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The Washington Redskins will move south for the summer beginning on Thursday July 25th, but the real work is in the process of being completed now.

Not that a roster of 90 guys won't be working hard under the boiling sun that downtown Richmond, Virginia is sure to bring, but in order for that to happen a facility must be built. A "Field of Dreams" as Redskins General Manager & Executive Vice President Bruce Allen called it.

Construction officially began on January 9th at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center at 2401 West Leigh Street, not far away from the Richmond Squirrels minor league baseball stadium and right off the Boulevard exit and I-95. It's nestled right by Children's Museum of Richmond and the Science Museum.

It's scheduled to be completed by June 30th, and features a main facility building for multiple uses, along  with a 92 player locker room and a premier workout facility that will be used throughout the year, but specifically designed for the Redskins.

During a hard-hat tour on Monday afternoon, the Redskins and city officials made it clear that while work still had to be done -- it won't ruin the good feelings and the real purpose (they say) of going away to training camp.

"Being in the same hotel together, living with each other. It's no different than what the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts do from the very beginning. It creates a special bond. It's not a secret or coincidence that only four Super Bowl winners haven't gone away for training camp. There's a special uniqueness and camraderie that you can  build," Bruce Allen said.

Allen mentioned that the facility might be so state-of-the-art and new that the players won't have to endure some of the unique challenges that a off-site training camp might bring.

"We knew what we needed at this training camp, for this limited time. It's actually going to be  a little bit nicer because it's brand new than you probably would want. You like the idea that training camp is a  tough time.  That's where a little bit of suffering is going on in order to  succeed later on in life," Allen said to reporters.

The facility has two full-size natural grass fields and a natural grass drill field, with the sod (which normally takes 6-8 weeks to fully hold) put in to place last week.  Allen said a key component was making the fields the same as they are at FedExField and Redskins Park, because the crown affects how key components of a offense work together.

"That's all part of home-field advantage. You want your players to understand the surface they're playing on. Crowns vary in the league. It allows your receivers and your quarterback to understand the timing of the same type of crown." We detailed the improvements that are being made to FedExField in our entry here http://redskins.espn980.com/bloggers/chris-russell/item/852-fedex-field-gets-fixed.

As for who will be here and when?? The Redskins open up training camp in just over two months and while Robert Griffin III will be present, there is obviously no guarantee that he will be able to participate in practice.

Allen said that they won't know Griffin's ability to participate until he takes a physical  saying it is "too early to tell" if he will on the field from the start, but that currently "he's been doing a lot of drill work on his own and with the other injured players. He has to just  follow the doctor's and the trainer's advice on a daily basis."

The real issue seems to be a perplexing one. What does the General Manager of the team get his star quarterback, who he traded a boatload of picks for, when that star quarterback has a very public wedding registry http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/wp/2013/05/20/stephen-a-smith-blames-rgiiis-fiancee-rebecca-liddicoat-for-gift-controversy/ and it becomes a source of national debate?

"My wife will select that. Unfortunatly, I think it's going to be something nice," Allen said in a joking manner (I think).  He also added that he didn't think he was going to be asked about the mini-drama, saying he thought "it was going to be about when's "RG 4"  come out or something like that."

Well OK then, Bruce. That's all I can say about that.  

Chris Russell / SFTheRooster@Yahoo.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980  

For many, March is all about college hoops. It's always been a month that has been terribly overrated in my eyes, at least if you like high quality offense instead of being 'offended' by the choppy product that swallows up the nation's focus.

For an NFL die-hard, March is just an insane month. For somebody who covers an NFL team that never stops making news, it is pure un-adulterated mayhem.

The Redskins have so many issues and questions heading into free agency, the new league year and the annual draft - so we will cover as many as we can.

1. What impact will London Fletcher's situation have moving forward?

The captain of the defense has been largely un-committal about playing in 2013, since his post game comments following the Seattle playoff loss. He told longtime Redskins reporter David Elfin http://cbsloc.al/ZqUzIa  that he was having surgery today on his ankle and later this month on his elbow to try and play this upcoming season, saying to Elfin, "Surgery is the first step towards prepping for next season.”

Fletcher confirmed the news via his own twitter saying  " @LFletcher59 Surgery went great...thanks for all the well wishes! Prep begins now for season 16!#Monster216 #HTTR."

So you have that cleared up, but unless I am missing something, there is no guarantee that he will be able to play at a high enough level in his mind to go through the rigors of a long season.

The other issue and perhaps the one of greatest significance, is do the Redskins feel he will able to play at a high enough level to keep him on the roster next Tuesday at a cost of about 6.2 million under the team's strapped cap? The decision does not actually have to be made on Tuesday or before, as the Redskins can simply cut or re-structure other contracts to get under the mandated league number by 4 PM Tuesday, but the question has to be asked.

The Redskins are roughly 3 million over, and facing a potential loss of  their special teams captain, Lorenzo Alexander, a deadly weapon (when on the field) in tight end, Fred Davis and perhaps 2/5th of their starting offensive line. Not to mention, several key contributors and starters like Logan Paulsen, Darrel Young and Rob Jackson are restricted free agents.

Washington would only save an estimated 3.4 million by letting go of Fletcher before March 12, because of a "dead-money" cap hit of about 2.8 million dollars, as part of the 3.5 million dollar guaranteed bonus Fletcher received last year. Still for a team that is  being unfairly punished by the NFL, that 3.4 million might be a saving grace.

Don't get me wrong, they have a lot of other work to do to free up enough space to give them operating room for tendering & signing restricted free agents, and perhaps making a push to bring back some of their unrestricted free agents, but here's the 3.4 million dollar question....How much would that saving help the big picture?

Would it keep Lorenzo Alexander in DC? Is there anyway to cut Fletcher now, under the premise that you will bring him back on a much smaller base salary than his currently scheduled 5.5 million? I think you can try that, but unless Fletcher agrees to that pre-arranged deal, it is a large risk.

Or can you keep Fletcher for now, absorbing the 6.2 million figure while giving his body time to heal and buying more time. That plan would allow you to not only see what your other options are, but also set up a situation that if Fletcher decides to retire after June 1st,  the Redskins would save not only the 5.5 million in base salary, but the dead-money hit would only be 700,00 this year and 2.1 million in 2014.

