Why? Because I knew he had one.

Here’s what he told me:

@BmitchliveCSN Any game in particular that was your favorite Skins game to watch in 2011?

February 3, 2012 1:39 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@UltimateRedskin

Rant Sports-RCAllen

@UltimateRedskin the Seattle game.

February 3, 2012 2:27 pm via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@BmitchliveCSN

Brian Mitchell

@UltimateRedskin they showed fire from start till finish.

February 3, 2012 2:28 pm via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@BmitchliveCSN

Brian Mitchell

I felt it was a great rally and a strong finish. Bear in mind  the Redskins were down 17-7 by time the fourth quarter got underway.

The Redskins scored 7 in the first, were scoreless in the second and third quarter but pulled it together in the fourth.   On third down and three to go with 9:51 left, Redskins Running Back Roy Helu rushed for a 28-yard touchdown.  With 6:18 left in the Fourth, Grossman goes 50 yards to Anthony Armstrong for a touchdown. With about a minute left, Graham Gano kicks a 25-yard field goal.  The machine was working, and could not be stopped.  It was working so well  D’Angelo Hall intercepted Seahawks QB Tarvaris Jackson in the last minute of the game.  That pretty much sealed the deal and ended a losing streak that began Oct. 16 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

However, they would go on to lose two more after that impressive comeback. It’s at times like those when you look back and wonder what went wrong? It’s just what you do from a spectator’s point of view. Players put it behind them and work harder, practice harder for the next game.

So it’s the beginning of the weekend, and I wanted to talk about something different.  Since the groundhog prophesied it would be six more weeks of winter (Where’s my Weather Dominator when I need one…), and because I had a little bit of time on my hands, I decided that I’d hit up some of the Redskins players and ask them the same question.  Here’s who responded thus far:

@UltimateRedskin beating the giants in NY was my fav. Was fun watching their crowd clear out in the 3rd qtr

February 3, 2012 1:50 pm via Twitter for AndroidReplyRetweetFavorite

@GrahamGano

Graham Gano

@UltimateRedskin win vs NY football Giants in NY. No one gave us a chance and we played well and won.

February 3, 2012 1:50 pm via Twitter for iPhoneReplyRetweetFavorite

@doughty37

Reed Doughty

Just an example of how there were some bright spots in 2011 for the Redskins.  Far and few? Maybe, from a perspective of wins and losses. I’m sure the franchise as a whole found a map for success for the 2012 season. It depends from which angle you look. It’s called looking for the good in every situation, being real, and moving forward with positivity.

According to ESPN.com, the Colts face a March 8 deadline for a decision on Manning. They owe him a $28 million option bonus on that date. If they don’t pay it, he becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Thanks to “jtlaw21″ from Zimbio.com for posting the following timeline of events showing how things went down for Manning:

September 12th, 2010: Colts play the Texans Week One of the 2010, and lose 34-24. Peyton Manning is sacked twice and knocked down and around seemingly a gazillion times.

September 14th, 2010: I am contacted by a knowledgeable source, via email, informing me that Peyton has severe neck pain due to an injury and the Colts staff are aware and treating it. The source asks to be listed as anonymous for fear of reprisals. I spend the next three days following up with source on details.

September 16th, 2010: The Week Two injury report for Thursday is released. It makes no mention of Peyton Manning with any kind of neck injury.

September 17th, 2010: Stampede Blue story is posted titled, Rumor: Peyton Manning Is Hurt. Chaos ensues.

September 19th, 2010: The Colts play the Giants at Lucas Oil Stadium. Peyton is seen with a sleeve over his left elbow. This was a similar sleeve he wore in 2010 while recovering from a March 2010 neck surgery. Manning threw the ball only 26 times in that game (his fewest attempts in one game all season, save the Jets playoff game, which was also 26) as Colts win 38-14.

INDIANAPOLIS – SEPTEMBER 19: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts throws a pass during the NFL game against the New York Giants at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 19 2010 in Indianapolis Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

October 15th, 2010: After watching five Colts games, ESPN TV analyst Ron Jaworski says that Peyton has not been real sharp, and that perhaps time is catching up with him. Colts fans eviscerate Jaworski.

