This is not goodbye for me; I’m only about to enter a two-week hiatus before joining the Washington Post on July 1 to continue doing what I’ve done for a long time: write about the Redskins, focusing heavily on analysis. Safe to say I can’t wait to get started; they’re putting me in position to improve the way I report.

But that just makes this a bittersweet time. I’m thrilled to be moving on; I’m disappointed beyond belief that the paper is closing. I’m not going to spend time rehashing the problems of being a journalist these days, or predict where newspapers are headed. What I know is that people still need to get the news and still want to hear from reporters, whether on line or in print. But I’m not a media analyst so I have no idea where this whole thing is headed.

However, regardless of your industry or business, any time you’re in a place that’s closing after working there for eight years there will be an element of sadness, especially if you liked your colleagues. I’m fortunate to continue my relationship with the readers, but the guys I’ll miss greatly are the ones I shared the sports pages with, especially Rick Snider, Brian McNally, Craig Stouffer, Kevin Dunleavy, Jim Williams and Thom Loverro. It was an absolute pleasure working with such high-quality individuals. It’s also easier when your editors give you the ability to perform the way you see fit, which is what all of mine did here: Dan Rubin, Leon Saffelle, James Irwin, Jeff Tomik and Elliot Smilowitz. Quality people.

Snider and I go back 20 years, first working for competing newspapers and then since the Examiner opened. I probably spoke on the phone more with him than anyone else in my life, learning an awful lot about how to be a reporter and how to handle life’s curveballs. Those calls will continue. And I got to know Rubin, McNally, Stouffer and Dunleavy particularly well having worked with them for a long time. I’m honored to call each one a friend.

The Examiner did not last as long as desired, but it did provide us a platform in this city. And being with an underdog, you were forced to report news in a different way if you wanted to stand out. We had to build our audience almost from scratch and I think we accomplished that mission by being creative, working hard and becoming experts on our beats. I’m better for having worked here, frustrations and all.

I’ll see you in two weeks.  I can’t wait to work with the people I’ve met, and those I’ve known for a while. I’m humbled to be joining such a talented group of reporters and high-quality individuals. But first give me a moment to reflect on relationships that I’ll miss.

…The Redskins signed receiver Donte Stallworth, as expected after a good two-day showing by the veteran wideout. The question is, can Stallworth make the final roster? It depends on how many receivers they keep, but the first four appear set: Pierre Garcon, Josh Morgan, Leonard Hankerson and Santana Moss. Aldrick Robinson’s speed, and the couple big plays he made last season, make him the leader at the fifth receiver spot. But Stallworth would provide insurance if one of the starters got hurt. The only drawback is that he does not play special teams. So it could be that, even if he makes the roster, he’d be inactive until a health issue arises.

…The Redskins also signed receiver Devery Henderson, who caught 22 passes for 316 yards and a touchdown with New Orleans last season. Redskins defensive coordinator Jim Haslett drafted Henderson in the second round in New Orleans in 2004 (as well as Stallworth two years earlier). Henderson has 245 career catches for 4,377 yards and 20 touchdowns.

… Once upon a time both players scared defenses because of their speed. It’s debatable how much either guy has left, but if nothing else it provides depth for camp. But it is funny because after Haslett’s press gathering Wednesday, he talked about timing Stallworth at a pre-draft workout and how stunned he was by his 40 time. Then Haslett brought up Henderson’s name as someone else who’s speed he loved. And then… he’s signed.

…The Redskins also signed kicker John Potter, who was in camp this week and whose name Mike Shanahan said he did not know on Tuesday (though it’s hard to imagine Shanahan not knowing a player’s name). Potter, 23, was a kickoff specialist in Buffalo for six weeks last season, with 13 touchbacks in 24 kickoffs.

…The Redskins placed defensive end Doug Worthington and tight end DeAngelo Peterson on the waived/injured list. Worthington tore his biceps tendon Tuesday; Peterson broke a bone in his foot. If they clear waivers they can be placed on injured reserve.

…Here’s what offensive line coach Chris Foerster had to say about his young backups: “Josh LeRibeus is hurt and needs to get himself well and in shape. He was fine last season. He didn’t come in in the best of shape and now he got injured. So he has to get ready for camp; he has five weeks to do that so he’s good. [Adam] Gettis and [Tom] Compton made big steps. They both made the steps to looking like they’re ready to step up and be contributors. Last year Josh was really the only guy who was really ready to play were something to happen. Tom and Gettis weren’t. This year it looks like Tom and Gettis should be in a position to contribute if need be.”

…For what it’s worth, Foerster said Compton will stay at left tackle for now. Compton has worked some in the past on the right side, but spent almost all of last summer at left tackle as well. “If he plays great at left tackle, we’ll work him into the mix on the other side.”

…Mike Shanahan on Adam Carriker’s recovery:  “It has been slow with his thigh tendon injury. He has had some repercussions on it. I can’t tell you for sure until the doctors tell me that he’ll be ready to go. They haven’t been able to do that, he hasn’t been on the field. So it has been a slow process and he is here all the time working out but there was a setback with it and we’ll find out in time. I can’t tell you right now.”

…Shanahan on Jordan Bernstine’s recovery: “He’s made tremendous strides in his rehab. I can’t say it’s a lock for him to be ready to go once we start our camp but he’s done everything we’ve asked him to do to be ready. His injuries were more serious than most injuries.”

…Will have a story on the site later about Kyle Shanahan and the zone read option. But he made a strong defense of it Wednesday and I don’t blame him. Having watched a lot of it this offseason, the play needs to remain a part of the offense. It creates opportunities for the backs and receivers and it buys Robert Griffin III time in the pocket. At times it causes the linebackers to freeze for two seconds before they can drop (if it’s a pass); that leaves nice throwing windows.

Keep in mind, too, that defenses did adjust to this play during last season. You name it, I saw defenses try it. Sometimes their strategies worked, often it didn’t. Hence: the zone read stays. As it should.

