Redskins OC Kevin O’Connell brings play calling common sense, potential

Sense and personnel meshing together

There’s still a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the Redskins offense, but there is definite potential in the amount of weapons they have, and with Kevin O’Connell calling the shots, the unit could be due for a facelift.

That said, there’s little clarity as to the degree of influence O’Connell will have with the Redskins offense. He could have full reign. He could be a glorified consultant to Jay Gruden. But whatever the case, O’Connell’s voice is a good one to have in tow, and if he does have control of the game script, with input from Gruden, then he has an improved personnel group at his disposal.

In the running back room, there exists a diverse array of weapons in Derrius Guice, Chris Thompson, and Bryce Love, if Love can get healthy and add receiving consistency to his game. In the receiving core, Terry McLaurin and Paul Richardson add speed and nuance, while Trey Quinn has the confidence of the coaches to create space up the middle of the field. Cam Sims and Kelvin Harmon have the size and strength to compete in roles of their own, and Josh Doctson is still a stellar athlete who could see an uptick in numbers with a more contemporary offensive mind utilizing his talents.

Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis cannot be forgotten as big play threats, either, and with Dwayne Haskins, a quarterback with whom O’Connell has history and chemistry, the offense could operate much more smoothly in 2019.

Of course, this is all theoretical. There are dozens of question marks. The offensive line has to stay healthy. Paul Richardson has to stay healthy, which he’s rarely done. Jordan Reed has to stay healthy, which he’s rarely done. Vernon Davis is 35 years old. Derrius Guice can provide an impact as a runner and receiver, but he’s coming back from a torn ACL. So is Bryce Love. Trey Quinn is unproven. Terry McLaurin is unproven. Cam Sims is unproven. Kelvin Harmon is unproven. Dwayne Haskins is unproven. Kevin O’Connell is unproven.

But while there is so much uncertainty surrounding Washington’s offense, one thing is certain: There are enough traits to work with. The potential is there. And perhaps, with Kevin O’Connell, the Redskins can transcend into the current era of football. Where they should have been all along.