November 21st, 2010: Peyton Manning begins a stretch of three games that has him throwing three or more interceptions per game.

November 28th, 2010: Against the Chargers, Peyton is seen with the sleeve from Week Two now on his throwing arm, covering his right elbow. He tosses four picks against San Diego, including two returned for touchdowns. Colts blown out at home 36-14.

INDIANAPOLIS – NOVEMBER 28: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts throws a pass during the NFL game against the San Diego Chargers at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 28 2010 in Indianapolis Indiana. The Chargers won 36-14.(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

November 29th, 2010: Phil Wilson of the Indianapolis Star reports that Colts coach Jim Caldwell claims the sleeve on Peytons right elbow was due to an abrasion he suffered falling to the ground.

December 1st, 2010: The first injury report for Week Thirteen makes no mention of any injury associated with Peyton Manning. Peyton has not spent one second on the injury list all season.

December 2nd, 2010: Peyton Manning admits to CBS Sports that he had a stinger injury in his right shoulder and played through it against the Chargers in Week Twelve.

December 3rd, 2010: Final injury report for Week Thirteen. No mention of Peyton with any kind of injury despite him admitting to CBS he had one.

December 5th, 2010: Peyton throws four INTs against the Dallas Cowboys. Colts lose 38-35 at home. Fall to 6-6 on the season. Peyton plays the entire game with sleeve on his right elbow. That must be some abrasion, Coach Caldwell.

December 9th, 2010: Don Banks of Sports Illustrated writes an online article saying Peyton Manning is possibly playing hurt. He cites Stampede Blues Sept. 17th post as a source. He also quotes an unnamed league source who states that Peyton has lost some arm strength.

December 26th, 2011: Colts play the Raiders in Oakland, and the sleeve is now gone from Peytons right elbow.

OAKLAND CA – DECEMBER 26: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts passes against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 26 2010 in Oakland California. (Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)

January 8th, 2011: Colts are eliminated from the playoffs 17-16 by the NY Jets. Peyton finishes the season with 679 attempts, the most in one season for him in his entire thirteen year career. For all of the 2010 season, Peyton Manning is not listed on the injury report prior to a game.

May 24th, 2011: Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star reports that Peyton Manning has had surgery to repair a disc-related issue in his neck. Chappell states that the injury that cause the disc-related issue happened somewhat recently, but did not provide details. Its assumed the source for this causality explanation is Peyton himself, as he reported the surgery.

May 24th, 2011: After news broke regarding Peytons neck surgery, Colts owner Jim Irsay was asked by reporters at the 2011 Spring owners meeting in Indianapolis if Peytons injury occurred during the 2010 season. Irsay says that the injury built up over time, but just only started to cause Peyton discomfort.

-Zimbio.com

Picking up Peyton at this point would be what the WWE calls a “desperation move”.  You know, when the wrestler is practically down for the count but comes off with some crazy maneuver to stay in the match (come on you know what I’m talking about.)

This isn’t a concussion. This isn’t a case of broken ribs, or even a punctured lung (for you Cowboys fans out there). This could be a case of walking or not walking, especially if he gets hit the wrong way. I don’t care how well he thinks he’s going to be when 2012 season comes into full view, he’s a risk at all costs.  If Mike Shanahan does make a move for him, he sends a variety of messages:

•  The 2011 NFL Draft, while not having the No.1 pick, could not find a young quality quarterback to fill the position.
•  The 2011 NFL Draft’s pick plan was not a quarterback, but to provide more depth to the roster in key areas.
• Inquiring a veteran quarterback is the way to go, even if Donovan McNabb tanked…under his command.
• Mike Shanahan places his tenure in the hands of Peyton Manning, knowing he had a season worse than his former, Jim Zorn.
• While the quarterback position has been the most scrutinized by the media, he believes the entire body of work needs an upgrade, therefore (and this  a reach..) making the urgency of a new quarterback no different than the importance of having good Running Backs.

However, there is an upside.

The Upside would be that Peyton does play at the level we all know.

In 2010 he completed 450 passes for 4,700 yards.  Can you imagine that in D.C.?  It’s nice to think about, but when really comes down to it, we have to at least give the Draft a chance.  The Redskins don’t have to take such a risk.