…I missed too much of Wednesday’s practice to get a good feel for it (was posting the Haslett press conference highlights). But there were a few things that stood out. Here they are:

…Quarterback Kirk Cousins connected with receiver Leonard Hankerson down the left side for what would have been a long touchdown. Hankerson got past rookie corner David Amerson (Richard Crawford was playing deep middle and could not get over in time; not sure what was in front of him, but the pass was to the outside and that means it was on Amerson).

…Receiver Lance Lewis made some highlight type catches in college; he made one Wednesday vs. Crawford. On a deep out inside the 10, Lewis went high and used outstretched hands to grab a Pat White pass. White had a couple nice throws Wednesday, but remained inconsistent. He did improve from the first time we saw him during spring workouts, but White has a ways to go.

…Chris Thompson is a fast man. That much I deduced watching him sprint on the side. I don’t think I really needed to tell anyone that considering that’s one of his most impressive traits. But it’s still something to watch a guy that fast.

…The more I see of corner E.J. Biggers the more I think he’ll help the Redskins. I don’t know that he’s anything more than a third or fourth corner – I haven’t seen him enough vs. starter types — but that’s OK. They needed that, too. He had great position vs. Aldrick Robinson on one pass in the corner of the end zone, leading to a breakup of a Rex Grossman throw.

…Then, on the next play Biggers defended tight end Niles Paul running a wheel route. Paul was not open, forcing Grossman to try and throw over the top. But Paul could only get one hand on the pass.

…Linebacker Brian Orakpo was able to get Compton off-balance on one rush, ducking inside him. On the next rush, Orakpo went low and turned the corner right to the quarterback.

…Liked one play in which Cousins locked in on Hankerson. But Hankerson was covered, so Cousins looked back to his left to spot Paul down the sideline and delivered a perfect pass, leading him into the end zone.

…Looks like linebacker Ryan Kerrigan is trying to shorten the gap between he and the offensive tackles when he rushes. Too often last year tackles were able to keep Kerrigan off them, limiting the use of his hands, which is one of his strengths. Just something to watch during camp.

Haslett press conference highlights: Excitement over the rookies

John Keim

June 12, 12:00 AM June 12, 11:20 AM

Redskins defensive coordinator Jim Haslett spoke to the media Wednesday for the first time this offseason. The main topic: the three rookie defensive backs and what to expect at safety. Here are some highlights:

Haslett on:

The rookie defensive backs: “I’ll start with David [Amerson]. He’s a guy that has great ball skills, great length, good speed. He has the ability to play man or zone. That’s probably the biggest thing is, he’s a playmaker. Phillip is the same thing. He has great ball skills. He has the ability to come up with the big play, key interceptions. Phillip has good size, good enough speed. He likes football, understands football and studies football. And Bacarri is a good athlete and also has good ball skills and also has a chance to make a lot of plays for you. That’s what wins in the league. Last year we had 31 turnovers, which is really good but we had a chance to pick up three guys that can add to those totals through interceptions.”

Any surprises by David Amerson: “I don’t think anything is a surprise He’s very knowledgeable and understands the game. He’s a guy that spends a lot of time in the office. I like what I’ve seen. He’ll be a good player.”

Amerson’s struggles last season: “He got surprised the first game of the year. Tennessee comes out with two wideouts, one a junior college transfer and he didn’t know who he was. He got beat with a double move a couple times, had some bad body language and struggled the first half of the season. After that he settled in and played like he did his sophomore year. The maturity thing. He’s a young guy. But when you watch him move and close on things, everything is smooth and effortless. It’s the ball skills and everything that comes with it.”

How much the rookie DBs can help the defense: “First of all, can you play with three rookies at one time? I don’t know if that’s going to happen. We’ll see. But we’ll play the best players. And over time all three of those guys will be on the field at some point. I don’t know when that’s going to be.”

The quest to find starting safeties: “Brandon [Meriweather] hasn’t come back yet and I’m sure he’ll be in that mix. But so far between him and Reed [Doughty] does a good job in situations and Jordan [Pugh] did a good job in certain situations. We’ll put the best guys on the field or a combination of safeties until they’re ready to play.”

Rookie safeties transition: “One, the complexity of the defense, the number of defenses we have including zone and blitzes. It’s not the easiest defense to learn and they have to learn strong and free. They can’t just play one position. It will take reps, it will take time on the grass but as they get more time in camp and get more reps it will start to shine.”

If one of the rookie safeties could realistically start: “Yeah I really do think one of them will be on the grass, not sure which one. But they’ll all help us. I just don’t know to what extent yet.”

Concerns over Adam Carriker’s availability: “I don’t know where Adam stands. You’ll have to get with Mike on that one. But just being around and knowing how competitive Adam is, he’ll be back at some point. What point that is, I don’t know. I know he’s had a couple surgeries on his leg. I see him in there every day working. He’s one of the hardest working guys we have on the team. You don’t discount anyone, but the one you don’t want to say, ‘This guy won’t make it back,’ is Adam. Adam will try to find a way to make it back. When that will be I don’t know.”

Jarvis Jenkins’ first step: “I think Jarvis has looked better than he did his first year. He understands the defense, he has the brace off now. He’s running around. You can tell he feels more comfortable. I think he’ll make a lot more plays this year than last year.”

Brian Orakpo: “What I see right now, he looks great. He’s probably moving as well as he’s ever moved. He looks in great shape. The strength, all of that is there. The guy looks awesome.”

Brandon Jenkins: “He has good rush ability. He’s another guy if you go back and look at stats, you have to look at production. He was projected as a first round pick at one point. He’s a guy you can bring in the mix. I don’t think you can have enough pass rushers. Last year we lose Rak. So far what I see, he’s another guy who will be a good player down the road.”

Finding a way to get Rob Jackson, Ryan Kerrigan and Brian Orakpo on the field at the same time: “Yeah I don’t think that’s a problem. The question is, can you get four of those guys on the field at the same time [including rookie Brandon Jenkins]. If there’s a way to get everyone on the field we’ll find a way.”

E.J. Biggers: “He’s a good player. He understands the game, studies the game, has good quickness and a good feel for it. He knows when to blitz and how to hide behind linemen. When I’ve seen him without pads on I’ve been impressed.”

Slot corner: “We played Biggers there, [Richard] Crawford there. Josh [Wilson] is not practicing. We limited D. Hall a little bit to the outside. We’ve got some guys that can do it this year. Last year we only had one or two guys.”

