I’m not saying to ignore what’s going on with the New Orleans Saints, just don’t read too much into it. The Saints know that after all the media chaos caused by the alleged “bounty” system, the suspensions, and with Sean Payton living in Exile like Star Trek’s Khan, the last thing needed is not to sign their fearless hero.

Brees gave his thoughts today on the issue said, “We’ve reached out on a number of occasions and at times I’ve been frustrated by the lack of response.”

He also said, “There should be a sense of urgency and yet it seems like there’s not.”

Drew Brees has a right to be mad though.  Is he worth whatever dollar amount he wants? Yes. Do the Saints have to put a rush on his contract? Of course not.

Drew Brees isn’t going nowhere.

Brees and the Saints franchise know that would tear the city apart. It’s enough they have to endure the Scarlet  Letter “B” on their jerseys when they take to the field this season. However, to watch their Super Bowl Champion play for another team when it didn’t have to happen? “Nowlins” would riot.

Another factor to be considered is the new and improved Washington Redskins.  Having RG3 come into town for his first professional football game and winning would not look good for them. This should be their primary worry. A loss at home against a team who has had their fair share of hype this off season would make the Saints look unstable without Payton at the helm.

It would also make all the investments the Redskins have made look spot on.

So yeah, RG3 vs. Drew Brees? It’ll happen.

Ricky Allen is a Washington Redskins Blogger with Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @UltimateRedskin

Now here’s a man who redefined what it meant to be a Redskin.  Monk was part of three Redskin Super Bowl teams. The former wide receiver from Syracuse holds the school record for most receptions in a game with 14, against Navy in 1977.

But it will be his Redskin presence that will be remembered most.

When you look at his receiving stats in comparison to what we had last season, they don’t even compare.  What Art Monk called an off night we would call a great game nowadays. However, his stats are something special:

• 1984: 106 catches for 1,372 yards.
• 1985: 91 catches for 1,226 yards.
• 1986: 73 catches for 1,078 yards.
• 1989: 86 catches for 1,186 yards.
• 1991: 71 catches for 1,049 yards.

This is just a snippet of Monk’s contributions. In total, Monk had 940 catches for 12, 721 yards, averaging 13.5 yards and 68 touchdowns.

However all is not well for the Redskins veteran. According to reports he suffers short term memory loss, speech issues and headaches. He’s also a lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against the NFL for their alleged failure to protect players from experiencing concussions.  While I do sympathize with Monk, I cannot believe I’m saying this, but I have to agree with the Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler.  When it came to the lawsuits, Cutler said, “You know, I signed up to play football. I understand that. I understand you’re going to take hits, you’re going to get beat up.” Hopefully Art will get the help he needs to deal with his ailments.

In the end though,the excitement he brought to the Redskins Nation will always be a “Work of Art”.

Ricky Allen is a Washington Redskins Blogger with Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @UltimateRedskin

As a columnist it’s my duty to address both sides of any situation. However, as a Die Hard Redskins fan, it’s easy to be a tad bias. It’s like having a child that plays sports – you’re always going to be bias towards him or her. So, I’ve started a series called “Impartial Judgment.” In these series, I’ll have a chance to break down the positives and negatives, with the intent to be a straight shooter providing unbiased opinions.

Washington has four running backs fighting for a spot on the 53 man roster. Three are likely to be selected, and with Alfred Morris being Washington’s 6th round 2012 draft pick, the final three may not be so obvious. Along with Morris are two 2nd year players, Roy Helu Jr. and Evan Royster. In 2011, Tim Hightower entered the season as Washington’s starting running back, tallying up 321 yards on 84 carries with one touchdown and 78 receiving yards, scoring once. In Week 7, Tim Hightower tore his ACL in the 2nd quarter, after having his best game of the season. Hightower was nagged by minor injuries, which he kept quiet about early in the season. It was apparent in his play, as he didn’t have the start most anticipated after flashing great ability in the pre-season.

With Hightower out, Roy Helu emerged as a legit starter, posting three straight 100 yard games – Weeks 12, 13, and 14. Helu accumulated 640 yards on 151 carries with one touchdown, and 379 yards on 49 receptions and a TD. Roy Helu seems to be the obvious player who will benefit most from the dual threat of  Robert Griffin III, as he’s big play waiting to happen. However, Helu’s pass protection needs fine tuning, and he seems to be the perfect complement – not main course.

Evan Royster was called up from practice squad and active for the final 6 games of the season. He flashed promise in the last two weeks of the season, posting consecutive 100 yard games. Royster had 328 yards on 56 carries, and 68 yards on 9 receptions. Much like Roy Helu, he needs to improve on pass protection. However, compared to Helu, he seems to be more of a “main course” guy than a complement.