They have several choices, and  Peyton Manning should be considered last.

They say discouraging statements like, “As long as Dan Snyder is owner, you guys will never win!” We tend to hear this a lot too,  “Skins are off-season champs, and guys that go to Washington fail.” For myself, this has been a punchline I’ve recently received: “I have two words for you, John Beck.”

It is not easy, and the brash statements get worse around the Super Bowl when Skins fans reminisce the good times.

So, I’ve decided to come up with a few steps to help out my fellow Skins family during these hard times.

Step 1: Don’t set yourself up

Whether you’re at a Super Bowl party or sports bar, often times fans have “round table discussions.” Don’t set yourself up! For example, if you’re celebrating with Giants fans, don’t mention the fact Washington beat them twice during the regular season. You’re setting yourself up for failure.

Step 2: Eat Well

Chicken, pizza, chips n dip, ribs, seafood… whatever you eat, make sure it is prepared correctly and you get your food first. Its a rule non-Redskins fans often forget, and that’s okay. Unless a fan representing one of the teams in the Super Bowl is present, Redskins Nation gets first dibs on everything.

Step 3: Dealing with Eagles/Cowboys fans

Eagles fans like to instigate, and if you’re celebrating with some, all you need to do is give them a number. That number is 3. Why? Because the Eagles have never sniffed a Lombardi, and as I’m sure you know, the Redskins have 3. They may attempt to bring up the past 20 years of this franchise, however that’s irrelevant. Bottom line, they’ve never tasted glory.

Now with Cowboy fans, you have to hit them where it hurts, which is the QB position. Use the word “Romo” early and often. Romo, (v): Act of choking.

Step 4: Strong Willed

Mean what you say, and say what you mean! There’s nothing worse than a Redskins fan who starts of strong, but ends up allowing the criticism get to them. You will hear a lot of bashing on the Quarterback situation. They will talk about Rex and Beck, but stay strong and optimistic! If you decide to wear some Redskins apparel, wear it with pride.

Step 5: Picking a Team

Redskins fans should never root for a division rival, unless the team is playing Dallas. This is on page 1 of “Redskins Nation’s Fandom Handbook”. Don’t root for the Giants, as you could risk losing your fan card.

Follow me on twitter: @Roccoskins

Washington had success on both sides of the wall. The Offensive line suffered a few injuries, yet showed good depth, and the defensive line was a huge bright spot.

In our 2nd installment of Positional Reviews, we will evaluate “The Wall of Noise” from the 2011 Washington Redskins football team. Make sure you check out our 1st installment of reviews here, and the proposed solution to Washington’s Wr woes, here.

Offensive Linemen:

• Eric Cook, C/G
• Will Montgomery, C/G
• Trent Williams, LT
• Jammal Brown, RT
• Chris Chester, G
• Maurice Hurt, G
• Sean Locklear (Will be released)
• Nevin McCaskill (Signed Jan. 3rd)
• Willie Smith, T
• Kory Lichtensteiger, G/C
• Tyler Polumbus, T

Willie Smith was a bright spot in this group. The undrafted rookie only played in 4 games (started 3), and showed some promising ability.

I was a fan of Willie Smith’s when scouting O linemen for the 2011 NFL draft, and when Smith went undrafted, I knew the Skins would sign him. This guy could be a steal.

He made a transition from Defensive line, and had less than 4 years of experience as a blocker. He’s raw, but is growing in front of our eyes. With Smith’s great athleticism and long arms, he could eventually be the starting Right Tackle for this team. Especially with Jammal Brown oft injured. I expect Smith to work on the right side in 2012, and compete with Brown.

Unfortunately, Willie Smith’s chance to start in 2011 was due to the Redskins 2nd year Left Tackle, Trent Williams illegally utilizing “plants”. However, if Trent learns from his mistake(s), he too has a promising future.

In 10 games, Trent Williams allowed only 3 sacks. He showed a lot of improvement from his rookie season, and as the cliche goes, “Can be as good as he wants to be.”

Trent is a feisty football player, which has been a bad and good thing. In 2011, he drew more penalties than you would want. Yet, I love everything about him, as long as he works hard on and off the field.