So many questions and clearly not enough answers. My money is on the Redskins holding on to Fletcher through the league year deadline and working other contracts to buy cap room. That's only a guess, as the team is as tight-lipped as any sports organization can get (which makes my life incredibly harder) but I just don't know how you can sacrifice a lot of what you are about, for 3 million dollars worth of space.

2. Will Santana Moss and DeAngelo Hall be released or have their contracts slashed instead of re-structuring?

Hall is a relatively easy contract to work with. He is on the books for 7.5 million in base salary with a workout bonus of 50 K. His contract for 2014 calls for a 9 million dollar base salary, with the same workout bonus.

Hall said at the end of the year, that he wanted to stay in Washington  and would be willing to essentially take less. However, did that mean a re-structure or an actual pay cut? If the Redskins were to simply re-structure by converting base to bonus, they could save somewhere between 5.5 - 6.5 million. However the guaranteed money would then have to be split in terms of amortization over this year and 2014, which is not something I would want to do on a contract that currently has no dead money.

I would ask Hall to take a pay cut from 7.5 to 2.5 million this year, while worrying about next year when you have to (next year) and save 5.0 million dollars under the 2013 cap.  If he doesn't accept that, sorry DeAngelo but goodbye and then the Redskins would save 7.5 million and perhaps the full 8.0 depending on how the actual calculation of the bonus is interpreted.

The problem with that plan, cornerback is a much bigger position of need for the Redskins than wide receiver is and Hall is a valuable member of the unit, despite some of his inconsistency. He's an even more important member of the defense, because Josh Wilson struggled last year, while Cedric Griffin is an unrestricted free agent. Combine that with the uncertainty at safety, and you have a key necessary ingredient  in Hall to 2013. Is he even more important to the defense than retaining Fletcher or Alexander? Most would scoff, but I am not asking that question for no reason.

Which brings us to Moss, who led the Redskins in touchdown receptions last year, with 8 along with 41 catches for 573 yards. Certainly those are not numbers that would traditionally blow anybody's socks off, but considering how prolific the Redskins running attack was and how they were able to spread the ball around to Pierre Garcon, Josh Morgan, Leonard Hankerson, Aldrick Robinson and the tight ends, I don't know if it would be feasible to expect anything more.

Moss will be 34 before the season begins, and counts for about 6.167 million on the Redskins salary cap. He is entering the final year of his deal, so it was very likely that this would be his final year in Washington anyway. If the Redskins were to release Moss, they would save between 4.5 and 5 million dollars worth of cap space, after the dead-money pro-ration of about 1.7 million.

It would seem pretty obvious to me that the Redskins have no other choice, but to exercise this option - despite a potential overall loss to the offense - I believe it would be easier to replace Moss than DeAngelo Hall or even Fletcher.

On a personal note, I hope that it doesn't happen as I've always enjoyed talking to Santana and we have built a good, professional relationship.

3. What impact will new "Senior Executive" A.J. Smith have on the Redskins in 2013?

It's hard to know if he will have any significant impact, but my guess is that for the most part, he can't really hurt. Smith is the only true and pure personnel executive that the Redskins have. Bruce Allen, Eric Shaffer and Mike Shanahan are not known for their expertise in that area. Morocco Brown and Scott Campbell have done a very good job procuring talent in free agency and the draft under the new regime, but they haven't done everything like Smith had to do during his long tenure in San Diego. Brown was a finalist for the Arizona job, so perhaps the Redskins are essentially protecting themselves a bit here.

Essentially, Smith gives them another set of eyes to cross-check and focus on certain areas while hoping that a new challenge revitalizes him a bit, and he can discover somebody like an Eric Weddle, Antonio Gates or Michael Turner.

What will be interesting will be to see what Chargers free agents the Redskins pursue. I don't expect them to be heavily involved this off-season because of all the various issues discussed above, but would Smith put in a good word for CB Antoine Cason, who is only 26 (fits age type) and had 12 interceptions in his five seasons with the Chargers? He's known as a high risk, high reward type of defensive back - but as we outlined with the Hall situation, it is pretty much a desperate need.

Longtime veteran CB Quentin Jammer (San Diego) and former Charger CB Drayton Florence are also veteran free agents who might be less expensive and less risky, because they are on the backside of their careers.

Safety Corey Lynch is also an unrestricted free agent, and while he's listed as a strong safety by most outlets, the word is that he's athletic enough to handle either position. Offensive lineman, Louis Vasquez had a nice year last year on a horrible offensive line, but you would have to think the Chargers are going to make a strong push to retain him.

Smith's son Kyle, is a scout for the Redskins so it probably won't take him a long time to get caught up.

4. Will the Redskins bring back Fred Davis, Lorenzo Alexander, Kory Lichtensteiger or Tyler Polumbus?

Because this is already long, I will try and make this short and sweet. I would say no on Davis, although I know the Redskins would like to see what he could be post surgery.

I am going somehow, someway with a yes on Alexander - although considering every part of the decision  for both sides - I think it's no better than 60/40 that Alexander gets treated fairly and the Redskins are the choice he and his agents make.

Because I believe they will find a way to keep Alexander, and I believe ultimately they will not release Hall or Fletcher....some difficult choices remain. Kory Lichtensteiger is as mentally tough and hard of a grinder as there is. I want to believe he will stay, and I am not sure how other teams value him - but with the Redskins being so tight with cap space, it's hard right now for me to fathom that Lichtensteiger will get a fair offer from Washington. Now will he choose whatever the team offers, if he has nothing better? Sure. Will that be a likely scenario? Probably not.

The Redskins hold Lichtensteiger in high regard, but his knee injury was a major blow to a guy who was quickly becoming a more than reliable force at left guard in 2011. He was solid in 2012, but struggled every day and every week with knee soreness and some element of discomfort. I know the Redskins know that, and with Josh LeRibeus in the fold, it would make sense that they are ready to get cheaper and healthier at the left guard position.

It sucks to have to write that, because I think highly of Kory and his family - but the bottom line business might get in the way of a future partnership.

