ASHBURN, Va. -- The Redskins do not have a practice Friday, instead they’ll have a closed walk-through at Andrews Air Force Base, visit with the military and then attend the Welcome Home Luncheon at the National Harbor. It’ll be the first for coach Jay Gruden. And, while this event rarely produces news, there is the occasional good speech by the head coach. Maybe the one that is still talked about? Marty Schottenheimer’s in 2001 when he started tearing up during his speech. For the media, it's sit back, have a good meal and babysit in case someone says something newsworthy.
Here are a few things to know for today:
I mentioned this Thursday morning, but I did talk to safety Bacarri Rambo about his improved play -- and what he must do to continue getting better. Let’s not go crazy over him just yet; it’s only two preseason games. However, it represents a better start for a guy who would have been cut had he not shown this improvement. Look for the story Friday afternoon (also have a mailbag posting around 10 a.m.)
Tracy Porter won’t play against the Ravens Saturday night because of a hamstring issue. I’ve been asked a couple times if there’s some reason there are more hamstring injuries this camp and the honest answer is I don’t know. I do know that some years are like this, where one injury seems to occur in a few players. Something worth looking into, however.
For what it’s worth, nose tackle Barry Cofield practiced Thursday and will play Saturday. Also, running back Lache Seastrunk missed practice Thursday because of a death in the family.