Tanard Jackson: “To be honest with you, until you brought it up I haven’t thought about it. With Tanard back there that’s another bonus. He’s a heck of a player. I don’t know where that stands, but we’d welcome him back with open arms.”

After year of adversity, Stallworth glad to be back

John Keim

June 11, 12:00 AM June 11, 03:50 PM

When Donte Stallworth signed with New England last offseason, Redskins coach Mike Shanahan told him he’d made a mistake. Shanahan was smiling when he said that today. But Shanahan admitted he did not want to lose Stallworth a year ago.

He’ll likely have him back, at least for training camp. Stallworth is participating in the Redskins minicamp practices this week and, barring a setback, he’ll be signed.

“I’m just glad to be back out here,” Stallworth said.

He should be. Last year was a tough one for Stallworth, who was cut in training camp by the Patriots. They re-signed him later in the season and, in December, he caught his only pass of the season – a 63-yard touchdown grab. But he also hurt his ankle and spent the rest of the season on injured reserve.

Then, in the offseason, he was involved in a hot air balloon crash near Miami. Stallworth and a friend, Soleil Guerrero, were in a balloon that crashed into power lines. Stallworth said he felt waves of electricity through his body at that moment. According to the Boston Globe, Stallworth said he felt death approaching.

“In that moment, I thought my eyes would close and I’d never wake up again,” Stallworth said.

He and Guerrero both were on fire.  The Globe reported that Stallworth told friend Wes Welker, “imagine the hardest hit you’ve ever taken and multiply that by 1,000.” Stallworth kept his friend calm after they hit the ground. Paramedics eventually airlifted them to a trauma center.

“Once the doctors cleared me I got right back to working out,” Stallworth said. “I was sitting around on my butt for two to three weeks; I couldn’t do anything. I had to let the burns heal. It took a while for me to feel like myself again. Once I felt like myself, my confidence came back and three weeks later I got the phone call [from the Redskins].”

Now he’s just waiting for a contract. The hard part is knowing where Stallworth would fit. The Redskins have depth at receiver with starters Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan, Leonard Hankerson, Santana Moss and Aldrick Robinson. And Stallworth is not a special teams player. But he would provide insurance if the Redskins suffer injuries during camp.

“I was happy to see him out there [Tuesday],” Shanahan said. “He made plays, he looked good. I would say right now after today we’ll see where he’s at, but he impressed me today.”

Redskins minicamp June 11: Notes and observations

John Keim

June 11, 12:00 AM June 11, 06:20 PM

…Quarterback Robert Griffin III was closer to running all-out sprints Tuesday, but the big test remains over the next month when he adds cutting to his rehab.

Griffin, who according to multiple reports will see Dr. James Andrews again next week for a checkup, said he’ll start cutting next week. But he knows it won’t be a matter of cutting for one or two days and proclaiming himself ready.

“It’s a month of doing cutting drills, changing direction,” he said. “That way I can train my body to get back for that. I’ll start cutting and then after that it’s just everything over and over.

“I continue to work out in the weight room over the next four or five weeks, continue to keep sprinting, and just get more and more comfortable.”

…Griffin was able to run a lot more bootlegs Tuesday, though he continued to work with only the other players who are still rehabbing. Griffin ran the bootlegs to both sides, throwing off his surgically-repaired right leg as well as off his left one (which also underwent surgery). Looked fine, but did not look like he will in a month or two.

…Right tackle Jeremy Trueblood is coming off a tough couple of years in Tampa Bay. He’ll need to improve a bit if he harbors any hope of unseating Tyler Polumbus for the starting job. Trueblood, who is 6-foot-8, struggles to always stay low and that gets him in trouble – even in workouts with no pads. Doug Worthington got into his pads on one rush when Trueblood was too upright. He also will need to improve his footwork.

…Rookie safeties Phillip Thomas and Bacarri Rambo both worked with the first unit, as did corner David Amerson. Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has rotated backups in with the starters in the past, just to have them work against better players. Thomas, again, worked mostly in the box with Rambo deep. Loved Thomas’ read of a screen pass to Josh Morgan; Thomas raced up hard.

…Corner Chase Minnifield participated in the entire practice, the first time we’ve seen him do so since last year’s minicamp. Minnifield looked a bit rusty at times coming out of his breaks. On one, against Aldrick Robinson, he jammed his left arm into him after a couple steps, but Robinson created a little separation off the break. Had the pass been on target it’s a catch.

But that’s to be expected given that he missed all last season after ACL surgery and only recently was cleared to work the full practice.

Minnifield said he’ll spend the next month working at home with his father, ex-NFL corner Frank Minnifield, on his technique. Minnifield remains confident.

“I feel like my play can stack up against anybody in the league,” he said. “I’m confident in my abilities. If I can get out there I think I’ll be there for the season.”

Minnifield did pick off Rex Grossman on a deep ball intended for Josh Morgan.

“He looks healthy now,” Shanahan said. “Doctors say he’s ready to go and he’s worked extremely hard to get himself in great shape. Him coming back in the first couple days have been very impressive. It doesn’t look like there’s any setback or that he’s favoring anything whatsoever. That’s why I’m excited he has five more weeks to keep getting better and do what he needs to make the team.”

…Lots of deep play-action passes from Kirk Cousins and Grossman Tuesday. Cousins did throw one wobbly deep ball, which probably went around 50 yards, that receiver Leonard Hankerson caught. But it wasn’t pretty. However, Cousins also threw some nice deep balls, though most were incomplete. Grossman threw four interceptions; he’s extra aggressive in these workouts. It’s who he is.

…Can’t wait to see Brian Orakpo against Trent Williams in training camp one-on-one blocking drills or full-team work. Orakpo is playing with more energy than I remember seeing in him the past couple springs.

As Griffin said Williams told him, Orakpo is “out there rushing like it’s the NFC Championship Game.”

Said it before, but you can’t underestimate the value of having Orakpo and his energy back in the huddle. They missed it last season.

