ASHBURN, Va. -- The Washington Redskins relied on veterans for too long, leaving them unable to build a foundation or a solid core. At the end of last season, they ranked low on contributions from players 25 or younger. That might be changing.
Through four games, a number of young players have produced for Washington and are part of the reason the Redskins now are 2-2. If they keep developing, the Redskins will finally have a foundation around which to build.
Here are the players 25-and-under with key roles thus far this season:
WR Jamison Crowder (22): Just took over for Andre Roberts; will continue to improve. Excellent quickness and a more reliable target than Roberts.
S/CB Kyshoen Jarrett (22): Developing into a personal favorite because of his smarts and toughness. Has handled the slot duties in a mature manner, showing poise and aggressiveness.
G Spencer Long (24): Had a solid first start; better at pulling to his left than the right. But definitely handled end Fletcher Cox on a few occasions. Worked well with Trent Williams. A good start to build upon.
LB Trent Murphy (24): Had a solid showing vs. the Eagles. Still viewed as more of a two-down edge player, but he did apply more pressure Sunday. Better with his hand in the dirt. Eventually he'd be a backup behind either Preston Smith (or, next season, Junior Galette). But he'd provide solid depth.
LB Preston Smith (22): Will continue to split duties with Murphy; seems to take a step then stagnate for now. He's learning how to handle being a professional and being consistent in how he practice and plays.
OT Morgan Moses (24): Did not have his best game vs. the Eagles and he sometimes struggles moving to his left for cut blocks. But he's also new and has had some good moments and quiet games in protection. He has not been an issue and that's a start for this position and the Redskins.
G Brandon Scherff (23): At times has worked well on combination blocks and getting to the linebackers. Can play with power. He's still inconsistent, but he's only played four games. Scherff will keep improving under Bill Callahan.
RB Matt Jones (22): The plan remains for Alfred Morris to get around 65 percent of the carries. But Jones already has shown he's capable of big games. He can learn by watching Morris' vision and patience.
WR Ryan Grant (24): Likely always a backup receiver capable of filling in; terrific route runner who can win deep despite a lack of speed with his double moves.
S Trenton Robinson (25): A surprise starter after Duke Ihenacho was injured; Robinson is tough but still working on consistency and helping corners on deep passes. Has to develop consistency and make the plays that are available. Might be a future backup, but can help in that role and on special teams.