Washington’s backfield is full of potential, but potential doesn’t always equate to production. On the surface, Washington doesn’t have a legit starter at the running back position. It’s a position that is done by committee around the NFL. There are only a handful of legit starters in the league, but that hasn’t hurt teams like the New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers.

Mike Shanahan typically rides the hot hand. However, he feels that Tim Hightower is the most complete back on the roster. He’s a guy that Shanahan can trust in pass protection, as well as the passing and running game. For Helu, Royster, and Alfred Morris, it comes down to pass protection and the ability to catch the football. All of those guys have no problem locating a hole, cutting back, and gaining yards. Pass protection is key.

Washington’s rookie running back, Alfred Morris prides himself on pass protection. He’s a guy that can also play special teams, which may be important for that 3rd slotted back. If Morris can prove he has soft hands, and successfully displays the attributes he’s touted for – don’t be surprised if he sneaks his way on the 53 man roster. Now, he is a 6th round rookie, and obviously he has a lot to fine tune. But he and Royster are likely to battle for a spot on the final roster. Mike Shanahan could stash Morris on the practice squad, before deciding to pull him out his back pocket – which is something he’s often done.

In my opinion, Helu should be used much like the Kansas City Chiefs utilize Jammal Charles. Though Jammal has been their most productive back prior to his season ending injury last year, he’s never been considered their starter. He’s a great change of pace back that will take advantage of the opportunities given to him. That’s a role, I believe Roy Helu Jr. would shine in. Especially with RG3 posing a threat to defenses, Helu on those pitch-out run plays could be lethal.

Tim Hightower is an overachiever. He’s not fast and doesn’t do anything extremely great, but you know what you’re getting from Tim. He does everything well and will provide additional leadership to the offense. Hightower has never been the main guy, even in his days with the Arizona Cardinals. He’s always been a complement. So the question is worth asking, can this guy be the main course? He has to stay healthy, and let’s not forget, he’s struggled holding on to the football. However, as the vet and most complete back Washington has, he’ll likely be the starter.

The Redskins are hanging their hat on potential at the running back position. It’s a common theme with this regime, and recent history suggest that the staff knows what they’re doing. Mike Shanahan typically has success with his running backs. So whoever starts, it really won’t matter – cumulative production is all that needs to be worried about.

If you enjoy talking Washington Redskins and all things NFL follow Rantsports.com Redskins columnist, Emmanual Benton on Twitter:  Follow @Roccoskins
//

This is round two for Hightower, who played in five games for the Redskins last season. He carried the ball 84 times for 321 yards and one touchdown and made 10 catches for 78 yards and one touchdown. However, with a torn ACL in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers, he was out for the season.

For Hightower, this season will go one of two ways: Star-studded, or humbling.  He returns to a roster that saw a great performance from two up and coming running backs: Roy Helu and Evan Royster.

Last season, Helu finished strong with 100-yard games in Week 13 and 14, complimenting Royster’s 100-yard games Weeks 16 and 17.

This is where you’ve got to ask the question of where Hightower fits on the depth chart. Will he be a mentor? Or will he be a playmaker?

Evan Royster and Roy Helu have both earned their place in starting, don’t get me wrong. However, I would rather see Royster take the lead this season. He’s moving the ball at least 5 yards a carry and has a mean two-step. Be sure to make a note of that when you watch him cut up the middle. You will also notice that Royster doesn’t need a huge hole in the middle to make it happen: He only needs 2 seconds worth. Helu, on the other hand has a wonderful turnaround when he’s playing off the ball. He makes solid catches, and is a great option when you want power after reception. He’s also wonderful at getting to that first down marker, and plays the outside like a veteran. Still, Royster deserves the start.

This trifecta of backs could be the NFL’s “Three The Hard Way” if orchestrated right. I’ve been a fan of all three men for quite a while.  This is what stability looks like in the backfield.  When you add the running ability of Robert Griffin III, a panic button should probably be installed on the visiting team’s side.

But I don’t think we’re going to see a case of Michael Vick 2.0. This is a quarterback that doesn’t mind airing the ball out. People are going to work this season, and should be prepared to do so.

I'm baaaaaaaack http://t.co/9qG4TDTB

May 13, 2012 7:47 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@Tim_Hightower

Tim Hightower

As reported a few weeks ago, Hightower and Washington maintained interest in getting deal done, even after Hightower visited the New England Patriots in April.

