Defensive end has long been a problematic position for the Redskins, and this season will be no different.
Andre Carter is returning to start at right end, and hopefully will have a greater impact with the addition of Albert Haynesworth in the middle. Carter is supposed to be the best pass rusher along the line, but only got three sacks last season. A bigger push up the middle and less double teams sent his way should up that total, but he is not the real concern along the line.
The starter at right end will have to be decided during training camp. After the 'Skins failed to re-sign Demetric Evans, who led the team in sacks last year, and releasing Jason Taylor, there was a huge void left.
Vinny Cerrato's plan to fill the empty spots? Sign two veterans familiar with the organization and defensive coordinator Greg Blatche's scheme, but both well out of their prime: Phillip Daniels and Renaldo Wynn.
Daniels, 35, and Wynn, 34, both signed one year contracts close to the veteran minimum. Both fit the same mold of large, run-stopping ends with little ability to pressure the quarterback, and should split snaps. Blatche loves to rotate his linemen, and the rotation with these two will be monitored closely. Both are old and injury prone, and there aren't many reliable players behind them who can go in.
Backing up the starters is a group of unproven youngsters. Two players who fit essentially the same mold are Chris Wilson, 26, and Rob Jackson, 23. Both are undersized speed rushers that can easily be taken advantage of in running situations. Since they fit the same mold, the team will probably have to choose one to keep on the roster for the season.
Another youngster is Alex Buzbee, 23, who was out the entire season last year with an Achilles Tendon injury. He is still raw and unproven, and will have to fight for a roster spot.
With the draft coming up, look for the Redskins to target an end with either their first pick, 13th overall, or their third round choice, 80th overall. They have long needed to get younger at this position, and the time to do it is now.
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