Dec 04, 2011; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Anthony Armstrong (13) prior to playing the New York Jets at FedEx Field. the Jets defeated the Redskins 34-19. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE

Anthony Armstrong, or “AAA” as he’s commonly referred to, has been wearing a non-contact jersey for most of camp. Armstrong had a breakout year as a 27-year-old rookie in 2009, where he amassed 44 receptions for 871 yards. 2010 Was the essence of a “sophomore slump”, in which Anthony had only seven receptions for 103 yards. Armstrong has yet to play in the 2012 preseason, but is at “98 percent” as of late and will be able to go for this Saturday’s competition versus the Colts at FedEx Field. Although Armstrong is listed as fourth on the depth chart, he is aware of the recent performances by other receivers on the bubble.

“Aldrick [Robinson] had a great game” in Chicago, Armstrong said. Brandon “Banks has played well. [Dezmon] Briscoe is doing well. A lot of guys are doing a lot of special things. I have to find a way to do something,make my mark, at least throw my name in the hat.” - via CSNWashington.com

Number 13 will have his shot on Saturday against a rebuilding Colts defense. He’ll likely have to contribute on special teams as well. The Redskins are especially deep at receiver this year and may even have to stretch to fit seven players on the active roster, with Banks being the seventh/return man. Hopefully AAA can pull of a performance worthy of a roster spot.

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Last four in

1. Anthony Armstrong  – WR

Anthony Armstrong is likely one of the fastest players on the Redskins, but the question is whether or not his speed will be enough to make up for a lack of production from last season. The Redskins also just acquired reveiver Dezmond Briscoe, making the competition at receiver even tougher. Right now, I think Armstrong makes the team.

2. Grant Garner – C

At 6’3″ and 292 pounds, Garner is the only true center on the Redskins roster right now. From what I’ve seen thus far he’s done a good job. Things are just heating up, but I like this kid to make the roster given he shows improvement over the duration of camp. He needs to add a little bit of size at only 292.

3. DeJon Gomes – S

The Redskins have certainly added to their roster by subtracting the oft-injured LaRon Landry and O.J. Atogwe. Now the free and strong safety positions will be essentially up for grabs. Given his performance last year and the ability for new defensive back’s coach Raheem Morris to motivate, I think Gomes makes the squad even though I doubt he’ll start.

4. Kevin Barnes – CB

One thing you can’t say about Kevin Barnes is that he doesn’t play with heart. Barnes isn’t the fastest or the most skilled defensive back on the Redskins roster, but somehow he always manages to stick around. Drafting Richard Crawford and signing Cedric Griffin probably doesn’t make Kevin’s journey to the 53-man roster any easier. I still think he makes the squad.

First four out

1. Brandon Banks - WR 

July 26, 2012; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Brandon Banks (16) catches the ball during the first day of Redskins 2012 training camp at Redskins Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-US PRESSWIRE

Brandon Banks still does not look natural at the receiver position. I believe his luck runs out this preseason. Is Banks one of the fastest players in the NFL? Yes. Does his speed guarantee anything? No. When he’s dinged up, he’s ineffective and his numbers last year were mediocre at best. If and when somebody not wearing sixteen makes a play within the return game, that should be enough for Mike Shanahan to consider the novelty of Banks as obsolete. Look for one of the other NFC East teams to give Banks an immediate look, should he be released.

2. Neil Rackers – K

July 26, 2012; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Redskins kicker Neil Rackers (1) signs autographs while walking off the field after the first day of Redskins 2012 training camp at Redskins Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-US PRESSWIRE

Welp, somebody has to lose the kicker battle. Graham Gano has been fighting for his roster spot for what seems like forever and although I like Neil Rackers, I think Gano will do just enough to keep his job.

3. Reed Doughty – S

Dec. 18, 2011; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) goes up for a touchdown pass as Washington Redskins free safety Reed Doughty (37) tackles during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Redskins defeat the Giants 23-10. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

I believe Reed Doughty’s speed rating in Madden 13 is projected to be a few points lower than Peyton Manning’s. Manning might even be able to anticipate and break on the ball better. It always seems like Doughty is there right after the ball. I think that his luck has finally run out and when it comes to deciding between fresh blood and well, him, the Redskins will go with the former.

4. Terrence Austin – WR

July 27, 2012; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Terrence Austin (18) runs with the ball during Redskins training camp at Redskins Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-US PRESSWIRE

This one was tough. I like Austin, but he has to bring something to the table via special teams to make this roster. He’s quick, but the Redskins have fourteen (14) receivers on the roster. That number will likely be cut (at least) in half. Austin will be that seventh or eight guy, along with the aforementioned Brandon Banks, to not make the team. Again, it’s early. All it takes is one big play to change everything.

Riggo’s Rag will be following the road to the final 53 all camp long. Follow us on twitter @RiggosRag and @KMawyer2.

This offseason has been unlike any other in recent memory. “Lockout”, “stay”, “injunction”- these phrases are being used as commonly as “OTA”, “Mandatory” and “chemistry” were just a year ago at this time. Teams are suffering at the hands of owners and players that cannot reach a common ground.

As a fan, I wonder how players that cannot practice their profession manage to kill time during such a work stoppage? There are, of course, the obvious answers such as working out, training with professionals, hanging out with family members etc. For a select few Redskins players, there’s an app for their free time.

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