Tim Hightower, 26, is a player Mike Shanahan covets and believes can be a starter for the team. Washington acquired Hightower from the Arizona Cardinals in 2011, trading Vonnie Holiday and a 2012 sixth round pick.

The DC native is enthused about the direction Washington is headed in and wants to be a major part of it. Tim Hightower opened the season as Washington’s starting running back, and accumulated 321 yards on 84 carries with one touchdown. The running back also had 78 receiving yards and one touchdown. Hightower was having maybe his best game of the season with 88 yards on 17 carries before tearing his ACL in the 2nd quarter. It was indeed a blow for Hightower, but he’s now close to full recovery and has been doing on-field workouts for nearly two months now.

Tim Hightower’s blocking ability, decisive running style, and leadership skills is what sets him apart. The Redskins need Hightower to help bring along their rookie QB, Robert Griffin III. With Hightower, Roy Helu and company, the Redskins will have a formidable backfield. I’m excited and pleased to know Hightower is back home. He’s a perfect fit in Mike Shanahan’s one-cut scheme, and I believe could be the Washington Redskins comeback player of the year.

If you enjoy talking Washington Redskins and all things NFL follow Rantsports.com Redskins columnist, Emmanual Benton on Twitter:  Follow @roccoskins
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“In honor of 80 years of rich tradition this anniversary uniform displays our heritage” said Daniel M. Snyder.  “We hope that it will bring back great memories to our fans.”

Here’s some of the best pictures displaying Washington’s fresh Old School Uniforms:

The #Redskins 80th anniversary uniforms http://t.co/2jGtsOqu

May 10, 2012 4:52 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@SkyKerstein

Sky Kerstein

Close up of #Redskins 80th Anniversary Uniform http://t.co/dUjqPiwB

May 10, 2012 5:06 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@SkyKerstein

Sky Kerstein

#Redskins 80th Anniversary helmets http://t.co/YP16z1DR

May 10, 2012 5:07 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@SkyKerstein

Sky Kerstein

Real close up of the #Redskins Anniversary helmet with the "leather" look http://t.co/76OzK0LW

May 10, 2012 5:23 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@SkyKerstein

Sky Kerstein

The collar of the #Redskins 80th Anniversary uniform http://t.co/cHRpySm1

May 10, 2012 5:26 pm via Camera on iOSReplyRetweetFavorite

@SkyKerstein

Sky Kerstein

Redskins’ owner Dan Snyder and his staff worked closely with Nike to create a look that spoke to the club’s unique heritage, while highlighting several key details that helped define the team’s history.

The helmet features a unique leather-like finish and the words “Team, Effort, Tradition” are embroidered on the inside of the neckline, serving as a reminder to each athlete of what it means to be a Redskin.

Much like all Elite 51 Nike Jerseys, Washington’s 80th Anniversary Uni’s are designed and engineered from the inside out. The new uniform focuses on creating a system where the baselayer, padding, jersey and pant work in concert.

Lightweight padding is also integrated directly into the crucial “hit zones” in the baselayer.

New innovations include – Flywire technology in the neckline, reducing weight and providing a lockdown fit over pads. As well as, increasing sleeve articulation for better range of motion, and integrating new four-way stretch fabrication to provide a streamlined shrink-wrap fit.

The hearing will likely focus on the motion to dismiss the NFL’s filed response to the grievance, which contends that the NFLPA agreement to the cap penalties prevents the teams from attacking it.

This is an issue that probably won’t be resolved any time soon, as a second hearing could take place if/when Special Master Stephen Burbank allows the grievance to proceed.

Of course, this situation not only upsets the teams involved, but the fans as well. The NFL/NFLPA seemingly decided to make an example out of two of football’s most valuable franchises. There’s no proof of any rules distributed during the uncapped season, because it was uncapped. They’re leveling the Cowboys and Redskins for apparent front loaded contracts to Dallas WR, Miles Austin and former Redskins DT, Albert Haynesworth. Both contracts were approved by the NFL, but as Cowboys Owner, Jerry Jones noted – this is a complicated issue.

Here’s a statement released by Redskins Executive Vice President and General Manager, Bruce Allen:

“The Washington Redskins have received no written documentation from the NFL concerning adjustments to the team salary cap in 2012 as reported in various media outlets. Every contract entered into by the club during the applicable periods complied with the 2010 and 2011 collective bargaining agreements and, in fact, were approved by the NFL commissioner’s office.”

We’ll keep you updated on any new information released today.