Polumbus, was on ESPN 980 on Wednesday, which you can listen to right here, http://bit.ly/WLpFZA -  and I will have more on Polumbus later this week - but I believe he is a guy that the Redskins hold in higher regard than the fan base does, which is understandable. Washington does not have an answer right now on the roster, as Maurice Hurt and/or Tom Compton are far from ideal.

Will the recently released Eric Winston (by Kansas City) who was with Kyle Shanahan in Houston, be the answer to Washington's question mark? Only if he is willing to play for a veteran, team friendly deal after making a small fortune by his move to the Chiefs, and while he was with the Texans.

Washington won't be able to afford Andre Smith from the Bengals, Phil Loadholt from the Vikings or Gosder Cherilus from the Lions as some of the top free agent choices  that are available - but with Winston now available - you have to think he would be the only thing that could prevent Polumbus from returning.

5. Is there a surprise cut or release that nobody is really focused on?

The Redskins have some tough choices to make and because they are extremely secretive, a lot of this is pure guesswork. They may have to non-tender a few restricted free agents (Chris Baker?, Nick Sundberg?, Darrel Young?) just to be able to squeeze under the cap by Tuesdays' deadline.

Could we add Rob Jackson to that mix? Or will the Redskins try and work out a long term deal with the young veteran outside linebacker who emerged after Brian Orakpo's season ending Week 2 injury last year? A source close to the situation indicated on Wednesday that the team had not yet approached Jackson about his situation, but both sides could be playing poker. If the Redskins chose not to tender Jackson or any other restricted free agent, they simply become unrestricted - but it would also help the team slip under the cap limit.

Speaking of Orakpo - and I have a hard time believing that I am typing this. Could the Redskins consider letting him go, while bringing Jackson and Alexander back? It might not make sense at first thought, but according to salary database Spotrac.com, Orakpo counts for about 5.10 million under the cap. If the Redskins were to part ways with the former first round pick, they would face a dead money hit of about 2.10 million - but a net cap savings of just about 3 million dollars. It doesn't seem like a whole lot, to give up on such a high draft pick - who at times has lived up to his potential.

However, this is why I don't think you can rule it out. Orakpo suffered his original injury on January 1, 2012 and then re-injured his pec muscle in August and then suffered another tear, in a different area in mid-September. Is there any guarantee that he will ever not be at increased risk for something like that happening again?? That's the obvious part.

What isn't so obvious is this. If the Redskins have a plan in mind moving forward - that they will not sign Orakpo to a large deal when he becomes a free agent for the first time at the end of 2013 - why not move on now (possibly via trade)  & secure Jackson and possibly Alexander? Again, I admit this is an unconventional thought process but SOMEBODY we are not expecting has to be released.

If it's not Fletcher or Hall - who is it? Adam Carriker would be another alternative but the Redskins just re-invested in him last year as a key part of the defensive line. It's not going to be Stephen Bowen or Barry Cofield. It's obviously not Ryan Kerrigan. Josh Wilson?? Possibly, but that seems highly unlikely given the already tenuous state of the secondary.

There's nobody on offense that seems to be a  likely and significant impact on cap savings other than Moss. I don't believe you can re-structure more than 2-3 guys at max per year, which is a lot in my eyes, but you could do this as Rich Tandler suggested http://bit.ly/WS9G1r  OR you could manage your franchise for the now and with one eye on the future.

Just my thoughts - What do you think the Redskins should do as the real "March Madness" begins?

Chris Russell // SFTheRooster@Yahoo.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980

The Redskins are officially a part of the city of Richmond moving forward, as the team and city along with sponsor Bon Secours  had a ceremony to break ground on their new training camp facility near the "Diamond" (baseball stadium) off the Boulevard in the West end area of the capital of the Commonwealth.

The "Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center" was already well under construction when we arrived on Thursday afternoon, and a team official that is highly involved in the construction process told ESPN 980 that the project is well-ahead of schedule and will absolutely be ready for late July.

Mayor Dwight Jones of the city of Richmond, said "we're all in...we're gonna be ready" when I asked if there were any contingency plans for delays in construction.

The real fireworks came after the ceremonial burgundy and gold shovels were discarded. Redskins General Manager and EVP Bruce Allen met with reporters for the first time since the night after the Redskins move to the # 2 overall pick last March became known.

Allen, was as loose and blunt as I've personally ever witnessed. Among the highlights.

Allen on the controversial nickname "Redskins" :

“There’s nothing that we feel is offensive and we’re proud of our history. It’s ludicrous to think that we’re trying to upset anyone....It doesn't make sense."

“We’re not a new franchise, we’re 81 years old," said Allen on Thursday to a group of reporters.  “I’m proud to be the general manager of the Washington Redskins. We represent an iconic sports franchise.”

Allen also relayed a story that the President of the National Congress of American Indians, in conjunction with members of the Red Cloud Athletic Fund, requested in the early 70's that the Redskins change their logo from the "R" to the current logo.

Allen on the Redskins 18 million dollar cap penalty for 2013 :

"I think the penalty was wrong. It's unfair." Allen then seemed to be pretty confident in the Redskins abilities to get some relief, saying "the time is coming."

Allen on Robert Griffin III & do Redskins officials support Adam Schefter's report from earlier Thursday:

"He's progressing well. He's on schedule or ahead of schedule, and it's really because of the work ethic that you know he has. We’re going to let the doctors quote on where they are. I know Dr. James Andrews was hopeful after the surgery. We’ll see how it progresses. This will be an ongoing thing throughout the summer.”

Allen on FedEx Field's surface and if the Redskins have any plans to put field turf in 2013 :

"No. We missed an opportunity last year during a window between the 7th game and the 10th game to re-sod the field. Once the schedule comes out, our people are ready to commit to a schedule so we have some new sod for the end of the year. We think that is going to address the playing field in December, and hopefully, January."

Allen on Trent Williams who was injured in a incident before the Pro Bowl in Hawaii:

"He's fine. He got some stitches from the incident and they've been removed...I will say this, when we heard about it from league officials - they said not only did Trent not do anything wrong, he did everything right. He handled himself with a great professionalism."

Allen on Fred Davis:

"He's progressing well. That's a very serious injury. We expect he'll have a full recovery."

