Most significant move: Keeping quarterback Robert Griffin III. Earlier in the week coach Jay Gruden said Griffin would be on the roster, but there was still doubt throughout the week as multiple sources said no decision had been made. But there appears to be a definite split in the organization as to Griffin's status. Regardless, it makes Griffin a high-profile backup and one who still commands attention. He's handled previous benchings well in the past, maintaining a low profile. Still, it's a gamble. As long as Griffin remains on the roster, there could be pressure from above on Gruden to play a guy he doesn't believe in, especially if starter Kirk Cousins struggles. It's not an ideal situation for any involved.
Draft class: The Washington Redskins kept seven of their 10 draft picks, releasing Evan Spencer (sixth round) and center Austin Reiter (seventh round). Earlier this summer they waived/injured corner Tevin Mitchell, who was claimed off waivers by Indianapolis. Neither Reiter nor Spencer deserved a spot. Josh LeRibeus' development as the backup center sealed Reiter's fate and Rashad Ross' big summer hurt Spencer. But while it did not appear Reiter would be signed to the practice squad, the Redskins do like what Spencer can provide them on special teams and feel he developed as a receiver more than they anticipated.
Earned spots: Not only did Ross end up as a pleasant surprise this summer; so, too did corner Deshazor Everett and tackle Ty Nsekhe. Everett will provide help on special teams, but it'll be interesting to see if he's active in the opener. If not, he could be quickly released when corner Bashaud Breeland's one-game suspension ends. Nsekhe gives the Redskins four tackles, including fellow backup Tom Compton. But Nsekhe's physical style impressed the Redskins -- that he's 6-foot-8, 325 pounds didn't hurt either. As for Ross, what impressed most was his ability to win on a variety of routes -- he was not just a speed guy.
What's next: The Redskins will put together their practice squad. Some names to watch: tight end Je'Ron Hamm, corner Quinton Dunbar, running back Trey Williams, linebacker Terrance Plummer, lineman Takoby Cofield and receiver Evan Spencer. But a bigger concern will be tweaking their roster. The Redskins only kept eight linebackers. Before camp they wanted more depth at outside linebacker (before they signed Junior Galette) so that's a possibility. Also, it would help to add a linebacker who can help on special teams. Actually, that be true in the secondary as well.
Redskins moves: CB Quinton Dunbar, WR Evan Spencer (injured), C Austin Reiter, WR Reggie Bell, WR Colin Lockett, TE Je'Ron Hamm, T Takoby Cofield, OG Tyler Larsen, FB Jordan Campbell (injured), RB Trey Williams, RB Mack Brown, TE D.J. Williams (injury settlement), DE Corey Crawford, LB Terrance Plummer, S Akeem Davis (injury settlement), LB Houston Bates, DB DaMon Cromartie-Smith (injury settlement), LB Sage Harold, DL Travian Robertson, DL Robert Thomas, NT Jerrell Powe (contract terminated).
