Time for the rookies to grow up
By: Turner Sports Desk

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.