The Redskins may be worried, correctly, about their offensive line [yet again], but the defensive line right now is a source of pride rather than concern.
The addition of Haynesworth and Orakpo, both of whom are expected to make major contributions this season, as well as the re-signing of Phillip Daniels and return of proven veterans such as Andre Carter and Cornelius Griffin, indicates the possibility for major production from a unit that has been criticized in recent years for its inability to get to the quarterback.
At the same time, the potential of the players entering off the bench — including Anthony Montgomery, Lorenzo Alexander, Renaldo Wynn and Kedric Golston — has players excited about a unit not lacking in talent, or experience.
Of the eight linemen listed on the first- and second-teams on the Redskins’ depth chart, all have started at least one game, while five have started more than 70.
“We’re going to be as good as we want to be,” Daniels said. “We’re going to be a dominating line [that] when you get on the field you make people fear you.”
Zorn’s comments have been embraced by several players, and the entire team has reacted with a week of up-tempo practices that have included fewer mistakes, fewer turnovers and more trash talking.
“The point got across, and you can tell by the week of practice,” receiver Antwaan Randle El said. “It’s hot, but guys have gone full speed and haven’t let up.”
Said kick returner Rock Cartwright: “He thought that’s what we needed, and we have picked it up.”
“I’ve seen him continue to come on,” Zorn said of Kelly. “He’s catching the ball very well. He’s getting better at his route running, which is one of the things he’s been behind because of all of the rehabbing. And virtually, he’s been rehabbing all summer. So that part is improving and that’s where he’s getting up to speed and becoming more and more confident in what he’s going to do on the field.”
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