If the Washington Redskins want to improve upon a mediocre 8-8 2008 campaign then they'll need to start up front with the offensive line.
Strong play in the trenches was rarely witnessed last year as the Redskins' collection of blockers proved too old and injury prone.
The line gave up 38 sacks, which tied for the fourth most in the NFL last season. That number must be reduced if the 'Skins want to sniff the play-offs.
As far as run blocking is concerned, the chemistry of the offensive line really makes the going easier for Clinton Portis, but the running game regressed as the 2008 season wore on partly due to breakdowns in the blocking scheme.
The new addition to the starting offensive line is left guard Derrick Dockery. Dockery was originally a Redskin, but left for Buffalo [...]
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Jon Jansen's release from the Washington Redskins brings the end of an era. Granted, it wasn't the golden age of football for Washington, not even close to it, but Jansen represents the hard work and work ethic that fans see year after year from the offensive line here.
In DC, we treasure the guys who will put their noses in the dirt and play tough in the trenches. Jansen was the prototypical "Hog." He played at a high level from his rookie year in 1999 all the way to 2007 despite numerous injuries that would have derailed many other players' careers.
He tore an achilles, broke a leg, dislocated an ankle; two season-ending injuries. He played a full season with both his thumbs in casts, and managed to play one game with a torn calf.
That's the kind of blue-collar play the 'Skins [...]
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By Jack Anderson
Strong offensive line play is usually something which the Washington Redskins excel in. However, after last year's letdown in the trenches, the 'Skins might want to renovate their aging starters.
Derrick Dockery was brought back into the fold through free agency. His return will help the line's interior which struggled to open up rushing lanes for Clinton Portis during the second half of last season. Dockery will replace Pete Kendall at left guard, but one move won't be enough.
In fact, the biggest weakness along the O-line is the right tackle position where Jon Jansen showed he has little left in the tank. Stephon Heyer struggled to fill in when he wasn't beset with injuries and the issues at RT were evident.
Center Casey Rabach had a [...]
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