Allen on new Special Teams Coordinator Keith Burns:

"I am excited about Keith Burns. We had him for one year in Tampa. He oozes leadership. He's a committed young man, who I think is going to do great things in the future." Allen also said the WR coaching position is "still open."

Chris Russell / SFTheRooster@Yahoo.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980

Mike Shanahan raised more than a few eyebrows last week at his season ending Monday press conference, for more than just his comments on Robert Griffin III

After the Redskins were dealt what most thought (and probably is) a crippling blow on the eve of free-agency last year, a 36 million dollar league imposed salary cap space penalty(spread over two years), most thought that Washington was doomed for the next several years.

I can’t say that thought, combined with no first round picks in 2013 and 2014 – didn’t cross my mind. However it wasn’t a serious thought in my convoluted brain, because I strongly believe the wrong way to build is through spending boatloads of money. I was and still am much more concerned about missing a few great potential pieces in the first round, especially considering Robert Griffin III’s current injury status.

The Redskins were punished 18.4 million dollars under the 2012 salary cap, and 17.6 million under the 2013 cap, per ESPN 980 sources. So what's the status of that punishment moving forward?

Mike Shanahan repeatedly said last off-season that he would talk about the situation and the Redskins appeal efforts when he was allowed too. Somehow, the question and a follow-up was allowed to expire during the season by the daily Redskins media corps, which I am obviously a member of and nobody from the outside, really made a big deal of it.

There was one exception, ESPN’s Adam Schefter mentioned in early November on ESPN 980 and the “Sports Fix” that the Redskins believed they had a shot at winning the 2013 war and getting some of the cap penalty room back.

During a few conversations I had with executives inside Redskins Park in November and early December, I was told the same thing. I was told by one person, that they felt like they had a really good chance.

It’s one thing to feel that, but what reason do you have for that optimism? That’s the answer that nobody knows. These conversations were informal and obviously not on the record, but I trust those that verified Schefter’s thoughts, and we know where that information is very likely coming from.

Armed with that information, the question had to be asked after all of the Griffin-gate issues were dealt with. In our last availability with Mike Shanahan until April – the head man needed to address this pertinent issue which would directly affect Washington’s free agent plans. Were the Redskins still contesting the penalties, handed down by the NFL and it’s executive council?

“Well, I can’t answer that at this time so that means we’re still involved in it. Yes, we’re still involved in it. When I can speak about it, I will speak. But at this time, I can’t. I think that answers your question,"  Shanahan told me.

So there you go. Now the question is – how will the NFL deal with this continued protest? Do the Redskins really have a shot, or are they just desperate and fighting just to fight. What’s the strategy the Redskins are using?

One person that is familiar with the matter, doesn’t feel as confident as others I’ve talked with. The person candidly said “They fought the good fight. It’s over.”

This person has not changed their stance since the initial arbitration case was rejected by Stephen Burbank in Philadelphia last May.

He says the only thing the Redskins can really do, is file a lawsuit against the National Football League, a strategy the person said was highly unlikely,  “I can’t imagine they would do that.”

The way the Redskins and possibly the Cowboys would go about that, is to file a lawsuit in state or federal court, because the arbitration angle is dead.

The problems associated with a lawsuit of that magnitude is that according to the league’s constitution, the loser of the battle would pay all fees and could be counter-sued for “conduct detrimental to the league.”

The source described a decision to do this as a “thermo-nuclear” choice and strongly suggested that the Redskins avoid that route.

The same person also said that the only way he could think of to make this reversal take place, short of filing a lawsuit – would be to get an amendment to the league’s collective bargaining agreement. How likely is that and getting such a move past key executives like John Mara of the New York Giants? Extremely unlikely in another ESPN 980 sources thought process.

The main source did allow something that I thought was particularly interesting, by saying the NFL “amended the CBA to (bleep) these teams” before, which is why the league’s management committee was able to negotiate a  cut throat deal with the NFLPA, in the person’s eyes.

What makes the issue even harder to fathom, is that the NFLPA collusion suit http://bit.ly/U0oyJk was dismissed recently, so the person who has knowledge of the situation, said the only strategy that he could see  working  is one of “persuasion.”

You might be thinking, Huh? The person said he was aware of the in-house thought by many people close to Commissioner Roger Goodell. He said that many league lieutenants knew how bad the screw-job was, and just how much the NFL had “(bleeped) over” both organizations, but specifically the Redskins.

One possible argument that the Redskins are still fighting was outlined by my friend J.I. Halsell, who is a former salary cap analyst with the Washington Redskins, and now is a player-agent and salary cap analyst with Priority Sports, based out of Chicago. In the interest of full-disclosure, Halsell also served as ESPN 980’s front-office insider for the last few years.

Halsell, long before this was even an issue, was truly a prophet. He wrote this column http://insidethecap.blogspot.com/2010_03_01_archive.html in which he detailed the Redskins creative re-structuring of the Albert Haynesworth and DeAngelo Hall contracts that they were subsequently penalized for.

We all know why the Redskins were penalized, but the most important element of Halsell’s article was that Bruce Allen essentially executed the same exact maneuver in Tampa with offensive lineman, Jeff Faine.

Halsell at the writing of the article, mentioned the dubbed “I-4 Off-Ramp,” as the ‘same device’ as used in the Haynesworth and Hall contracts. Just for clarification, to make sure nothing had changed in Halsell’s understanding of the situation, he confirmed to ESPN 980 on Tuesday that the restructured deals in both Washington and Tampa were “exactly the same.”

The greater point is this. We know that the NFL and the contract division of the league office approved the restructured contracts of both Haynesworth and Hall, as they did with Faine while Allen in charge in Tampa Bay. If they approved all three restructured deals, along with the Cowboys contracts – how is it that ONLY the Redskins and Cowboys were penalized?

Tampa performed such a move while under a salary cap, which has to be the answer from the league – however it was beyond clear that the Bucs were trying to take advantage of the extra room they had under their cap, while also clearing out a ton of space moving forward, in 2009 and in the uncapped year of 2010.

The strategy worked to a large degree, as they had a pirate ship full of money to spend in 2011 and 2012, after performing extremely well with a young, cheap and pared down roster in 2010.