…Hankerson was open on some deep passes that fell incomplete, getting a step or two past Rambo on one post. Hankerson made a nice grab of a Grossman pass down the seam. He also did what I’ve always liked in him: making himself taller with his long arms. With corner Richard Crawford behind him on a route, Hankerson did an excellent job of extending his arms and catching the ball. Crawford had no chance. I do know the third year is a big one for receivers; I also know a third-year receiver had better look good in the spring.

…This is how you know it’s spring workouts: After drawing nose tackle Chris Baker offsides on a play, Grossman did a little dance in front of him (drawing a hand slap from Griffin afterward).

…Rob Jackson sprinted around left tackle Tom Compton on a pass rush. Just too fast. But Compton stopped him cold on the next play, showing a strong base.

…Safety DeJon Gomes, who has worked most of the spring with the starters, anticipated a Grossman pass over the middle to a tightly covered Logan Paulsen (by linebacker Bryan Kehl). Gomes sprinted up and intercepted the ball in full stride.

…Corner E.J. Biggers made an athletic interception in the back of the end zone on a deep ball to Robinson. Rambo was also in the area, but Biggers raced past both players and made the pick in the back.

…Shanahan said doctors told him that safety Brandon Meriweather would be ready for the start of training camp. Meriweather played one game last year because of knee issues (before and after, tearing his ACL).

…Safety Jordan Pugh is in Ashburn, but is still unable to practice because of what Shanahan called an “unusual ear infection.” Doctors advised Pugh not to practice, but he’s expected to be ready for training camp.

1. Robert Griffin III says “without a doubt” the start of training camp is a realistic goal for his return. He did walk with a slight limp at one point Thursday.

2. Roy Helu returned to work Wednesday after missing the first two weeks with the lingering effects of his turf toe. Helu said his goal isn’t just to stay healthy. “I’m not focused on staying healthy per se, but just on competing the best I can do.”

Helu’s main focus: “Job security,” he said.

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said of Helu, “He looked good in practice. Anytime you have a guy that weighs 225 pounds and he’s under that 4.5 in the 40 and has receiving skills and the opportunity to make a big play. It’s good to have him back.”

3. Shanahan reiterated what he said a couple weeks ago, that tight end Fred Davis would not be full go until training camp. But if there was a game next week? Davis would play.

4. Corner Chase Minnifield, coming off two major knee surgeries last year, worked Wednesday, but only did positional drills Thursday. He’ll work Tuesday, but Shanahan said he would not work Wednesday.

“We don’t want to overdo it,” Shanahan said, “especially when we have a month and a half of recovery time.”

5. Tight end DeAngelo Peterson broke a bone in his foot. No word on when he’ll be ready. He’s a longshot to make the roster with four tight ends ahead of him.

6. Safety Jordan Pugh wasn’t at practice again this week; Shanahan said he’s back in Texas because of an ear infection. Shanahan said Pugh is not allowed to travel.

7. For what it’s worth, safeties DeJon Gomes and Reed Doughty continue to work with the No. 1 defense. Rookies Bacarri Rambo and Phillip Thomas both have worked with the No. 2 defense all spring. It’s interesting that when the Redskins drafted Thomas, coach Mike Shanahan said he would play free safety. But Thomas has worked as the strong safety every practice we’ve seen, partly, perhaps, because he’s with Rambo who is definitely a free safety. Thomas’ skill set works well at strong safety.

8. Receiver Joshua Morgan looked spry Thursday and, consequently, had a good day. Morgan will be intriguing to watch because injuries impacted his 2012 season: the seven screws in his ankle; torn ligaments in both hands. He played tough, but the injuries took a toll on his game. There was little burst after the catch. Now healthy, will that be evident this season?

9. Morgan caught a slant route at the goal line, taking it in for a touchdown, vs. rookie David Amerson (Raheem Morris seemed to like the way Amerson played it). Morgan then spiked the ball over the goal post . Later in the red zone session, Morgan made a leaping catch in the back of the end zone vs. DeAngelo Hall for a touchdown.  No dunk followed.

10. File this away for potential training camp scuffles: Rambo took issue with tight end Niles Paul after one play. Didn’t see what happened, but whatever did knocked Rambo’s helmet off. Rambo was clearly upset; nose tackle Chris Baker shouted out that there was no fighting (in the spring). However, Paul and Rambo were involved in a physical play later with no words. Paul made a leaping catch of a pass and Rambo’s contact forced him to the ground. And that was that.

11. I’ll have more on Paul in the Friday email report (it’s a souvenir edition), with him talking about how different he feels as a tight end – especially catching the ball.

12. Amerson did have good coverage on Paul in the end zone on one play, prompting Paul to grab him. Paul had tried to cut in the back, but Amerson blocked his path. I like the way Amerson anticipates the ball and drives on it out of his backpedal. I can see how that will be used against him at times, but it’s also why he made big plays in college.

13. E.J. Biggers had a solid jam vs. Santana Moss in the slot; Biggers’ long arms help him with the jams. I don’t know what kind of slot corner he might be. Staying with corners: Richard Crawford got chewed out by Morris after allowing a catch in zone coverage (Crawford went to the wrong area). But he broke up a pass on the next play.

14. Jordan Reed’s athleticism is obvious when watching him catch passes from Robert Griffin III during the hurt-guys-working portion of practice. Reed made an excellent adjustment on a Griffin pass down the left seam. He had to turn back while running and made an outstretched catch as he backpedaled. He also made a leaping catch downfield. It’ll take time for him to adjust to playing tight end in the NFL, but the athleticism is noticeable.

15. Aldrick Robinson made a nice catch of a high pass thrown by quarterback Pat White. Robinson has looked good this spring; he did so a year ago as well. Hard to believe he didn’t catch a single pass after the touchdown vs. Dallas on Thanksgiving Day.

16. Rob Jackson disengaged from a Tom Compton block to make what would have been a tackle near the goal line.

17. I know you can’t tell a lot from running backs until the games begin, but last year you could see Alfred Morris’ body lean (starting in camp with the pads on). For now what you see out of rookie runner Jawan Jamison is the wiggle he uses to shake guys downfield, particularly after the catch.

18. Josh LeRibeus said there’s a chance he’ll be able to participate in the minicamp next week. He’s been sidelined the past three weeks with a pulled hamstring.