If you enjoy talking Washington Redskins and all things NFL follow Rantsports.com Redskins columnist, Emmanual Benton on Twitter: Follow @Roccoskins

In the past couple of years the NFC East, along with the rest of the National Football League has taken pop shots at the Redskins over the years. From enduring the Jim Zorn era, to watching Jason Campbell to Donovan McNabb to Rex Grossman and down to John Beck at times, it seemed there was a joke around every corner.

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The lack of stability led to even more questions and jeers each week as the country watched as one of the most storied franchises in the NFL were becoming laughable.

The Redskins were the “50 Cent” of the NFL: Causing chaos just to stay relevant.

Take DeAngelo Hall’s comments about Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo as an example. In Week 3, Romo was playing with a broken rib and pain injections.  The storyline was Rocky-like, which made the Redskins 16-18 loss even worse, but epic for him.

Hall said, “… I want to get a chance to put my helmet on whatever’s hurt…Romo’s ribs — I’m going to be asking for some corner blitzes. If I know Felix Jones’ shoulder’s hurt, I’m not going to cut him. I’m definitely going to try to hit him up high, so that’s just part of it…If you know something’s wrong with an opponent, you’re going to try to target in on that. We’re going to try to definitely get as many hits on that team as possible.”

This year, comments like these will be unnecessary. This is a new season, with new goals that overshadow desperation comments such as those mentioned above.  So when they speak about the Washington Redskins now, yeah, people sit up and take notice. I wouldn’t be surprised if opposing fans in the NFC East are wearing RG3 or Kirk Cousins Jerseys.

They want to watch this movie. They need to watch this movie. Why? Because everyone is anticipating two things: The first game, and the last snap of the 2012 season.  The NFC East shouldn’t fear the Redskins—they should take them seriously.

Ricky Allen is a Washington Redskins Blogger for Rant Sports. Follow Ricky on Twitter @UltimateRedskin

 ”I’m the CEO of Griffin Enterprises. It’s my job to go sell my product.”

I guess he wasn’t joking with that statement. RG3 hired an attorney and designed his own company, Thr3escompany, LLC, submitting applications to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for a total of four trade marks –  RG3, RGIII, Robert Griffin III, and Unbelievably Believable. Unfortunately, a ton of sites are selling RG3 products, and have done so well before he even became a member of the Washington Redskins.

Griffin trademarking his name isn’t much of a shocker… I mean, it is his name and it’s pretty famous now. What initially makes you scratch your head is, why did Griffin trademark “Unbelievably Believable?”

“This is unbelievably believable.  It’s unbelievable because in the moment we’re all amazed when great things happen. But it’s believable because great things don’t happen without hard work.”

RG3 made that statement at the Heisman Trophy Ceremony and it created a lot of buzz. So, much like Chad Ochocinco’s fiance’ and Basketball Wives reality TV star, Evelyn Lozada, who’s trademarked a ton of her unique sayings – RG3 made a solid business decision by trademarking his. Griffin plans on using the phrase for promoting the goods and services of others, sponsorship of sports, athletic events, and activities.

Of course, Robert Griffin III has a post football dream of becoming an attorney or agent himself. Decisions like this proves how intelligent he is. I just feel bad for those who’ve created and distributed merchandise with his name…

If you enjoy talking Washington Redskins and all things NFL follow Rantsports.com Redskins columnist, Emmanual Benton on Twitter: Follow @Roccoskins
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There was no reason to wait.

To invest as much as the Washington Redskins have in acquiring the second round draft pick that landed RG3 and not have him as the starter would have left us all scratching our heads. While it may have been common sense, it needed to be publicly said.  The importance of getting the word out became more prevalent with the pickup of Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins.

If there were any worries or concerns, those issues would have been revealed at the Scouting Combine.

This is where the mindset of Mike Shanahan makes Donovan McNabb look stupid.   McNabb stated RG3 would never be able to match up with the Shanahan system of football. Mike Shanahan has not only made RG3 the starter but has also said this: “We’re going to adjust our system to what he feels comfortable with, and we’ll watch him grow, and we’ll do what we feel like he does the best.”

Shanahan knows he doesn’t have the time, the money, or the seasons to waste.  He knows that no one wants to see some pointless quarterback competition: He’s not dealing with Rex Grossman and John Beck. He’s dealing with the future of the franchise.

Let’s just be honest with ourselves-What would we all think if we saw RG3 benched? If that happens, it’s because of RG3’s performance, nothing else. However, to show some confidence in Shanahan’s coaching, he did pick RG3 for a reason, and we should all remember that.

Ricky Allen is a Washington Redskins Blogger with Rant Sports. You can follow him on Twitter  @UltimateRedskin