Veteran James Thrash was released last week by the Redskins after he failed a physical. His neck injury required surgery to correct in a quick manner and he balked — totally understandable after a long and successful NFL career.
Since returning to the Redskins in 2004, J.T. made his mark on special teams, the same year special teams coach Danny Smith came to the Redskins with the Gibbs Version 2.0 original staff. To that end, I to Smith upon his return from a weekend vacation to Florida for his thoughts on Thrash. Smith’s comments:
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“I love the guy,” Smith said. “I’m going to miss him a lot and in a lot of ways. You talk about work habits, detailing your work, your effort, your commitment, your studying. He could do anything and would do anything. A lot of this stuff [on special teams] is the same. But he sit in the same seat every day for five years and he would take every single note. He could play every position. Sure, he’s older now, but shoot, I’m going to miss him.”
Thrash filled a lot of roles on special teams and his departure will make for an interesting decision come early September. Can one receiver fill his spot? Will another position group suffer because it will take two receivers (or at another position) to fill his role? Expect plenty of competition during the preseason games.
Ryan O’Halloran
