NFL 2010 Preview: Washington Redskins

The Redskins will be better in 2010 but don’t expect a playoff push in Mike Shanahan’s first year as head coach.

Off-season changes
Washington made noticeable upgrades at its three most important positions following a disastrous 2009 season. Donovan McNabb replaces Jason Campbell as the Redskins’ starting quarterback while Mike Shanahan takes over as head coach and Bruce Allen is the franchise’s new General Manager.

The running game gained two big names in Larry Johnson and Willie Parker but both have plenty of miles on the clock. Parker hasn’t performed well in pre-season and might be cut this weekend; NFL betting fans should pay close attention to Washington’s decision on the former Steeler. In Shanahan’s system whoever survives, along with incumbent starter Clinton Portis, should be able to improve Washington’s ground game. Jammal Brown, acquired via trade with the Saints, and Trent Williams, the Redskins’ first round draft pick, are both upgrades at the offensive tackle positions.

Mark your calendar
Donovan McNabb wasn’t exactly thrilled at the way he was rushed out of town after 10 years of service with the Eagles. No doubt the former Philadelphia quarterback will have vengeance on his mind when the Redskins visit Lincoln Financial Field in week 4 and again for the return game in week 10.

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The road schedule is kind to the Redskins in 2010, with a trip to Tennessee in week 11 likely to be the toughest non-divisional road game on their slate. Washington faces plenty of tough tests at home with visits from Houston, Green Bay, Indianapolis, and Minnesota.

The verdict
There is no denying that McNabb represents an upgrade at quarterback. The former Eagle is however entering an unfamiliar system with a less talented receiving corps than the one he worked with in Philadelphia. The improvements to the run game should make it easier for McNabb to get the most out of the limited resources at his disposal. The defense remains stout but a lot rests on Albert Haynesworth adapting to the new 3-4 system introduced by Jim Haslett. Haynesworth has phenomenal talent but is tough to motivate. All these question marks mean it won’t be a worst-to-first season for Washington but I still like this team to do better than last year’s 4-12 record. The changes made are good for a two or three win improvement this season. I like the Redskins to go 6-10 or 7-9 this season.