ASHBURN, Va. -- The complaint two years ago stemmed from having young players who didn't view themselves as special teamers. They weren't the only problem, but it was an issue.
It's what the Washington Redskins say they've avoided with their current draft class. Of the 10 picks, they have at least four players who could provide solid help on special teams, whether immediate or for several years. That was part of general manager Scot McCloughan's plan.
"Very much so," he said. "We took players for the primary position but I wanted guys who could be quality backups if not starters and be really good on special teams; be core special teams guys. That was very important to me. It always will be."
The Redskins placed an emphasis on this area last offseason, too. They hired a new coach (Ben Kotwica). They drafted two players I felt could become solid special teamers in linebacker Trent Murphy and corner Bashaud Breeland. But beyond that, it was a group thin on special teams potential. However, they tried to address that in free agency as well with players such as Adam Hayward and Akeem Jordan. Injuries altered their plans and the unit never played as they had hoped.
But there was even more emphasis placed here during the draft. They'll also get Hayward back. However, I like the fact that they possibly -- have to use that word -- have drafted players who will form the core of special teams for a few seasons. This assumes, of course, that they make the roster. If they do? It's another positive building block coming out of this offseason.
Here's a look:
WR Jamison Crowder: He can return punts, having averaged 13.4 yards on 65 punt returns at Duke. Andre Roberts performed this role last season, but without much success (he's averaged 7.1 yards on 68 career punt returns). One thing I loved that Crowder said: the most important part about returning is making good decisions.
LB Martrell Spaight: Two positions matter greatly when compiling special teams: linebacker and safety. The more depth you have at these spots, the better those teams typically play. Spaight played on special teams at Arkansas and that will have to be his role this season for Washington. He won't come here with an entitled feeling, not after having gone the junior college route.
S Kyshoen Jarrett: He's undersized, but if he makes the roster he could become a core special teamer. The Redskins just signed a former undersized special teams standout earlier this offseason – Jeron Johnson.
WR Evan Spencer: Known for blocking and special teams work at Ohio State. The Redskins lacked a receiver who was part of any coverage units so this gives them another player who can run and cover.
