Redskin nation was all a buzz when the front office drafted Devin Thomas, Fred Davis and Malcolm Kelly with their first three picks in the draft. Guys like Mike Mayock said the Redskins are rolling the dice on Thomas because he only really had one good year in college despite his awesome measurables. Malcom Kelly’s knees and work ethic were questioned by some NFL scouts which led to his drop down the draft boards. Fred Davis was touted as a super talented kid with questionable work habits as well. In short, Vinny Cerrato took a gamble that all of these prospects would right their respective ships and become immediate contributors on a Redskin team that needs them now in order to compete.


Thus far the rookies have only proven their critics right. The USC product and Mackey award winning Fred Davis immediately over slept during his first team activity while both Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas failed their first physicals and came into camp out of shape. Both Kelly and Thomas suffered injuries limiting their reps in camp which set the entire team back because these rookies are needed on the field. The Redskins need the size and physical play of Kelly. They also need the speed and play making ability of Thomas. Fred Davis can contribute in two TE sets and on special teams.


The Redskins season is hinges on the play of these three rookies. History is not on the side of the rookies making major contributions but there are some notable exceptions. The good news is the Redskins have 15 games left to get these rookies on the field and in the mix of things. All three of them are talented enough to make an immediate impact so we can only hope that they get their heads screwed on straight and start treating this once in a lifetime opportunity for what it is. They have an opportunity to play an integral part in the resurrection of a franchise.


These Kids should also know that they are not alone and they have help if they are man enough to ask for it. In addition to their very capable position coaches they have tremendous mentors available to them like Art Monk, Gary Clark and Don Warren. Who better to school Malcolm Kelly on how to study defenses, run precise routes and realizing the importance of being a consistent target for his QB especially on 3rd downs than Art Monk? Who better to school Devin Thomas on how to use that incredible speed and athletic ability to stretch defenses and make big plays than Gary Clark? Who better to teach Fred Davis how to be better all around TE than Donnie Warren? I have no doubt in my mind that Art Monk, Gary Clark and Donnie Warren would be more than happy to mentor these kids if Kelly, Thomas and Davis truly want to make a difference and are not just playing football for a check. You can only learn how to win from winners and Monk, Clark and Warren are winners.

For better or for worse the Redskins future is in the hands of Kelly, Thomas and Davis. Redskin Nation can only hope that these rookies grow up fast.