Of course, it would be nice if the league took the time to explain all of this maneuvering, but maybe they don’t – because they always seem to have something to hide.

The person with knowledge said this in parting “It’s really disgusting what the league did to (the Redskins).”

While it may be disgusting, it seems awfully hard to fathom how the Redskins will get some much needed relief.

Chris Russell - SFTheRooster@Yahoo.com - www.twitter.com/russellmania980

"He's the starter. Period,"

That was the somewhat obvious, but completely unexpected statement from Redskins Head Coach/EVP Mike Shanahan on Sunday in front of over 50 members of the media, assembled on a humid late morning/afternoon in Ashburn.

Of course, "he" is Robert Griffin III, and while practically nobody expected him to be the 2nd string in New Orleans as the Redskins open up the 2012 campaign, I figured that Mike Shanahan would do everything he could to push, poke and prod "RG III" with motivation and a good old fashioned 'controversy,' by keeping the competition open publicly or by listing Rex Grossman as No. 1 in the first unofficial depth chart.

That's not happening according to the man that matters most.

"We're going to put him with the first team when we come back … We'll have our first team on one field, working against our second defense, and we'll have our second team on the other field, working against our first defense," Shanahan said on Sunday.

I have to admit I was stunned. Not at the fact that Robert Griffin III was anointed as the starter, but just the timing. It was very unusual for Mike Shanahan to be that bold, that upfront, THIS early.

"I thought it was very important to start with Robert with our first unit. He's able to do it and pick up the system as quick as he has, which is always good, to go out there and be able to call plays and feel good with what you're doing, and I've seen that over the last five practices."

It tells you the obvious desperation of the franchise and management, but also it is a credit to Griffin III that he has caught on so quick.

Shanahan explained "Any time you pick a player with the second pick of the draft and you give up another two No. 1's and No. 2 and you move up four spots, you've got a game plan in mind. 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."

That's all fine and good, that's what every staff does. It is what Mike and Kyle Shanahan did with Donovan McNabb as well.

Despite Donovan's claims, as my colleague Kevin Sheehan points out,  and as we talked about routinely on the air in 2010, the Shanahan's dialed up a lot of screens and the deep ball, accentuating McNabb's skill set.

Just color me surprised. I have attended just about every Mike Shanahan press conference since he became the head man in charge. He is a coach who has been honest with the media about not always being honest with the media. In other words, he has admitted to fibbing, to protect certain things.

I would be astonished if this is nothing but 100% truth, I just didn't expect it. It speaks volumes for the 'intangibles' side of RG III.

His new teammate, offensive lineman Josh LeRibeus told reporters, "it feels like he came in, and already new the damn playbook."

His head coach gushed some more, "He's great. You can see what an incredible athlete he is," Shanahan said of Griffin. "I was impressed with the first day. He didn't have one bust on a formation or a play call, and I've never had that in all the mini camps I've been involved with."

On Monday, I asked General Manager and Executive Vice President, Bruce Allen why the Redskins were so up-front about their plans, which again is extremely unusual.

"We're excited. We feel good about Robert. If we can surround him with proper talent, we'll be OK. We think he's a unique talent. What coach envisions for him, what we think we can do with our offense, we think we can achieve our objectives. The sooner we get too it, the better."

Allen was speaking to a group of reporters at the annual Leukemia and Lymphoma Society charity golf outing, hosted by Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo.

The bottom line is this. If Robert Griffin III was not the starter for Week 1 in New Orleans, it would have been somewhat concerning. If Robert was not listed as the number one starter on the 'public' depth chart in training camp, it would have been a controversy. If Kirk Cousins would have looked better at mini-camps and training camp, it would have been well, unexpected.

Now, the Redskins can just move on without the daily questions about depth charts. For now.

“In order to execute each of our club’s plans for free agency and the upcoming draft, we have agreed to a trade between our two teams for the 2nd pick in the 2012 draft. We will submit this trade to the NFL for approval."

The Redskins made one move to dramatically upgrade their coaching staff and hopefully their disappointing (at times) secondary by hiring former Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach, Raheem Morris on Wednesday night.

The move was first reported by Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, who covered Morris in his time in Tampa, a stint that lasted three years as the top man, and several years over two stints as an assistant. You can read Rick's story here http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/washington-redskins-hire-former-tampa-bay-buccaneers-coach-raheem-morris/1210201.

Morris has a strong familiarity and a connection with Redskins General Manager/Executive Vice President, Bruce Allen who was in a similar role in Tampa Bay, when Morris was an assistant.  He also was on the same staff for one season as Kyle Shanahan before the current Redskins offensive coordinator left for Houston.

With the addition of Morris who will serve as secondary coach (he reportedly has a clause in his contract allowing him to leave for another defensive coordinator position after 2012), the Redskins also released two coaches according to Washington Times/ESPN 980 Redskins Insider Rich Campbell and other sources.

Safeties coach Steve Jackson and Wide Receivers coach  Keenan McCardell were both reportedly let go. The Redskins as is their  normal operating procedure, would not confirm the moves.

ESPN 980 has learned that another coaching staff move is likely to be made on Thursday, but it is not expected to be a major name. Most of the speculation and the logical thinking is that Bob Slowik, the current secondary coach, will be released. However, that is far from absolute and only logical theory.

Slowik and Mike Shanahan have a long time working relationship and are said to be very close still. Would Shanahan fire his friend? Or could the Redskins be making another somewhat unexpected move like McCardell's firing was.

Deciding to let go of Steve Jackson, was not a surprise to anybody. Jackson was a holdover from the previous administration, and the safeties (mostly because of injury) were a big disappointment in 2011, despite the pass defense being improved statistically; as we detailed in this post http://redskins.espn980.com/bloggers/chris-russell/item/386-washington-redskins-2011-vs-2010-statistical-comparison .

The Redskins ranked 13th against the pass, surrendering 221.0 yards a game through the air, a significant change from the 261.7 yards allowed (31st/NFL in 2010).  Defensive backs had only 10 interceptions.

The decision to let go of McCardell after two seasons, is a bit surprising -- despite Santana Moss regressing somewhat significantly, especially after his injury. Anthony Armstrong also struggled in his 2nd year, after coming out great in the season opener, Armstrong suffered a hamstring injury in the Redskins third game (@ Dallas) and was never the same after returning.

