DeSean Jackson

DeSean Jackson's absence opens up targets for others -- and given the Redskins’ skill-position talent, that’s not bad at all. Jamison Crowder flourishes underneath because he has become an excellent slot receiver, but also because defenses focus extra attention elsewhere.

Jackson’s absence also means more time for Ryan Grant, a practice all-star who has yet to translate that into games. He does not possess deep speed and has never been a threat after the catch and stumbles too often. Perhaps Rashad Ross can scare a defense deep.

The story went on to say without Jackson, ironically, the Redskins might have more chances to go downfield in favorable coverages. Jackson scares teams on multiple routes -- deep crossers, for example; it’s also not just about speed as Jackson tracks the ball very well. Speed alone does not make you dangerous, but it certainly helps.