Some tend to believe the Redskins need an upgrade at the two Guard positions, however, I disagree. Chris Chester had the best season no one ever talks about. In addition to, Kory Lichtensteiger playing very well before suffering a season ending injury.

Chris Chester allowed zero sacks in 2011. A goal for offensive linemen is the exact opposite of skill position’s, which is not getting your named called. Chester’s name was rarely mentioned as he held down the Right Guard position. He signed a 5 year deal with Washington during the 2011 free agency period, and deserves a starting spot on this team next season.

Mike Shanahan referred to Lichtensteiger as Washington’s best run blocker. Now, we’ve heard Shanahan sing high praises to others before, *cough* (John Beck), however there was no need for him to hype Kory’s ability. So, I believe the statement, and it was obvious early in the season. He’s a free agent this year, but I do expect for Washington to resign Kory if he’s cleared medically.

Another 2012 free agent I expect to return is, Center/Guard, Will Montgomery. Will was moved around for a short time in 2011, due to Kory’s injury, however found a home at the Center position. He played well, and on a team with numerous of guys that can play center, separated himself from the bunch.

In order for Montgomery to move back to Center, the Redskins promoted their rookie Guard, Maurice Hurt from the practice squad. Hurt struggled at times, as any rookie would, however really showed promise late in the season. He’s a guy with a big upside, and could battle Lichtensteiger for the starting LG position.

My overall grade for the OL is: B-

I love the young guys who could eventually be starters on this front. I don’t believe O line is as big of a need this year. Mike Shanahan is known for molding his own linemen, and it’s obvious, he’s having success doing that with the Redskins.

Defensive Linemen:

• Kentwan Balmer
• Stephen Bowen
• Adam Carriker
• Kedric Golston
• Jarvis Jenkins
• Scott Darrion
• Doug Worthington
• Chris Neild
• Chris Baker
• Barry Cofield

In one year, the Redskins Defensive Line went from being a weakness to a strength. The three man front anchored by Nose Tackle, Barry Cofield, had a ton of success.

The aforementioned, Barry Cofield started out slow, but really came on strong mid season. I like to call the 2011 free agent pickup, “Mr. Consistency.” He played hard and unselfish football each week. With a career high eight passes defended in 2011, I strongly believe we’ve just seen the floor of his potential.

Another consistent player the Redskins picked up via 2011 free agency is, Stephen Bowen. He lead Washington’s D linemen in sacks and tackles, and held down the 5 tech position.

Adam Carriker is set to hit free agency in 2012, and hopefully Washington resigns him. Adam can play both Nose and 5 tech in the 3 man front. Last season, he primarily played Defensive End, and did well with 5.5 sacks.

Although 2011 rookie defensive end, Jarvis Jenkins is set to return from an unfortunate season ending injury, having depth by resigning Adam Carriker can bolster this front even more. Coaches have been raving about Jarvis Jenkins, and he too has the ability to play both Nose and 5 tech. Resigning Adam Carriker could cause all kinds of problems for opposing teams. You could rotate these guys across the line to create match-up advantages.

My overall grade for the DL is: B+

2011 Rookie, Chris Neild flashed at times, however is still in need of developing. Add Kedric Golston to the mix (if healthy), who came in and played well at time. I don’t think Defensive line is a huge need for the Redskins this year.

That was a Super Bowl win, a Super Bowl win, something worth bragging about.

With that being said, can we please stop pushing the issue about how we beat the New York Giants this season?

Is that what we have to lean on?

Are we really leaning on the fact we beat them twice in our Division? Does that really change anything for the Redskins’ Nation?  Does it matter that our two convincing wins made them wake up and smell the roses? It makes the scenario sound like “Hey guys, we’re getting beat by the Redskins. We really need to get our act together.”

Washington Redskins fans need to enter this off season with a new lease on life and it begins in two areas:

1. Stop going over the ’92 win. That was so 1992.  We’ve got to make new memories, new chapters of championships in the books. That’s where everyone’s attention should be. I think we’ve leaned on that wall long enough.

