Friday, July 31, 2009

News and Notes from Redskins Training Camp

It was day two of Redskins training camp today in Ashburn, VA and needless to say the most welcome sight -- other than first round pick Brian Orakpo -- was the clouds and rain that cooled us off from yesterdays scorching 90 plus degree weather.

News & Notes: Brought to you by an unbiased and non politically correct observer of the game.

LaRon Landry: The third year veteran was one of the last to leave the practice field, "I'm definitely more comfortable out there, a lot of pressure, but less stress than my first time on the field."

Landry said he enjoys being a leader out there, he's there to help the young guys learn the game -- just like the older veterans are there to help him learn. "These guys out there are a big help to me, just like I'm a big help to them."

The former first-round pick discussed the pressure of being selected 6th overall was enormous at first, "you come out here and you feel you have to prove something to your teammates, coaches, and the fans." However, things have changed since then "I've calmed down, still have a lot to learn, but I'm calmer and more read now."

Landry looked like a polished veteran staing on the field discussing coverages with 2nd year safety Chris Horton who was beat on five consecutive single coverage drills.

Interesting sidenote, Laron plays with a piercing in his bottom right lip -- might not be the most hip fashion statement but -- "it doesn't cause me any trouble," Landry Says.

Jeremy Jarmon: I caught up with rookie defensive end Jeremy Jarmon after the morning practice, one in which he got his first taste of NFL life when OT Mike Williams put him on his backside. "An old coach of mine always told me it's not the speed of the game that matters, but the speed of your mind"

The 3rd supplemental pick joked about being handled by a veteran tackle, but said "I feel good, it's great to be playing football and great to be here."

Jarmon looked like a rookie at points -- having to go through some drills twice -- but the young guy looks like he has the build to stick around in D.C.

Jason Campbell: For the second straight day Campbell walked out to the loudest ovation (folks it wasn't even close) as the fans chanted CAMPBELL! CAMPBELL! The QB pumped his fist -- visibly happy to have the support of the fans -- at least for now.

Devin Thomas: The former Spartan didn't live up to his hype in his rookie campagin, catching only 15 balls for 12o yards -- but trust me when I say that is all about to change.

The Skins want to use Randle El in the slot (that's been "the plan" since he came to D.C. in 2006) and Thomas is the leading candidate to be the compliment to Santana Moss.

Keep your eyes peeled folks, this guy is the real deal, I'm yet to see him drop a pass in two full days.

Brian Orakpo: The 13th overall pick showed up after a one day hiatus, but it didn't take long for the hybrid defensive end and linebacker to suffer his first NFL "boo-boo" Orakpo was being stretched out with the athletic trainer about thirty minutes into practice.

Th next LaVar Arrington??

Quarterback Controversy?:
Todd Collins looks old, and Colt Brennan looks young and fly with his sweet Oakley visor. Brennan's arm is stronger and might be the best overall arm in camp. Collins struggled hitting his fly routes -- missing wide open Roydell Williams and Marko Mitchell's on consecutive routes.

Don't be surprised to hear if (and in my opinion when) Brennan takes over as Campbell's backup sometime before the season starts.

Chase Daniels looks like he's grasping the system quickly -- but his size, listed as a generous six feet flat -- and being the new guy behind three veterans will all be working against him

Inclement Weather and Tomorrow: The hurricane like weather cancelled the scheduled practice of the day, but to the relief of the players -- who will be putting on the pads and going live for the first time since last January.

Regular practice will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a special teams only practice at 2 p.m. -- however only the morning session is open to the public -- gates open at 7:30


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