ASHBURN, Va. -- The Washington Redskins did not want to go into last week's game with only three inside linebackers. They might not have a choice this week.
Linebacker Perry Riley did not practice Tuesday and likely will not play versus the New York Giants on Thursday. Will Compton would take his place; he made five starts last season at inside linebacker. But this also means that rookie Terrance Plummer, signed off the practice squad Saturday, will be the third linebacker. If they somehow lose both starters, then the Redskins would need to move one of the outside linebackers inside, perhaps Trent Murphy, coach Jay Gruden said.
"Well it's going to be a grind for those guys," Gruden said of the three inside linebackers. "I feel good about those three guys... We've got to hold the fort down."
Compton might have pushed Riley for the starting job this summer, but he missed time in camp because of an injury in his groin area. The coaches like him because he plays disciplined, something that new coordinator Joe Barry prizes.
The Redskins also lost another inside linebacker when they placed rookie Martrell Spaight on injured reserve Tuesday. He suffered a concussion in the season opening loss to Miami.
Also, corner Justin Rogers did not practice again because of plantar fasciitis and won't play against the Giants. Tackle Tom Compton (calf) was limited in practice.