2.  Cut it out with the whole “Well we did beat the Giants” routine.  You’re going to get funny looks, especially with a 5-11 record.   We know better than that. Don’t sell yourself out for two season wins.  We have more to look forward to.

It’s time to stop leaning on the past victories of the respected, honored era of our Redskin predecessors, and the far and few victories of 2011.

We have so much to look forward to. This is going to be an exciting year in the off season, in the  preseason (yeah I know right..) and the regular season.

And you want to know why? Because this will not be a building year for the Washington Redskins. This will be a results-driven year. We’re in the right position to draft a good quarterback, possibly grab some free agents, and build on a team that needs just a little more depth to be playoff bound.

And this Redskins team is excited.

We have the elements that Joe Gibbs talked about so long ago when he said, “They all like each other, and the chemistry has been terrific…We know we aren’t a great team and that we have to play hard and together to win. And that’s what we did.”

Well, that’s what the Redskins can do in 2012…and they will.  Too much is at stake. The Redskins aren’t a good team, they are better. Now, all they have to do is play the game they love and win.  How hard could that be…this year?

At the hotel in Hawaii http://t.co/VceQaYX3

January 28, 2012 2:29 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@LondonsBridge59

London's Bridge

Below is the short, yet simple exchange:

@LondonsBridge59 @LFletcher59 how u doin and is Hawaii treatin ya right

January 28, 2012 3:43 pm via Twitter for iPadReplyRetweetFavorite

@UltimateRedskin

R.C. Allen

London's loving Hawaii and chillin with fam! Ready for the game tonight! @UltimateRedskin @LFletcher59

January 29, 2012 1:12 pm via webReplyRetweetFavorite

@LondonsBridge59

London's Bridge

London Fletcher is a man who is truly appreciative of being at the 2012 Pro Bowl. It doesn’t matter  he was an alternate,  even though he led the league in tackles this past season. Here’s someone that would have cheered for his NFC brothers either way.

London Fletcher is a man we can all rally behind.

He’s one of those guys that doesn’t need a lot of hoopla around him to make an impact. He does his job, and does it well.  I’ve always felt the NFL underrates him because he’s a Redskin, but when you look at the work he’s done with his organization London Bridge, you realize that he’s more than a football player.

This guy is a Statesman.

While I’m mad the NFL didn’t think no one on the Washington Redskins roster was worthy to play in the Pro Bowl this year, I’m glad London’s there. If there were ever a sole Redskin who could represent the franchise, it’s  him.  I’m sure fans  agree.  He really enjoys being there, and enjoys being a Redskin. I don’t think he would leave. He’s got a lot of good things going on in the District.

London Fletcher deserves respect, period.

Redskins Priority Needs: QB, Playmakers in general (Wr, Speedback, Tight End, Kick/Punt Returner), G/RT, DB

Brandon Weeden, QB, OSU: Okay so, I’m starting this off with Weeden, only because I was ready to give him high praise early in the game. He was accurate in the 1st quarter, proved he can roll out the pocket, and had command of the huddle. Here’s the problem, he had 2 interceptions. On the first INT, you could argue, wasn’t all his fault. Can’t really bash him for that one. However, with a chance to possibly bring the south team back, Weeden threw a horrible pass on a deep out route. He under-threw the receiver, and it was just an all around horrible pass. Money could have been made if Weeden drove his foot into the dirt, and led his receiver to the outside shoulder. Now, you could make an excuse that it’s difficult for a QB to enter a football game after being on the sidelines for about 3 quarters. But not even Mike Mayock was ready to justify that. Weeden still makes this list because he had a great week of practice, and built a strong rapport with the coaching staff.

Kirk Cousins, QB, MSU: I would’ve liked to see more from Cousins, however he was very accurate, and proved to have a stronger arm than most thought. Cousins had a touchdown, which was more on the Wr as well as great down-field blocking, and a interception that wasn’t his fault. He does everything well, but not great. Which is something I said about both Andy Dalton and Christian Ponder last year. Cousins wasn’t on the south roster coached by the Redskins staff. However, could be part of the conversation when talking about possible QB targets.

