The Washington Redskins have arguably been the most active NFL team to not make the playoffs in 2019, as they’ve made some monumental moves since the offseason began for them in late December.
With a new head coach at the helm, an old team president cast by the wayside, and a much-needed feeling of hope in the fanbase, it’s safe to say that anyone who incorporates the Burgundy & Gold into their daily life is probably feeling a bit better now than they did a month ago.
As more teams start to enter the offseason with the NFL playoffs winnowing down, ESPN interviewed a number of executives in the league and asked them to make some predictions for the 2020 season. For the Redskins, there are some rare high expectations being thrust onto the shoulders of Ron Rivera.
They predict that the Redskins will make the playoffs in 2020, ending their four-year streak of seeing their season end in December.
“The front seven has talent and is going to be so much better,” one exec told ESPN. “And coaching will make a big difference.”
According to the executives, the expectations go beyond a front-seven that can add Ohio State’s Chase Young with the No. 2 pick in the NFL Draft; they also feature a number of dynamic playmakers on offense.
This roster is not void of ability, and Rivera is generally an above-.500 coach when he has at least marginal talent. Maybe Washington’s remade training staff can entice Trent Williams to return and fortify the offensive line. Terry McLaurin and Derrius Guice (if healthy) are quality young playmaking pieces.
Lofty expectations for the Redskins haven’t been completely absent in the past — many believed Washington’s defense would finish 2019 in the top five of the NFL this year. That…did not happen. However, this new expectation of at least making the wild card round feels more obtainable. Under Rivera, all things may be possible in time.
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