Bruce Allen: Franchise Resurrector?

     So what is the Redskins new GM supposed to do? He has inherited a team that has won just one playoff game this decade. The "Snyder Carousel" has also been in full effect in the 00's as turnover on the coaching staff and multiple free-agent busts have led to poor performance on the field. And I haven't even gotten to the terrible drafts yet, but where are Rod Gardner and Patrick Ramsey at now?

     Is it now safe to assume that Dan Snyder's "Montgomery Burns" act will be retired with the hiring of Bruce Allen? We can only hope so. In introducing Allen, Snyder did say he would have a lesser role in personnel issues. Maybe, just maybe, "Danny Boy" will just sign the checks- instead of putting his two cents into every transaction. Snyder's mismanagement of the Redskins is what has put this storied franchise in this position- perennial cellar dwellers of football's toughest division.

     The start of any successful team is in the trenches. Washington's offensive line has been a glaring weakness this season. Injuries have forced the Redskins to use eight different starting lineups on the offensive line- hence the 4-9 record. And the reports on franchise LT Chris Samuels have not been good at all. The neck injury he suffered against the Panthers will likely force him to retire. Washington will surely have a high pick in the first round of April's NFL Draft, do they draft a left tackle in the first round? Or will an experienced tackle be available in free agency? This should be where Allen starts, if he hasn't already. I'm sure Jason Campbell would appreciate it.

     It's now time to acknowledge the elephant in the room, Jim Zorn. After Monday night's disaster against the G-Men his days are surely to be numbered now. While Allen is playing nice in the media, I'm expecting some sort of announcement very soon. And if the stories and rumors that are being reported are true, I expect legendary Broncos coach Mike Shanahan will replace Zorn. 

     Allen and Shanahan will have their work cut out for them as questions abound. Do they keep Jason Campbell around? The QB will become a free-agent after the season, but he's never really had any stability in D.C. So does he part on his own terms? Who will remain from this year's roster going into the 2010 season? Tune in folks, "Bruce Allen: Franchise Resurrector" may make for a great show. Here's hoping it won't be a comedy, gorefest, or (yikes) a drama. As Bruce's father, the great George Allen said, "the future is now".