Nick Foles, QB, Arizona: I like what Foles did today. He was the only QB that didn’t throw an interception. Yes, it was helpful for him to have his college teammate and security blanket, Juron Criner. However, he showed great zip on his passes, and good accuracy. The only time Foles wasn’t accurate is when his feet weren’t set. That’s Foles biggest concern, in my opinion. If you fix his footwork, I think this guy can be a good NFL Quarterback. He’s not mobile, he’s a pocket QB, but can move a little. The combine could be huge for a player like Foles, (if he throws there).

Joe Adams, WR/KR/PR, Arkansas: Adams made an early mistake by fumbling the football, however, redeemed himself by going over 100 receiving yards. He was the South Team’s “MOP” (most valueble player). Joe Adams is a speedster with strong hands, and has a knack for making defenders miss. That’s exactly what the Washington Redskins need. This week, Adams proved he’s not only a slot WR in the NFL, but can also play on the outside. Not to mention, he’s a dynamic punt/kick returner.

Juron Criner, WR, Arizona: This guy proved himself worthy during practices and the game. He catches everything. I saw more burst from him during the game, and his route running was crisp. He won’t scare anyone with his speed, but the burst and ability to use his body makes him a solid prospect. He was one of the few Wr’s I saw get off of bump n run coverage in the redzone. The other being, Brian Quick. Who I also thought had a solid day, in terms of route running. Both, I believe, will be on the Redskins radar.

Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt: Hayward had two TD-saving plays, including one where he snagged in a INT. I thought he played a solid game today. He was good in coverage, and of course, showed his playmaking ability. Hayward can play off and press man coverage. The Redskins may look to draft or sign a CB this off-season, making Hayward a possible draft target. Another corner who won’t make this list is Janoris Jenkins. I thought he played a decent game, good in run support. However, bit on a few routes, making my comparison to Asante’ Samuel look solid. He’s still a great talent and will definitely be a first round pick.

Between Kirk Cousins, Ryan Lindley, and Nick Foles,  Braden Weeden is not part of my conversation about a future Redskins quarterback.

Weeden was intercepted twice, was 5 for 56 yards, and wasn’t really a topic of conversation during the game.  Cousins was 5-of-11 passes for 115 yards, and an interception (He was a pick in my mock draft, thus being the reason I mention those stats.)

Yes, I know, everyone says that Weeden is part of the conversation but for me, I don’t see it. I’m not judging him on his body of work today because you can’t. I’ve said this before: He’s not the right fit for the Redskins. We need more than someone that can get down the field for field goals. We’ve got that right now.

Honestly, I don’t see where he’s a part of anyone’s conversation after today.
And that’s just it. But hey, we still got the Combine. Maybe I’m not seeing something. I’ll leave it it there for now.

The quarterback performance at this year’s Senior Bowl gives the Washington Redskins staff  great options for a quarterback, or a backup .  I’m very interested to hear who the buzz names are in the next couple of days.

But when it comes to a starter? Let’s face it- we gotta look to the draft first. If that doesn’t work out, then those guys out there today already have a foot in the door.

The most important points for quarterbacks come fromwho sold themselves as a future Pro QB.  Lindley, Cousins, and Foles did just that.

Great performances:

• MVP:  Isaiah Pead-Gained 31 yards on eight carries , returned two punts — one for 60 yards and the other for 28 yards. This guy was just a rock star.
• Quinton Couples: What? He OWNED the offense.  He was sacking, and just causing a disturbance on the field that, while getting flagged for a late-hit at one point, couldn’t be ignored. Very, very quick.
•  Special Teams, Field Goal Kickers-You get a nod.  No rushing touchdowns this year.

It was also reported that Redskins Head Coach Mike Shanahan has been checking out college quarterbacks for quite a while, lets say for a few months. That’s almost “Captain Obvious” news. With the quarterback situation as it stands, I’m sure he’s been checking out tape all season.

It was a very interesting interview, as Kyle was vocal and forthright about retooling Washington’s offense. It seemed to me that Kyle came on the show ready to make a statement. In my opinion, he did. At one point in the interview, Kyle went on and on about bettering the offense. Thom and Kevin couldn’t even get a word in!

The younger, taller, and more vocal Shanahan made a few very interesting statements in regards to the QB position.

