Redskins Rookie Update: Amerson, Reed, Thomas

Now that football is at least kind of back and training camp is in full swing the Redskins' rookies have had the chance to play more with the team. Here is how it seems each of them have been doing...

Phillip Thomas(left), David Amerson(middle), Bacarri Rambo(right)

David Amerson - Both Josh Wilson and DeAngelo Hall have missed some time this training camp so Amerson got the opportunity to play with the first team more than he would have otherwise. So far it appears that he has shown why he was the Redskins' first pick in the draft. His long arms have really helped him be physical in press coverage which he was rarely asked to do in college. It is very unlikely that he will beat out Wilson or Hall by the time the season starts but he should be a valuable contributor and might be able to pass Biggers this preseason.
He has the talent to be a big play corner and while it might take some time he has a good chance to become a starter by seasons end especially considering the lack of talent ahead of him on the depth chart. John Keim of ESPN has more in depth analysis of Amerson here.



Jordan Reed - Reed has seemed to really prove me wrong so far. I originally didn't expect him to make much of an impact this year and, while that may still be true, it appears that his skills as a receiving tight end are impressive. Pat Kirwan of CBS even goes as far to say he is challenging Logan Paulsen  for the #2 TE spot. However, I think this might be a little premature. No one really doubted Reed's ability to be dynamic as a receiver and his versatility is impressive, but his biggest weakness is blocking. Paulsen meanwhile is a great blocker and proved last season that he can make some plays as a receiver as well. While it's unlikely that Paulsen will be Jason Witten his ability to block probably should keep him above both Niles Paul and Jordan Reed.

Phillip Thomas - Thomas has worked out with the 2nd and 3rd team defenses for much of camp until yesterday where it appears he got some time playing with the first team according to the Washington Post. Thomas has had a harder transition than fellow rookie Bacarri Rambo but he is now coming along strongly. While it is unlikely that Thomas will unseat Meriweather for the starting job he could need to fill in if injuries once again get the best of Meriweather. Reed Doughty is also in competition for the #2 Strong Safety position so Thomas will still have to work hard and show something during the preseason to win the job.