Washington Redskins Roster Review: Offensive Line

(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

It is imperative that the Redskins see strong play from the guard positions. Should Thomas and Dockery play like they did in 2005, when it was rare to see a bad day on the ground, expect the going to be that much easier offensively.

Good performances from those two will also take some pressure off of Rabach in the middle.

The starter at right tackle is a mystery right now. Jon Jansen was cut after spending his entire career with Washington. His departure leaves three choices at RT: Stephon Heyer, Jeremy Bridges, and Mike Williams.

Heyer, an undrafted free agent out of Maryland in 2007, has played with the Redskins for two seasons. In his rookie season, Heyer stepped up to the task as he started at RT for 15 games and held his own against the likes of Jason Taylor and Michael Strahan.

Last year he won the starting job over Jansen, but lost it to injury and never got back to form.

Heyer needs work in the run game, but he really impressed in pass protection in 2007. He has reportedly improved his conditioning and his technique will improve with time.

Offensive line coach Joe Bugel often raves about Heyer, and his experience with the 'Skins puts him on the inside track for the starting RT spot.

Bridges played with Carolina last year and has experience at tackle and guard. I would doubt he earns a starting role, but he will be a valuable backup because of his versatility.

Williams is a former first-round pick from Texas, where he played with Dockery. He proved to be a bust during his first stint in the NFL in which he played for Buffalo and Jacksonville.

Injuries and weight problems contributed to his failure, but the real reason according to reports, was that Williams lacked the work ethic necessary to play professional football.

Williams was out of football when Dockery persuaded the 'Skins to give him a shot. He is working his way down to a reasonable playing weight in hopes of competing for the right tackle spot.

Heyer has the upper hand in this battle, but his biggest challenger is undoubtedly Williams. If Williams can push himself and play with some passion, he will make the team at least as a backup.

He has the size to dominate on the line and the skills are there. It's simply a matter of him preparing for the rigors of a full season.

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