“Everybody wants a franchise Quarterback… unfortunately there’s only about 10 of them on the planet. So people make a lot of mistakes trying to trade their draft away or pay a lot of money to people who really aren’t that. You have to really evaluate, you have to make sure you get the best guy possible. Everybody wants one of those 10 guys, but you don’t just go get one of those guys when they’re not available.”

In my opinion, Kyle made that statement to shoot down all the rumors of Washington possibly trading up for Baylor’s, Robert Griffin III. In addition to, maybe taking a shot at Matt Flynn. I may be reading too much “in between the lines”, however, it’s obvious there was a motive behind that statement.

Here’s a few quotes of Kyle speaking on Rex Grossman and the 2011 offense:

“Rex, had way too many turnovers. Kept both teams in the game. Gave them a chance to win games.”

“You do need to get better at that position. Until you can get a better guy, you have to also get better guys around him.”

“Every touchdown pass this entire year, was caught in the end-zone. Only time it wasn’t was week 16 against Philly with Roy Helu.” (Kyle forgot about Brandon Banks TD pass to Santana Moss, however did say he was specifically talking about the actual Quarterbacks.)

Kyle also said, he doesn’t know if Rex will be back, as it’s out of his control. He went on to say, “I’m trying my hardest to find something better. You have to look at every free agent possibility and see if he can upgrade you.”

When asked about the senior bowl, Kyle said, they want to find out what makes a player tick.

Then Kyle started talking Qb’s again… without being asked, and said, “When you look at all the top QB’s in the league, Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees… they all have A type personalities.”

Kyle went on to say, “When we do go pay a guy or go draft a guy, you can’t get so enamored with, hey we need a quarterback lets go get it. We need a lot of positions. Gotta add some ballers.” Again, sounds like he’s down playing any thoughts about trading up for a QB.

Here’s the part I found really interesting, when asked about Peyton Manning, “Just make sure he’s healthy. Everyone knows he’s one, if not the best Quarterback ever in football. Just hope his neck is alright, and he’ll be Peyton Manning. Hopefully, he’s healthy. If the doctor says he’s healthy, and he’s healthy, then that’s enough for me.”

If the doctor says he’s healthy, and he says he’s healthy, then that’s enough for me… Interesting thing about that is, Kyle was asked a general question about Peyton Manning. He gushed all over the idea of Peyton Manning being on the open market, and cleared medically.

Kyle seemed to close an open some doors of speculation with this interview. If anything has been made clear, it’s that offense is the priority of this offseason.

Last week we graded out the 2011 Washington Redskins Wide Receivers, which you can view here. The position needs one of those “Extreme Makeovers.” The offense is in total “retooling mode” (we as an organization don’t use that other word), and next to Quarterback, the receiver position is a major need.

Here’s the 2011 Washington Redskins Wr’s:

• Jabar Gaffney
• Santana Moss
• Anthony Armstrong
• Leonard Hankerson
• Donte’ Stallworth
• Niles Paul
• Brandon Banks
• David Anderson
• Terrance Austin
• Aldrick Robinson

Donte’ Stallworth and David Anderson are both 2012 free agents, and I don’t expect either to be resigned. Stallworth had a strong finish to the 2011 season, however, that’s after being cut by the Redskins. At 31 years old, I see no reason to bring him back, unless Mike Shanahan wants to use him as a training camp body. At 28 years old, maybe you resign Anderson for competition, however he didn’t do enough to warrant that move. In addition, neither possess what the Redskins truly need at this position, which is playmaker ability.

Revision #1:

• Jabar Gaffney
• Santana Moss
• Anthony Armstrong
• Leonard Hankerson
• Niles Paul
• Brandon Banks
• Terrance Austin
• Aldrick Robinson

With the assumption of both Stallworth and Anderson leaving via Free Agency, we have a list dominated by young players. Leonard Hankerson, Niles Paul, and Aldrick Robinson are all 2011 rookies, and should be a part of this team heading into training camp. Out of the 3, Aldrick Robinson is the only question mark. He’ll have a chance to prove himself, however, won’t be guaranteed a spot on the opening day roster.