Who can forget Mike Shanahan's 'bump coverage' comment about why Armstrong was not getting any opportunities. Who knows, maybe Armstrong could become the Redskins new receivers coach. (Just kidding, AAA).

Despite the struggles of Moss and Armstrong, and with Moss missing essentially five whole games, the Redskins only passed for 140 less yards in 2011 then they did in 2010.

In 2011 - the Redskins attempted 591 passes, had 346 completions (58.5%), 3,773 yards, 235.8 YPG, 19TD's, 24 INT's. In 2010 - the Redskins attempted 605 passes, had 349 completions (57.7%), 3,913 yards, 244.6 YPG, 21 TD's, 19 INT's.

Armstrong, told ESPN 980 late on Wednesday night about McCardell "It's surprising, but it's the business we are in. He will definitely help the next team he is with."

Some possible names to keep in mind for the wide receivers position would be flipping current tight ends coach Sean McVay to the spot he is more of a natural with. He was a college wideout, who worked specifically with the ball catchers last year, before taking over at the tight end spot.

Also, when tapping into Mike Shanahan's past - it would be wise to keep an eye on former UCLA Head Coach, Karl Dorrell and former Denver assistant, Jeremy Bates.

As for the addition of Morris -- his Bucs were a team on the rise at 10-6 last year, and coupled with a fairly strong start this year - a ten game losing streak and his ouster was unimaginable. It happened.

Morris, saw his defense in 2011 (as head coach) allow 6,311 yards (30th/NFL) and 238.4 passing yards per game, which ranked 21st in the league. In 2010, Tampa allowed 5,323 yards (17th/NFL) and 201 passing yards per game, which ranked 7th.

In Morris' first year as the top dog in Tampa, his defense was 27th in the NFL overall (total yards) but was 10th overall in passing yards allowed.

Morris, 35, was the defensive backs coach under Jon Gruden up until he took over for Gruden -- following the 2008 season. In that final year as a position coach, Tampa was FOURTH (187.3) in the NFL in passing yards allowed. In 2007, the Bucs were # 1 in passing yards allowed at 170.5.

Hopefully, I will get a chance to speak with Morris sometime soon and bring those comments to you -- for now -- it is off to chase more changes and moves that will shake up the Redskins.

Chris Russell // RussellC@Redskins.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980 // www.facebook.com (Chris Russell or ESPN 980)

Phillip Buchanon is once again a cornerback for the Washington Redskins. He's about to enter his 2nd year with the team -- but not without drama.

Mike Shanahan announced on Wednesday that the veteran out of the University of Miami -- had been re-signed, which we already knew about. Shanahan then dropped a bomb on us; saying "Obviously we're going to miss him the first four games, but he'll be here for the rest of the season."

Uhh, what? "He was suspended for the first four games. I won't get into details now but it is a setback for us."

Buchanon, 30, said in a statement issued from his publicist, said "I'm excited to return to the Washington Redskins and continue to be part of this great organization.  I look forward to putting the suspension behind me, returning to the field and helping my team."

OK, whatever. This is certainly a blow for the Redskins, who face the Giants, Cardinals, Cowboys and Rams in those first four weeks; and then have a bye weekend.

The Giants will be able to match up Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and other weapons, along with Eli Manning and Ahmad Bradshaw against the Redskins defense, minus Buchanon.

The Cowboys have Dez Bryant, Miles Austin, Jason Witten and presumably Tony Romo. Don't forget about the  Cardinals, who  feature Larry Fitzgerald, Todd Heap and new Quarterback, Kevin Kolb.  The Rams have less weapons in the passing game, but certainly Sam Bradford poses a challenge, after carving up the Redskins secondary last year.

I could be completely wrong here, but Mike Shanahan does absolutely NOTHING without a plan, and for no reason. He didn't have to tell us that Buchanon got popped, he could have told his good friend, Adam Schefter.

Instead he chose to be up-front and mostly honest about it, when not even prompted. He did say "I've always been a big Phillip Buchanon fan," but that could be just some lip gloss. He was not happy about it.

The question that immediately went through my mind was; could it be possible that Shanahan did not want Buchanon back -- because of the suspension, or whatever the reason was -- and yet he was essentially talked in to the plan by other members of management or the scouting staff?

Remember, Buchanon had to come at a sharp discount because of the situation, and the Redskins are all about the smart money these days.`

Could it be that Bruce Allen said 'we could bring back Buchanon and still take a look (maybe sign?) Kelvin Hayden; who visits Redskins Park on Wednesday?'

Maybe it's that Bruce Allen's finger prints are on this organization, more then many of us think? Buchanon was  drafted by Oakland when Allen was an executive under Al Davis.  Buchanon, later joined Allen in Tampa when he was the General Manager of the Buccaneers.

Conveniently, Buchanon was signed by the Redskins in Allen's first year here in DC. Hmmmm. Are you thinking what I am thinking?

Another thing to remember, Shanahan also benched Buchanon, and rightly so -- in New York -- against the Giants, in early December for a porous first half. The reason Shanahan gave; "Because he wasn't playing good enough in the first half, he was benched."

Shanahan heaped praise on Buchanon on Tuesday, before dropping the 'S-bomb,' The context of what he said was genuine, but the comments seemed strangely placed, right in front of basically an announcement saying "Yeah, we re-signed this guy but he's about as useful as Haynesworth was, and can't help us until October."

Is anybody with me on this? The Redskins needed a cornerback -- Mike Shanahan perhaps wanted somebody that would cost some more green -- and Bruce Allen stepped in and said -- I have the perfect guy for you.

Maybe I am nuts and completely  off-base here, but I think this was Shanahan's way of saying "I'm the boss."

What do you think?

Chris Russell // RussellC@Redskins.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980

Bruce Allen, General Manager of the Washington Redskins, will be on The John Thompson Show w/ Doc Walker today on ESPN 980 (980AM / 94.3FM / 92.7FM).

Think about this -- the Washington Redskins -- Week 1 of the NFL season (whenever that is) are able to match-up against Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and Steve Smith of the Giants -- with not only DeAngelo Hall, but the biggest free-agent fish in the pond, Nnamdi Asomugha.

