mind will be crucial to the team's success, and the addition of Maake Kemoeatu in the middle should provide a boost.
  • The Redskins' linebacker corps has been one of the team's strengths, with players like Brian Orakpo, Andre Carter, and London Fletcher returning to form a strong unit.
  • The team's defensive backfield has shown promise, with Carlos Rogers and DeAngelo Hall returning, and the arrival of Phillip Buchanon adds depth.
  • Coach Mike Shanahan's arrival is expected to bring a more disciplined approach to the team, and the departure of Jim Zorn is seen as a positive change.

Statistics:

  • Jason Campbell's 2010 salary: $7.2 million [1]
  • Donovan McNabb's career statistics: 36,139 passing yards, 239 touchdowns, 136 interceptions [2]
  • Clinton Portis' career statistics: 7,153 rushing yards, 41 touchdowns [3]
  • Santana Moss' career statistics: 549 receptions, 7,738 receiving yards, 42 touchdowns [4]
  • Chris Cooley's career statistics: 234 receptions, 2,679 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns [5]
  • Brian Orakpo's 2009 statistics: 11 sacks, 2 forced fumbles [6]
  • Albert Haynesworth's 2009 statistics: 5.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles [7]

Sources:

  • [1] "Jason Campbell's Contract" ESPN.com
  • [2] "Donovan McNabb's Career Statistics" NFL.com
  • [3] "Clinton Portis' Career Statistics" NFL.com
  • [4] "Santana Moss' Career Statistics" NFL.com
  • [5] "Chris Cooley's Career Statistics" NFL.com
  • [6] "Brian Orakpo's 2009 Statistics" NFL.com
  • [7] "Albert Haynesworth's 2009 Statistics" NFL.com
  • [8] "Shanahan Takes Helm of Redskins" Washington Post