Redskins release CB Adonis Alexander from the practice squad
By Ian Cummings
The Redskins have parted ways with a homegrown project player at cornerback.
When the Washington Redskins used a sixth-round pick in the offseason of 2018, to nab former Virginia Tech cornerback Adonis Alexander in the NFL’s supplemental draft, there was some modest optimism surrounding the move.
Alexander was regarded as a high-upside player who had battled off-the-field issues throughout his time in college. In Washington, he’d be united with two of his former teammates at Virginia Tech in Tim Settle and Greg Stroman, and he’s also join his former defensive backs coach, Torrian Gray.
In 2018, Alexander played in nine games for the Redskins, primarily as a special teamer. He logged four total tackles and was expected to carry his reserve role into the 2019 season. After the signing of Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and the acquisition of Jimmy Moreland, however, the odds became stacked against Alexander. He was released in final cuts on September 1, and subsequently signed to the practice squad.
Now, just a little more than a year after starting the experiment, the Redskins have opted to part ways with Alexander. According to ESPN’s John Keim, the Redskins have released Alexander off of their practice squad, presumably freeing up a space for another player.
Alexander had yet to turn 23 years old in his time with the Washington Redskins, but it was clear that finding a role for him would be difficult at best. Alexander has an impressive 6-foot-3 frame, but he isn’t the fastest defensive back, and his understanding of the NFL, at the professional pace, wasn’t where it needed to be for him to compensate for his lacking physical traits.
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In the context of other storylines currently surrounding the Redskins, the release of Alexander is a minor occurrence. But perhaps, for the front office, it may be another reminder that the current staff isn’t as adept at developing players as they might have thought before the season. Alexander may get another chance from a different NFL team. But Washington was unable to unlock his potential.