Fred Smoot played seven seasons for the Washington Football Team over two stints between 2001-2009. The colorful Smoot was one of the more popular Washington players over the last 20 years.
Now, Smoot does some work in the media and, yes, he is a big Washington fan.
Smoot co-hosts a podcast with popular D.C. sports personality Chick Hernandez called “That’s Your Opinion” on the Bleav Podcast Network. It’s an entertaining show that will make you laugh while offering plenty of good football takes.
In the most recent episode, Hernandez asked Smoot his outlook on Washington when he visited camp this summer.
“I see an 11-6 team, could be 12-5,” Smoot said. “I am telling you, I am witnessing a team that practices hard; every position has competition. We are two-deep at so many positions.”
Since Ron Rivera took over as head coach in 2020, he has focused on creating competition at every position. It’s an approach that is appreciated by his players.
Later in the episode, Smoot continued with his praise on Washington’s roster. He heaped plenty of praise on rookie cornerback Benjamin St-Juste.
“Benjamin St-Juste is gonna be a star in this league,” Smoot said. “He’s a faster version of Richard Sherman. He’s 6-3, 200. He’s quick in short spaces, usually tall guys or not; this dude is a baller.”
When Smoot talks about other defensive backs, you should listen.
Finally, Hernandez asked Smoot one more time about Washington’s outlook for 2021.
“Top-3 defense, 11-6, NFC (East) champs,” Smoot said.
Smoot noted how important it was to have a quarterback like Ryan Fitzpatrick who can actually give Washington a lead, allowing the team’s outstanding pass-rushers to hunt opposing quarterbacks while playing with a lead.
Give it a listen. Smoot and Hernandez are entertaining, have good chemistry and give outstanding analysis on the Washington Football Team.