Redskins: Five players to watch in Week 2 vs. the Cowboys
By Ian Cummings
No. 2 – Redskins SS Landon Collins
In one sense, Redskins premier free agent signing Landon Collins lived up to the expectations bestowed upon him by his hefty contract in Week 1. He logged eight total tackles, and he moved well in the box, wrapping up ball carriers on a consistent basis.
In another sense, however, Collins’ performance left something to be desired. He was one of the team’s better players on defense, but still, the team lacked that game-changing presence. Some players can make momentum shifting plays and hits. Collins will need to fill that role in Washington at some point.
Against the Cowboys, a trepidatious situation could yield opportunity for Collins. The secondary is still experiencing bouts of miscommunication, and starting free safety Montae Nicholson might not play in Week 2, as he’s experiencing a minor foot injury.
If the Redskins have to trot out Troy Apke or Deshazor Everett at free safety, then Collins becomes even more important, not simply to offset the effect of inferior talent alongside him, but also to act as the quarterback for the secondary, and to have everyone in the right position before the snap. It’s a tough position to be in. But it’s what Collins was paid to do.