Robert Griffin III continued to throw during practice; he continued to run and he continued to be optimistic about his chances for being ready at the start of the season. That’s why, when asked if the start of training camp was a realistic possibility for his return, Griffin didn’t hestitate.

“Without a doubt,” Griffin said.

Griffin, who underwent surgery on his right knee on Jan. 9 to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament as well as repair the medial collateral ligament and lateral collateral ligament, obviously must first be cleared by doctors. But Griffin is encouraged by his progress — he was planting and throwing off his back foot more during practice than he had been the first two weeks.

“One it’s a mindset and two it’s how I felt and how it’s progressed,” Griffin said. “Over the last three weeks I’ve had a lot of progress and I feel a lot better. Camp is a month, month and a half away. I feel really good about that and the start of the season is even farther than that. I feel good about that. That’s why I say without a doubt.”

Griffin said the target date is not only realistic, but the right one.

“It’s the right target if I’m healthy,” he said. “If I’m ready to go week one then I’ll play. If I’m not ready to go then I can swallow my pride and not play. It’s that simple. That’s what I talked to coach [about]. I told him I’ll be honest with him. If I feel I’m ready to go and there’s no doubt in my mind and I can play, then I’ll be ready to go. But if there’s an ounce of doubt or a minor setback then I won’t play.”

Thursday, Griffin ran laps around the field with rookie tight end Jordan Reed as the rest of the team practiced. They also ran sprints. There was a noticeable difference in how he was throwing, not doing so off his front foot as much as in the first two weeks of OTAs.

“I started throwing on the run a lot more, as you guys saw, doing a lot more plant throws out of the play action, the type of throws that we do in our offense,” he said. “That’s the encouraging part. I’ve also bumped up the long-distance running, as you guys saw today, ran a little bit more. That’s all good, I’m feeling more comfortable doing everything, and the coaches are saying that I look a lot better when they do get to sneak a peek in there. They say I look a lot more comfortable throwing the ball, look relaxed, and it shows.”

Griffin said he still needs to test himself by cutting, which he’ll start to do before training camp.

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan likes Griffin’s goal of a return date, but with an asterisk.

“I don’t think anybody knows for sure,” Shanahan said. “You always want someone to have goals, that’s for sure. You want him to come back as soon as he’s ready to go, but the doctors have to OK him. ”

The Washington Examiner’s John Keim (JK) takes questions from fans about the Redskins’ chances of repeating, how they’ll use the tight ends and  his future with the Washington Post (starting July 1), the defensive backfield, rookie potential and more in this installment of “Redskins Mailbag.” It’ll be his final mailbag before joining the Washington Post in July. It was rather long so we broke this one up into two parts. Thank you for the questions

Q: Do you think the redskins can repeat as the division champion?

@Bobrios66

JK: Sure, why not? There are some ifs involved: If Robert Griffin III stays healthy (though the coaches are very confident in Kirk Cousins); if Pierre Garcon and Fred Davis stay healthy; if Brian Orakpo stays healthy. I think you got the point. Health always plays a vital role. But the return of Orakpo (and Adam Carriker if, yes, he’s healthy) will provide sorely-needed pass rush help and that should impact the overall pass defense. I don’t trust Dallas to be that good. Philadelphia has a new coach and I don’t care how smart Chip Kelly is, it’s an adjustment coming to the NFL. Plus his QB is brittle. The Eagles are intriguing though because they do have some weapons. The Giants are the one constancy in the division these days. But it’s not like there are 3 formidable teams here; so if the Redskins have good fortune with health then they should be in contention.

Q: John who has more carries in 2013. RG3 or helu and royster combined?

David @dgordon80 3 Jun

JK: That question should have made me think for more than a minute, but I didn’t. I’m just not sold that both will be on the roster this year. Helu’s injuries are a concern; Royster is just a guy and much more effective as a full-time back than as a third-down guy. But he won’t be a full-time back unless Alfred Morris is hurt. If Helu does play, he’ll be more of a third-down back. If both are on the roster? It would then depend on Morris’ ability to stay healthy. I still think Griffin will run quite a bit. People forget that many times those runs were his decisions: passing up throws to scramble. And they will keep the zone read. So it’s not inconceivable that he runs around 70 times.

Q: Assuming everyone stays healthy, does the pass defense improve enough to take some pressure off the offense to score 30+ a game?

SportsBomb @sportsbombco

JK: I don’t know if the offense felt pressure to score that much or not. I think they just were explosive so that was the result. Yes, it was needed (they were 6-1 in games scoring 30 or more and 2-2 when both teams scored at least 30). But they also had that sort of firepower. Offenses like to score. They did so with a balanced attack, too. Having said all that, yes the defense can improve enough to where the team can win more consistently with an off game. Two years ago they ranked 12th in total yards and 13th in pass yards allowed. Last year it was 28th in total yards and 30th in passing yards. Will the return of Brian Orakpo and, possibly, Adam Carriker help that much? Don’t forget about Brandon Meriweather too. They will have an impact and make this unit better – if they all stay healthy. So the long-winded answer is yes.

Q: Who do you think will end up being the starting FS maybe I think Tanard Jackson will eventually will in middle of year.

Taylor Petropulos @TayDaddy21  

JK: I really don’t know who will open at season’s start. It’s tough to say without seeing the rookies, but I do know how hard the transition is for rookie safeties, especially players picked in the mid- to lower rounds. They both have flaws and the toughest position to gauge in camp is safety; need to see them in game action. I still lean toward one of the veterans, whether it’s DeJon Gomes or Jordan Pugh or Reed Doughty. I also think they did a good job rotating safeties depending on the situation and would expect that to continue. There’s no way to know about Jackson because he will have been out of football for a year – and no contact with the organization. If he’s reinstated and in shape, he can help. But at what point will all that happen? No idea.

Q: Will Santana moss be on this roster in September?

mcarey @mcarey032

JK: Don’t see why not. Last year he was in real trouble, but he responded well. I don’t see a legit replacement for him yet; that could change this summer. But Moss is a proven, reliable target who thrived on third downs last year. Robert Griffin III trusted him. Moss does well from the slot. And by reducing his workload it’s allowed him to be more durable (at least last year). That was always a knock on him in the past.

