Five Reasons to believe in Washington this year

The Washington Redskins have failed to reach the postseason since 2015. However, there is reason to believe that this may be the year that ends the skid. The Redskins are headed into their fifth offseason under Head Coach Jay Gruden, and he has a reliable veteran quarterback manning his offense. Here’s five reasons why you should believe in Washington this year.

5. The acquisition Alex Smith

Smith heads into 2018, beginning his 13th season in the National Football League. The pure fact that Washington traded for Smith should be a promising sign. You have to believe the move shows that the front office thinks that this is a win-now team and that the Redskins aren’t rebuilding with Smith, they’re reloading.

4. Jay Gruden

Gruden was signed to a contract extension last offseason and that is big news as he was the first head coach in the Synder era to receive an extension. This should bring some stability to the organization while other positions (QB, WR) are rapidly changing. Gruden has also been praised for having a user-friendly scheme that Smith should get accustomed to quickly. Although fans may sometimes call for his firing, Gruden’s long(er) tenure is a good sign that this team can win with him.

3. Artillery

Washington will head into 2018 with a great set of weapons on offense. Headlining the group is Derrius Guice, Paul Richardson along with Jordan Reed. This is an intimidating trio, when Reed is healthy. These three will be the workhorse for Washington this season.

2. Injuries

The injury total for the Redskins last year was incredibly large. It’s unlikely that the injury bug will bite as frequently this year. Less injuries is always a good thing, and with its brand new training facility in Ashburn, Washington should be healthier this year.

1. A revamped D-Line

Finally, with Washington addressing the defensive line, adding DE Jonathan Allen, DT Da’Ron Payne, and DT Tim Settle over the past two offseasons. This core of young guys should propel the defense in 2018. The line also has two rising stars in Anthony Lanier and Matt Ioannidis. The line could surprise this year, and act as a catalyst for the rest of the defense.