Niles Paul is a great run blocker and special teams player, that alone will keep him on this roster. However, he must improve in route running to be considered a receiving target. Mike Shanahan, as we know, won’t play receivers if they can’t beat press, gain separation, and run efficient routes. Niles is a raw player, who worked in a run first offense at Nebraska. With time he should develop into a legit target.

Leonard Hankerson will go into training camp with a chance to start. He flashed stardom with his limited action last season. He has a chance to be great.

Terrance Austin and Brandon Banks where both 2nd year vets in 2011. Neither has been productive on offense, and I can see the Redskins moving on from those players. Austin has slowly developed, and I don’t think he possess enough ability to be a consistent playmaker.

The only reason Brandon Banks was retained last year was due to the lack of playmakers. He’s not going to do much for you on offense, as he can easily be injured. In addition to, not being productive enough on special teams in 2011.

Revision #2:

• Jabar Gaffney
• Santana Moss
• Leonard Hankerson
• Niles Paul
• Aldrick Robinson
• Anthony Armstrong

We’re down to 6 recievers now, and have already mentioned the 2011 rookies being safe. Which essentially drops that number to 3 with, Anthony Armstrong, Santana Moss, and Jabar Gaffney.

Anthony Armstrong has become one of the more beloved players to Redskins Nation. However, entered the infamous, “Shanny Dog House” in 2011. He runs one route well, which is considered the 9 route. He doesn’t gain much seperation, he has a good burst but not long speed, and is not good after the catch. I have a saying that goes, “once you’re in Shanny’s dog house, you’re in a land of no return.” Well, I think that statement stands to be true, as I don’t believe Anthony Armstrong will be a part of the Washington Redskins in 2012.

Revision #3:

• Jabar Gaffney
• Santana Moss
• Leonard Hankerson
• Niles Paul
• Aldrick Robinson

These are the players most likely to be retained. However, I don’t believe Santana Moss and Jabar Gaffney will both be on this team in 2012. Jabar Gaffney was the teams most productive receiver in 2011, and Santana Moss has been on a rapid decline for the past 3 years. Washington would be wise to trade one of these guys, if not both, if they really look to revamp this position. Gaffney has earned a roster spot and should be labeled a starter going into camp. Santana still has some value, and could be traded for a low round pick or even added to the Robert Griffin III package. That’s if the Redskins even create a “RG3 package.”

Washington could add up to 3 addition wide receivers between free agency and the 2012 NFL Draft. So below are 5 players from each option, who could be on Washington’s radar.

2012 NFL Free Agency:

• Dwayne Bowe, 27, Chiefs: Bowe is a great talent, and one of the top receivers in the league. If available, the Redskins could pursue him, however it will cost.
• Vincent Jackson, 29, Chargers: At 6ft 5, Jackson could bring needed size to this offense. However, he’s one DUI away from being suspended a full season.
• Mario Manningham, 26, Giants: With the emergence of Victor Cruz, have to wonder if the Giants allow Mario to walk. He’s talented, yet oft inured Wr.
• Robert Meachem, 27, Saints: Meach is a talented player who has underachieved. He has playmaker ability, size, and speed.
• Eddie Royal, 26, Broncos: Royal is a Shanahan draft pick who hasn’t been productive at the position since Shanahan was fired. He can also return punts/kicks.

2012 NFL Draft:

• Marvin Jones, California: In the Senior Bowl practices I’ve watched, Marvin Jones has impressed. He has a good combination of size and speed, at 6ft 2.
• Joe Adams, Arkansas: Adams has been tearing it up at the combine. He checked out to be 6ft tall, which is great. He has good hands and speed. Would make a great slot WR.
• Brian Quick, Appalachian State: Notice the senior bowl trend… Most scouts have been raving about this 6ft 3 receiver. He’s displayed good speed and ability to separate from DB’s.
• Juron Criner, Arizona: At 6ft 2, Criner is a big target with sure hands. Problem is, I don’t know if he can gain seperation, as his speed is in question.
• Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech: Here’s a guy who is not a senior. He’s an intriguing prospect, because he comes out a Georgia Tech system that’s produced both Calvin Johnson and Demaryius Thomas. At 6ft 4, he’s a big target with good speed. He could be a mid to late round steal.