Q: What will our secondary look like in week 1? Reasonable expectations for Biggers, Crawford, Amerson, Rambo and Thomas?

Manuel @xManny555x

JK: Good question. I think there are four locks at corner (Hall, Wilson, Amerson, Biggers) with Richard Crawford as the fifth player. Chase Minnifield is interesting, but we haven’t seen him in action this spring and he’s coming off two major knee surgeries, so with him you have to keep every finger crossed. At safety, I see Meriweather, Doughty and at least one of the two rookies. Gomes needs to improve, but he’s good on special teams. Bernstine is coming off a very bad knee injury too and that could be an issue. Jordan Pugh did a nice job coming in off the street last season. As for reasonable expectations: Biggers and Amerson should be the Nos. 3 and 4 corners, not necessarily in that order. I’m anxious to see more of Amerson. Rambo and Thomas? One of them should work his way into the rotation. But to expect them to be immediate starters would be unreasonable. It’s rare when that happens for players picked where they were at this position. Could it happen? Of course; anything can. Both have lots to learn/prove before I’d be ready to trust them as the last line of defense. We’ll learn a lot more about them when they must come up and tackle from deep during preseason games.

Q: Let’s talk about the impact of the tight ends this year. Will they be effective in year two of RG3?

Fantasy Genies @FantasyGenies  

JK: As long as Fred Davis is healthy they will be. Davis was not on pace for the same amount of catches he had in 2011 with Rex Grossman and John Beck. But the passing game is designed to get downfield and with Pierre Garcon that still will be the emphasis. But if Jordan Reed can help, and I don’t know how long it will take him to be a threat, then the Redskins will have the ability to create mismatches that will lead to big plays. The way this offense moves defenders around and fools their eyes, it’s easy to lose sight of the tight end at times.

Q: How can Kyle use Reed/Davis to open up the passing game?

jansjay @jansjay

JK: Well, it allows you to keep two athletic tight ends in a base package, which means if you have two tight ends and two running backs in the game, the defense is in a bind. That’s a running formation, but with this group it can be an effective passing look, too. In that look it will create mismatches. Reed has the ability to split out wide and be effective because he can run like a receiver. I saw him run routes from the line at Florida, but if you line him up there it’s a giveaway that a pass is likely coming because he can’t block. You could line him up in the backfield a la Aaron Hernandez (they did this at times last year with Niles Paul) and create another mismatch. But I also think if Davis and Reed come through you simply have two more athletic tight ends catching passes than you did at the end of last season. That alone opens anything up.

Q: Is any OL pick from last year cracking the starting line up this year? Also the RT position is up for grabs?

richard rudolph @rich_rudolph  

JK: Not initially. Not a good sign for Josh LeRibeus that he’s missed a lot of the OTAs because of a sore hamstring/groin (he said hamstring; Mike Shanahan said groin). I don’t see Adam Gettis making that sort of stride. Tom Compton is intriguing, but it would be asking a lot to go from practice squad to NFL starter in a year. He wasn’t promoted to the active roster until early December. The right tackle job belongs to Tyler Polumbus, but he does not have a firm hold on the position. There’s a reason they signed two veterans (albeit one’s with shaky recent pasts) and nearly let Polumbus go to Jacksonville (Shanahan definitely wanted him back, however). So up for grabs? Not quite. But etched in stone? Don’t think so.

Q: Any chance that one of the Draft picks is not on the 53 or PS come September? If so, who? With losing Special Teams stud Lorenzo Alexander and Banks off the roster, are the Skins more apt to keep 4 TEs with Paul being their Special teams ace along with Doughty? Any chance we see Aldrick Robinson returning kicks with his speed this year? Favorite Preseason player you were shocked to see not make the team? (my personal answer was Marcus mason)

Thanks John!!

Boone Hosey in Morgantown WV

JK: 1) Sure there’s a chance. If Chris Thompson shows he isn’t healthy or struggles in this area he could end up on injured reserve or just cut. Long way to go before that’s the case and with his speed and explosive ability it would take a lot for them to just release him (same reason they kept Chase Minnifield around). Or maybe the running backs have a healthy summer and Jawan Jamison is picked up by another team. 2) Yes, I think they are. Mike Shanahan already said as much after the draft. They love Niles Paul on special teams. They also want to see how he responds after having a year at tight end and now a good offseason to work on what he’s learned. 3) Doubt it. He’s been a disaster trying to field punts (he worked on it during his rookie year and didn’t look much better last summer) and had little experience doing it in college. 3) Geez, don’t really have any off the top of my head. I’d have to think awfully hard about this one. I liked Marcus, but he had a tough time learning the plays from what I was told.

Q: What is more important for RG3′s health, fewer designed runs or better pass blocking by the right tackle?

Tim Murray @tcharlesmurray

JK: The right tackle was not the only one getting beat or allowing pressure, but, yes, better pass protection there would help no doubt. But so, too, would better decision making from Griffin. Or, rather, not relying on his legs. There were a number of times, especially early in the season, where guys were open and in his line of vision yet he failed to throw the ball and ran instead. That includes the play where he suffered a concussion vs. Atlanta (Josh Morgan was open in the back of the end zone; tough throw, but a highly make-able one). The designed runs that looked the most brutal for him were the QB draws, not the zone read option runs. Really, the best way Griffin can protect himself is by evolving as a passer. Part of that includes pulling the trigger more often than he did. And I’m not talking about guys who were open in a narrow window, either.

The Washington Examiner’s John Keim (JK) takes questions from fans about his future with the Washington Post (starting July 1), the defensive backfield, rookie potential and more in this installment of “Redskins Mailbag.” It’ll be his final mailbag before joining the Post in July. It was rather long so we broke this one up into two parts. Thank you for the questions

Q: Will your always-appreciated mailbag continue when you journey on to the Washington Post? Will you and Mike Jones compete to see who can out-mailbag the other?

