5:1 What's Good?

This offseason has been filled with lots of drama and change. There is no doubt about that. Many were unsure in February what the future of the Redskins would be, and the transition was difficult. However, many are optimistic about the team now and looking forward to 2010. What happened these past few months that have added hope to a doubting fan base? How far have the Redskins come since Week 17 of 2009? How far will they go next year and in years to come? The Redskins have made changes to the roster and to the management that could prove benefits for the long run as well as the short term. Let's look at the players, coaches, and managers of the '09 squad that have parted ways with Washington.



The first casualty to last year's team was Vinny Cerrato, the Redskins former General Manager. He resigned after the team's horrible start to 2009. Next to go was the Head Coach Jim Zorn. He was fired immediately following the final loss last year to the San Diego Chargers. The Redskins also released RB Ladell Betts, RB Rock Cartwright, WR Antwaan Randle El, CB Fred Smoot, DT Cornelius Griffin, and G Randy Thomas. They also lost Quinton Ganther to the Seattle Seahawks. The biggest player to leave the Redskins was former starting QB Jason Campbell who was traded to the Oakland Raiders for a 4th round draft pick in 2012. It was hard for some of the Redskins' fans to part ways with Jason Campbell but most knew it was necessary. These departures left many voids on the team, but there were many additions in the next few months that significantly changed the character of the team.

Late last year, the Redskins added Bruce Allen, son of former Redskins Coach George Allen, as the new General Manager. Mike Shanahan, the former Denver Broncos Head Coach joins the Redskins as the new Head Coach. Possible future Hall of Fame QB Donovan McNabb takes over the starting quarterback role. Two new running backs in Larry Johnson and Willie Parker were also added. Trent Williams and Jammal Brown solidify the offensive line. Adam Carriker will join the Redskins Defensive line as well as Maake Kemoeatu at Nose Tackle. All these changes will make for a more competitive squad. Only time will tell if the Redskins changes will pay off.