Sounds good -- doesn't it?

However, is it realistic? Can you spend the kind of 'jack' it would take to have Nnamdi Asomugha -- who is considered by many -- the best cornerback in the league, not just in free agency?

All of this, while having not only Hall -- but LaRon Landry and OJ Atogwe all under contract long term, under a salary cap.

Or here is a scenario -- what if bringing in Asomugha costs you Hall or Landry either next year or maybe even this year? Hmmm.

It's possible -- but not very likely, at least for 2011.

Of course, no matter who you bring in at corner,  it might only partially help  the two most identifiable weaknesses on the defensive side of the ball. Pass rush pressure and stopping the run.

Surely, first-round pick Ryan Kerrigan and second-round pick Jarvis Jenkins will go a long way to helping the pass rush issues, but they obviously are both raw and will need some time to develop.

We have no idea -- if they will be able to help stop the at-times porous run defense (Indy, @NYG, Minnesota, Philly). They should, at times, especially Jenkins -- who I would guess will start very early on at right defensive end.

The question then becomes -- Is cornerback truly a huge need?

The jury remains out on that issue. I say it's a huge need, but others disagree -- and I do understand that feeling - but I believe the Redskins need to find a way to counter the dynamic passing games of the New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys - and they have not been able too - at least not yet.

Carlos Rogers is not coming back, that is about as safe a bet as we could make.  Phillip Buchanon is also an unrestricted free agent, who played reasonably well with the exception of certain times.

Kevin Barnes is a player that has emerged, and is now heading in to his third year.  Barnes, for the most part, improved the coverage aspects of his game by route recognition, hard work and by simply being around the game mor

I think Barnes is a better fit for the slot -- at least for 2011, because he gained a pretty good amount of experience in that position last year, when Rogers went down for most of the 2nd half of the season.

He's more physical then fast, while using his frame to bump or re-route receivers -- while also having the skills to blitz off the slot, as Jim Haslett really likes to do.

Other possibilities currently on the Redskins expanded roster are Byron Westbrook and recently drafted Brandyn Thompson.

I don't know about you -- but it sounds like a pretty desperate need.

In my 53-man roster projection that I wrote in  May http://redskins.espn980.com/bloggers/chris-russell/item/60-redskins-fearless-forecast -- I thought it made sense for the Redskins to sign veteran unrestricted CB Ike Taylor from the Steelers, a guy who is familiar with some of the concepts of what Jim Haslett likes to do. Taylor lit up Mark Sanchez of the Jets in the AFC Championship game on that disputed fumble/interception with a blindside blitz from the edge, a play that fueled the Steelers trip to the Super Bowl.

I also projected that the Redskins would sign NT Abrayo Franklin - who would likely require a hefty paycheck - but that maybe Washington could bolster two needs for the price of one (Asomugha).

Clearly neither player has the top-end ability that Asomugha brings, but here's the bigger issue.

If you sign Nnamdi - can you afford to keep DeAngelo Hall beyond the 2011 season?  If the answer is no -- do you determine that you can get a higher value in return by trading DeAngelo to another team now or in other words,  once the lockout is lifted?

Sounds like a crazy question, right? Probably, but maybe not – if you consider a number of different factors. To get the answers – to some of the most logical issues – ESPN 980 contacted a number of different people around the league.

ESPN 980’s Front-Office Insider J.I. Halsell (www.twitter.com/salarycap101) is a salary cap & contract expert – currently working for a sports representation firm in Chicago, Priority Sports, which for full disclosure, does not represent Asomugha or Hall.  He worked previously in the Redskins front office, but has not been employed by the team for two years.

Halsell says by trading Hall now to another team – thirsty for a corner – say the Houston Texans, the Redskins would save approximately 4.5 Million plus in 2011 cash, depending on various factors.

Hall, signed a six-year, $55 million contract. The deal had $22.5 million guaranteed, inluding a $15 million option bonus. According to Rotoworld.com, Hall is on the 2011 books for $4.5 million + a 500,000 bonus. Certainly a manageable number for cornerback with turnover skills. Hall is due to make $6 million in 2012, $7.5 milliion in 2013, and $9 million in 2014.

If you combine that savings, with the projected savings of ‘losing’ Carlos Rogers – the Redskins would save around 10- Million in cash off the player payroll.

That would give the Redskins plenty of space to “structure a deal that makes Asomugha, one of the highest paid (if not, the highest paid) defenders in the league,” according to Halsell.

However, a key dilemma remains. According to Halsell “the challenge for a player in Asomugha who just turned 30  (Carlos Rogers also just turned 30, 4 days apart from Asomugha) is the club would want to structure the deal to mitigate their risk against a potential decline in play as he gets older.”

Asomugha has a clear leverage point, to avoid a “pay-as-you-go” type structure, but that might be the only type of deal the Redskins are willing to do.

Asomugha’s last contract with the Raiders was a shorter deal with a trigger that allowed it void. Halsell, highlighted the free agent market and some interesting information about Asomugha's last deal http://wapo.st/e4b50t when working for the Washington Post.

All of that is great, but can the Redskins afford such a heavy financial investment – with or without Hall in the secondary. There are many issues to consider.

Halsell points out “the Atogwe deal is structured in a club-friendly manner, so it’s not that big of a consideration in a possible deal, short of the cash that would be invested in the secondary.”

The real problem lies with LaRon Landry’s future. He is an unrestricted free agent after the 2011 season. He was an absolute beast in the first 8 games of the Redskins 2010 defense, at strong safety – before an Achilles injury flared up so much that he had to be shut down following the humiliating Eagles Monday Night Football loss.

“That’s the bigger issue,” says Halsell. “If the Redskins are financially committed to Atogwe, Hall and Asomugha, then, from a roster building perspective, it would be difficult to justify another “big purchase’ in the secondary.

Halsell, smartly points out that “unlike cornerback, safety is not a premium position, so the Redskins will have to make a decision as to where they want to invest their money.”

Halsell also says the Redskins need to see more out of Landry, before committing to him. “He hasn’t shown that level of play, for more then 8 games.”

Halsell, was with the Redskins front office when the team extended Chris Cooley, but says it is two different situations. “Chris had proven he was an elite tight-end. You don’t have that certainty with LaRon, and you already signed O.J.”