Adam

JK: If you’ve seen Mike lately you would know I won’t outfight him for anything. He’s been working out all offseason. He’s a lineman; I’m a skill player. Haha. Mike will continue to do the mailbag; he does a good job and solicits help if there’s a topic he knows might be best suited for myself or Mark Maske. I will have plenty to keep me busy writing articles I hope you’ll enjoy.

Q: Sad to see that the newsletter will not be published going forward, it is great stuff. Will you be launching another one?

Paul

JK: I can’t say definitively there will be one, but it looks promising. Regardless, the information that I included in the newsletter for the Examiner will be part of my coverage –newsletter or no newsletter. It’s the sort of information I like to dig out and it will be part of our overall coverage, no matter how it’s billed.

Q: I’m curious how the responsibilities are going to be split up at the Post after you start work. Maybe that hasn’t been determined, yet.

Chris

JK: I will focus heavily on analysis and help Mike Jones and Mark Maske in various ways, with news, etc. Not much will change for Mike and Mark, aside from handing over any analysis duties (observations, etc.) to me. The great part about this is it will free us all up to spend more time on our strengths (as in, more time for interviews for a particular story, etc.), which will enhance the product.

Q: What do you see as EJ Biggers role this year? liked him with Tampa, but seems like the CB spot is filled with average players

Anthony Carson @anthoneeezy 22m

JK: He was OK in Tampa last year (had a decent game vs. Washington), but was viewed as nothing more than a third or fourth corner. He’s the same guy here. But if he’s your fourth corner you’re doing well. He’s not going to beat out DeAngelo Hall and Josh Wilson is entrenched, too. If anyone unseats those two eventually it’ll be David Amerson, but it’s tough to see that happening this year if all stay healthy. So it’ll come down to Amerson and Biggers for the No. 3 job. I need to see Amerson in live game action to see what lessons he learned from his last year in college before determining who has an edge in that race. But the depth is better than in 2012.

Q: Is there still a chance at getting Eric Winston for the RT spot?

Gary Cinelli @garycinelli 34m

JK: Doesn’t seem likely, though I haven’t spoken to anyone about him in a while. I find it curious that Winston remains unsigned. The Redskins’ cap situation remains tight, they signed two veterans (whether or not they can still help is unknown right now) and they have Tom Compton to groom. If Compton makes strides they’ll be OK here eventually. The line – heck, the entire offense — is helped tremendously by the scheme. The zone read fakes buy time in the pocket; the stretch zone means you don’t have to drive guys, you just have to obstruct and hold your ground a little. There’s talent involved, especially in opening backside alleys, but I don’t think their season hinges on the starting right tackle.

Q: Redskins were one of the most penalized teams last year. What are they doing to correct this? Anything?

Cam White @totalrelief 19h

JK: There’s not a whole lot you can do right now other than keep preaching the importance of discipline. Sounds as if that’s what they’ve done. The Redskins committed 132 penalties last season, but in Mike Shanahan’s first two years they had 99 and 101, respectively. I know when Shanahan was asked about it last season he was confident it would turn around because his teams usually do well in this area. But it never did turn around.

Q: Impact of each rookie in’13? Each seems to already have the potential to make this squad better

Jacob McNemar @jakemcnemar 3 Jun

JK: Every rookie in May seems to have the potential to help. Two years ago I had people telling me the 2011 draft would yield maybe eight starters, an absurdly high amount. The Redskins have more depth, which means they won’t need the same instant contributions from the rookies that they might have needed two years ago or even last year. I do think a few can help, like David Amerson and one or two of the safeties, Phillip Thomas and Bacarri Rambo. I like Jordan Reed, but I think there will be some adjustment. I like Chris Thompson, but durability and size are big concerns. If healthy Thompson will provide something they lack: an explosive back. I liked Brandon Jenkins’ 2010 tape more than in 2011; looked leaner and faster and he’s dropped weight to get back to his ’10 weight. But is there really a spot for him? Only on special teams right now. And if the other backs are healthy Jawan Jamison will have a tough challenge. Could be a practice squad guy. So I think there’s potential, but I like to see how things unfold. Don’t like rash judgments with rookies.

Q: Do you think it will be a good idea for RG3 to play at least one preseason game to make sure his knee holds up after game action

kaitlynn @katie11074 3 Jun

JK: Yes, I do. But for reasons other than just that. It’s more to get a little game action vs. someone else before the season starts. I think they’ll know how his knee is holding up after a string of practices. If he just goes and plays a couple series and doesn’t run their true offense, they might not truly know how his knee will hold up. Remember the differences in what we saw last summer and what we saw once the season began? There will be tests – fleeing the pocket vs. Chicago, for example. But he’ll get some of those in practice too.

Q: Anything that makes you think tom compton can make a push at RT this year?

Andrew Kinnear @drewkinnear 3 Jun

JK: Not yet. All I know is they like him and he’s worked on increasing his strength, a major drawback last year. Could he have fixed all his issues in one offseason? That’s a lot to ask of someone who spent 13 weeks on the practice squad. Still think he factors in their future – he also has worked a lot at left tackle this spring — but let’s see how he fares this summer. It’s why I love the one-on-one drills with linemen. They’re geared for D-linemen to succeed, but it can be eye-opening if an O-linemen consistently wins or loses.

Q: I haven’t read much about Hankerson, how’s he looking so far. Have you noticed improvements in his routes & concentration?

MJ TWISI @MJ_TWISI

JK: Right now receivers tend to look good. There’s no contact. I also expect a guy in his third year with talent to look good in May. Let’s see when the games begin in August. But Hankerson has looked solid. His focus improved last year, though he still dropped passes (like in the playoff game to Seattle) and short-armed a couple others. Hankerson could develop into a solid No. 3 receiver (some of the coaches think he can be a No. 2). I don’t like his feet in the open field, when trying to shake a defender after the catch. But he was good in and out of breaks; saw him create some separation in those cases. The bulk of his catches came vs. zone coverage, but his routes were fine.

Q:  1) Has Kai’s distance improved on kickoffs 2) Are Rak and Kerrigan working on new pass rush moves?

