NFL Rumors: 5 Reasons Why We Should Care About Jabar Gaffney Trade to Washington

The Washington Redskins know how to make noise. Yesterday, the team made one of the biggest trades this offseason. Washington traded for former Florida Gators' standout Jabar Gaffney. The Denver Broncos, Gaffney’s former team, received defensive end Jeremy Jarmon in return.

Possibly the biggest splash of the offseason for the ‘Skins huh? Jarmon is a third year player out of Kentucky who has totaled 0.5 sacks for his entire career in D.C. He didn’t seem to fit into the team’s plans on defense so trading him away isn’t a big loss for them.

What’s really great for Washington is the addition of a veteran wide receiver for a team that’s lacking any real talent at wideout. It also brings a great deal of offensive power for the ‘Skins in the NFC East. There are more reasons to Gaffney’s importance to Washington including how his play will impact quarterback John Beck.

Here are five reasons why we should care about Jabar Gaffney’s arrival in D.C.

Veteran Leadership

May not seem like it, but Gaffney’s been in the league for almost 10 years. He started in 2002 with the Houston Texans and played the last two seasons as a Denver Bronco. In fact, his best season as a pro was in 2010 when he caught 65 balls for 875 yards.

Before Gaffney’s arrival, the most seasoned receiver on the team was Santana Moss. Every other receiver has less than five seasons in the NFL. Washington is entering the 2011 NFL season with a greenhorn as quarterback in John Beck and a three-year player at running back with Ryan Torain.

Gaffney’s experience in the NFL should bring stability to the ‘Skins receiving core and aid John Beck in his growth as a quarterback. Gaffney served as Kyle Orton’s security blanket at times last year in Denver and maybe he’ll do the same for Beck in D.C.

Improved NFC East Position

I still predict that Washington will finish last in the NFC East in 2011. The Cowboys are improved, the Eagles have progressed, and the Giants are still the Giants. Washington still has a couple of years before they make any noise.

I believe adding Jabar Gaffney and wide receiver Donte’ Stallworth should add needed explosiveness to their offense. The Giants added Prince Amukamara on draft day and the Cowboys are on the hunt for Michael Huff at safety.

Washington will need the help at wide receiver to best those players.

Help for John Beck

Beck was recently turned away from Redskins Park because the security guards didn’t recognize him. In a report by the Washington Post. Beck said that he wasn’t bother by it because he has yet to do anything in the league.  

In essence, he’s going to need help. Beck will need the assistance of Gaffney, Stallworth, and Moss if has any hopes of being successful in the rough and tough NFC East. Each guy has enough experience to guide the young quarterback along and aid in his success as field general for the ‘Skins.

Improved Defense

The Redskins finished 31^st in the league last season in total defense. That means that they were second to last in the entire league.

The entire league!

Washington’s offense left their defense in some awkward spots last year and it was partly due to their poor play and shoddy playcalling. This year it should be a little different as their offensive disposition should be much improved.

If the offense places the defense in the same position as it did last year, then Gaffney’s arrival means nothing. I believe, though, his presence along with that of Stallworth and Moss should give the defense improved field position.

More Offensive Firepower

If anything the arrival of Gaffney will make the Redskins a more formidable opponent. Gaffney’s numbers last year prove that he needs the right system and enough opportunities to showcase his talents.

If Beck is as good as head coach Mike Shanahan is hoping, then Gaffney’s presence on the field will show statistically.

The Redskins ranked 18^th in total offense last year where they averaged 244 passing yards per game. If Beck is able to tick that total up to about 255 or so, then that would result in top-10 numbers and a much better Redskins offense.