NFL: Are the Washington Redskins the Team to Watch this Year?

The past few years have yielded teams climbing back from terrible records to become contenders in their divisions. These teams have included the Miami Dolphins and newly crowned Super Bowl champs, the New Orleans Saints.

All it takes to turn things around is a catalyst. A team needs someone who joins the organization or a player who brings something intangible to the field that everyone rallies around. This year, the Washington Redskins brought in someone who has provided a dramatic overhaul.

That man is ex-Denver Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan.

In one of the toughest divisions in the NFL, the Redskins sat sadly at the bottom of the pack, watching while the Cowboys and Eagles slid into the playoffs. Even the third place team in the NFC East, the Giants, managed to break even in the win-loss category.

This year, however, the 'Skins are poised to turn things around. Football-guru Shanahan has already brought about significant change in the organization. Famous for his grinding work ethic and control over all things football on a team, the Super Bowl-winning coach has already had a profound effect on the players.

Finally, there is respect. That is the difference between the road of Shanahan and dirt path of Jim Zorn. One is driven, the other is walked all over.

Players look up to Shanahan, who leads by example, spending countless hours watching footage and analyzing the game. He expects the same kind of work ethic from his players. It has left an impression on Albert Haynesworth, who has glowing words for his new coach.

Speaking of Haynesworth, in the spirit of change for Washington, the defense is also switching to a 3-4 alignment. This could bode well for Haynesworth, who may get more opportunities to line up at the end position. This likelihood would further increase if Washington manages to grab a top-five defensive tackle with their second round pick, especially since they already added Maake Kemoeatu in free agency.

With Brian Orakpo on the outside and London Fletcher anchoring in the middle, this switch may work better than some are forecasting. Of course, how they mold the talent to fit the formation will make a world of difference when they are finally tested in game situations.

The offense has drawn attention itself with a couple of free agency moves. Running back Larry Johnson will be nipping at Clinton Portis' heels, who is now reunited with his first NFL coach. This combined level of experience and pure talent could create a devastating one-two punch, assuming both veterans can keep their egos in check.

Incumbent quarterback Jason Campbell will be forced to step up his own game after the addition of Rex Grossman. If the 'Skins follow rumors and take a quarterback in the first round, it will be a free-for-all to earn the top spot.

The motivation of the front office has paid off, and positivity is emanating from the players. Wide receiver Devin Thomas is looking forward to earning a solid starting role, especially since Antwaan Randle El is no longer on the roster. DeAngelo Hall seems excited for the changing defensive scheme as well.

Shanahan has created a level of excitement that surrounds all aspects of the Redskins, from the players to the owners, coaches and fans.

This could be a good year for the team. They may not capture the top spot in the division, but last place could be in the past. While the Eagles and Giants have confusion surrounding their quarterback and linebacker positions, respectively, Washington is busy getting better, and drama free.