Devo @MarineSNPR8541 3 Jun

JK: 1) Don’t know. That’s a better question for training camp. 2) I haven’t asked them specifically, but I know Ryan wanted to improve his pass-rush repertoire and also improve the path of his basic rushes. He felt he was too cautious as a rusher, trying to contain the QB rather than get him at times. Rak talked about the need to increase his pass rush moves last summer, then would also say he doesn’t use moves. But he did add a spin move last season. I think the coaches would like him to have a better plan sometimes when rushing and setting up guys. Rak tends to go a lot by feel. He is effective, but if he wants to take that next so-called step he will need to improve in this area.

1. Here’s an update on Robert Griffin III. Know what’s not in here? Anything about wedding registries, injury controversies or any issues that have to be worked out with the coach. You’re welcome.

2. The perception is that the bulk of Alfred Morris’ yards came because of Griffin and the zone read option. If you think like that, you’ll be among those surprised when Morris excels in his second year. People point to the Browns game as proof that Morris couldn’t do anything without Griffin (27 carries, 81 yards). But consider: the Browns made it their goal to stop him, sending the backside ends and linebackers at him. What happened? It opened up the bootleg for Kirk Cousins. The reason the offense started to roll was because of the run game threat posed by Morris. The zone read was a factor, but not as much as you would think.

3. Morris impressed Mike Shanahan with his mindset in the offseason. Though Morris said he gained 10 pounds (of which he’s lost five), Shanahan said he likes the second-year back’s approach. “Anytime you have the success Alfred had as a rookie and you’re invited to speak you have a lot of banquets to go to, fundraisers to go to and sometimes guys lose perspective of what got them there. You don’t have to worry about that with Alfred. He’s in great shape. He does things the right way. He still goes out of his way to do as many charitable things as he can possibly do. That’s the way he’s made, but he takes care of business first…. He looks better in this camp than he did a year ago. You can see he’s practicing at a very high level.”

4. Young receivers Leonard Hankerson and Aldrick Robinson flashed again Thursday. This is where you must remember it’s May 30 and what the success of the spring does is make you wonder how they’ll be in training camp. But it’s better than them looking bad. Robinson has been active and consistent with his hands. “His consistency catching the ball now is as good as it’s been. Hopefully he can keep that growth pattern going.”

5. One issue Robinson had last season: blocking. Not good. We won’t see if he’s improved there until the preseason games begin.

6. As for Hankerson, he did a good job last year on crossing routes, when he’s able to use more of his speed to run away from defenders. I liked last season, too, how he came out of his breaks. But he has a ways to go.

7. OK, quarterback Pat White looked better Thursday but that’s mostly in comparison to how much he struggled last week. His footwork improved, but he’s still learning when and where to go with the ball and he threw high on too many passes. There’s still quite a gap between he and the other quarterbacks.

8. I liked Richard Crawford last year because he always found a way to make plays. But the No. 1 thing I liked about him was his intelligence. The kid will make an excellent coach one day. Not sure many corners spend as much time studying the game like Crawford.

9. Thursday, Crawford worked quite a bit in the slot. Saw him break up a deep pass, but also saw Hankerson get too much separation against him on a shallow crossing route.  Earlier, Crawford did an excellent job vs.  Joshua Morgan – and it was something a bit new for him. I love Crawford’s ability to mirror receivers off the line; he’s very patient. But he’s not a tall corner, nor does he have longer arms. So jamming wideouts was not part of his game. However, he did that to Morgan, using his left hand to jam him. When Morgan broke outside, Crawford was still all over him and broke up the subsequent pass that came their way.

10. Raheem Morris loved that last play by Crawford and shouted at Morgan, “Hey, get back in the huddle!”

11. This is probably a good time to let you know I talked to Crawford even more for the email report this week.

12. Yes, Kirk Cousins is working on the zone read, as he said last week. He’s not bad with his footwork; he’s obviously not as quick as Griffin, but he’s doing OK. Cousins did connect on a deep ball to Morgan after a zone read fake. One of the lighter moments of the day came when Cousins kept the ball around the right end after a fake with Doug Worthington in pursuit. As he, uh, sped around the end Cousins shouted, ‘Wuuu! Wuuu!”

13. Corner DeAngelo Hall intercepted Cousins on a throw to Morgan.

14. London Fletcher practiced. Jordan Pugh and Maurice Hurt were not at practice. Pugh was stuck in Texas after being unable to fly because of an ear infection while Hurt underwent arthroscopic surgery on his knee. Hurt should be ready for the start of training camp.

15. Linebacker Brian Orakpo was active, whether rushing vs. left tackle Trent Williams or anyone else. Orakpo showed good speed when lining up in the middle, then coming between right guard and tackle. He was tough to slow. The big thing with Orakpo, obviously, will be how his pec holds up.

16. Didn’t focus a whole lot on second-year tackle Tom Compton, but he did a good job on one rush vs. Rob Jackson. His footwork was excellent and his base was sound. But he also looked stronger at the point of attack; Jackson didn’t get around him.

17. Talked to Jarvis Jenkins last week for the email report about his first step and how he wanted to make it more explosive. That was his No. 1 focus in the offseason. In the couple plays I watched of him Thursday, Jenkins did look like he was taking a bigger first step and getting upfield a little better in rush situations. That’s what happened on a stretch zone to the right in which he forced the back to cut early because of his penetration.

18. Jenkins intercepted a tipped pass (courtesy of Stephen Bowen) in the backfield.

19. Shanahan on why he hired Keith Burns to coach special teams: “When I interviewed Keith, he blew me away, how organized he was and his teaching progression. He’s very organized with his thoughts. He has a very solid scheme. He has a lot of passion and enthusiasm for what he does.”

20. And now Shanahan on why he hired Larry Coyer to be an advance scout: “He’s a great football mind. He’s a guy that loves looking at film. He’ll be there at 7 in the morning and leave at 12 at night. I can’t think of a better guy to give the offensive coaches and defensive coaches updates on what he thinks the opposing teams will do.

“Some people don’t have the background to get a guy like Larry who has a background as a coordinator and coached all positions. He’s run a 3-4 and a 4-3 and he’s experienced on the offensive side of the ball. He can go through our tendencies. A lot of times during the season you’re so caught up in things you don’t dissect yourself. Larry can do that for our offense and defense. He has a good feel for our schemes.”