One other interesting twist to Landry’s future is the possibility of slapping the franchise tag on him at the end of the 2011 season, assuming that designation is still a part of the collective bargaining agreement.

“They could easily franchise him, says Halsell. "The safety ‘tag’ is relatively low. You let it play out. Bruce Allen, Mike Shanahan and Eric Schaffer are all about flexibility."

Joel Segal, a successful NFL agent who represents LaRon Landry told ESPN 980, "LaRon's doing amazingly well. He's excited, and ready to help the Redskins win."

As for Landry's contract that will expire at the end of the upcoming season, Segal says he is "taking one day at a time." Segal obviously is prohibited from talking to Bruce Allen about a contract extension for his client.

Landry is scheduled to make $3.715 million in the final year of his deal.

Another factor to keep in mind, no matter what Bruce Allen and Mike Shanahan decide to do -- is the Redskins smartly created extra  cap flexibility by essentially restructuring Hall’s contract to take advantage of the 2010 uncapped season. He has a tradeable contract, with little or no bonus hit against the cap if they went that route.

Keep in mind, that Hall's value as a 'playmaker' is probably never going to be higher, but every opponent knows that you can attack him. He will make big plays, but also give some up.  Does "Shan-allen" truly value the turnover production over a better coverage blanket?

It's easy to say, just spend money and it will all get better. Redskins fans, know that is not the right course of action.

So would it be a smart football move to bring in Asomugha – or a typical Redskins move? Brian Baldinger of the NFL Network told ESPN - 980; “I think it's both. We've seen this from the Redskins before. It would be a smart move. Anybody that can get him, would be better.”

Baldinger, says a very critical factor for a player like Asomugha is his determination to be with a contender. Asomugha, has made very good money, but comes from a mostly horrific franchise.

“He's buddies with Charles Woodson, what effect does (Charles) going to Green Bay; a contender, have?”

Baldinger, also points out that Asomugha will be looking for ‘not only a team that can contend and win a Super Bowl, but a place where the environment can make me better then I've been.”

“Charles Woodson, the last 3-4 years, he's off the chart good,” says Baldinger who has been covering the league for the last decade plus for NFL Network, FOX & The Sporting News.

“I don’t know if Washington could do that,” Baldinger says. Other league sources that are familiar with Asomugha's thinking concur, and do not believe that the veteran corner would be willing to trust the Redskins future.

How about Asomugha’s skill level? Asomugha just made the turn for 30 – which is gloom and doom for running-backs, but not necessarily defensive backs.

“He is still a great player. His athletic skills have not diminished, and PEOPLE like Nnamdi don’t come around very often. He’s one of the best human being’s that you could ever meet. He’s just a special individual.”

Still, Asomugha is not the best at his position in the NFL; Baldinger warns.

“Darrelle Revis of New York Jets is the best.”

As for the issue of should the Redskins be over aggressive and shake it up right now, by trading Hall for the highest possible value (if the longterm plan is keeping Landry, and signing Asomugha).

"Yeah you could live with that. D-Hall has the interceptions, but he's far from being a top flight corner. If you have to trade him or release him --  yeah -- It's an upgrade. You saw it in Oakland. There's a huge difference.”

Of course, if you trade Hall before the 2011 season, again to get maximum value (likely no higher then a 3rd round pick, but maybe an unheralded player that Shanahan really likes) – you will have to sign another corner.

Could you go Ike Taylor and Asomugha, and really shake it up?

“I don't think he's (Taylor) a top flight CB. Pittsburgh knows that, I think everybody knows that. I don't think anybody believes Ike Taylor, is a top flght CB,” says Baldinger – who also adds “If that's the case, resign Carlos Rogers.”

Asomugha was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 2003 draft with the 31st pick out of the University of California. He played with current Redskins LB Lorenzo Alexander. Asomugha may have been a relative unknown with a interesting name, when he was drafted, but he wasn't to the people that matter.

“A lot of people did know about him. He was a size and speed player. He was a big kid with long arms, he just fit what we did in Oakland. He had size, speed, athleticism and he was tough," says Michael Lombardi of the NFL Network. Lombardi served as a senior personnel executive for the Raiders during the first few years of Asomugha's career.

“His first couple of years, we moved him around. Then he had the breakout interception year. Once we settled down, his skill set took off,"  says Lombardi. "He’s a press corner, that’s what he does . If you sign Nnamdi, you've got to tailor the scheme to him."

“I think until we know what the cap is. I don’t think you could predict anything. He wants to go somewhere where we can win, and plays his style of defense.

So really - as usual -- the question becomes -- are the Redskins willing to break the bank for one player, on a team that has many needs or are they more apt to spread the wealth around?

“That’s a lot to afford right there,” says Lombardi. What about my admittedly off-the-wall theory that the Redskins might have to release DeAngelo Hall after next year (for cap purposes) or possibly trade him now for highest return value?  "That’s a tough one."

It's highly unlikely that scenario would play out - but again it is something that has to be considered. As are other options like Johnathan Jospeh of the Bengals and Taylor.

“Joseph is going to cost a lot of money, says Lombardi.” As for Redskins fans being able to say 'I like Ike;' Lombardi isn't buying it. "Ike Taylor is going to stay out in Pittsburgh.”

John Clayton of ESPN,  speculated to the "Sports Reporters" about the Redskins interest in Asomugha --  "I think they might" but he is clearly leaving Oakland, "one for the money" and also to try and win.

A league executive who wished to not be identified says -- forget about the Redskins throwing 'jack' around like they used too. “They are not going to spend the money, That’s the OLD Redskins. It’s just not happening."

Honestly, that sounds like a good thing doesn't it? Especially with the Redskins commitment to stocking the cupboards via the draft, as they did in April selecting 12 players.

One final interesting twist -- Remember,  Bruce Allen was also a Senior Executive for Al Davis and the Raiders when Asomugha was drafted. Is his history with Nnamdi – a factor? The unidentified league executive told ESPN-980; perhaps to the chagrin of some,  “If he’s in charge – but I think we all know who is.”

-Chris Russell // RussellC@Redskins.com // www.twitter.com/russellmania980