Washington Redskins: Analyzing the first official depth chart

The Washington Redskins released their first official depth chart. And while depth charts mean nothing, some things do stand out.

Ahead of their first preseason game of 2017, the Washington Redskins released a freshly updated depth chart.

Offensively, few things stand out outside of the team listing Josh Doctson as a starter in three receiver sets. That’s to be expected, but Doctson’s current hamstring injury certainly will keep him out of preseason action.

Outside of that, nothing was a surprise. Rob Kelley, as expected, is listed as Washington’s first-string running back.

One mild surprise, which isn’t noted on the depth chart is what’s going on at left guard. Veteran Shawn Lauvao remains the starter and third-year player Arie Kouandjio is lining up often with the third team. Many were hoping Kouandjio would push Lauvao this camp. It hasn’t happened. At this point, he’s battling for a roster spot and undrafted rookie, Kyle Kalis, is playing ahead of him right now.

Defensively, things are a little different. Surprisingly, veteran Phil Taylor is listed as the Redskins’ No. 1 nose tackle. Taylor, 29, is a former first-round pick of the Cleveland Browns and has missed the last two seasons with injuries. He has a prime opportunity this preseason to not only earn a roster spot, but to force his way into starting lineup.

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Another surprise is the Redskins listing veteran Ziggy Hood as one of the starters at defensive end ahead of free-agent pickup Terrell McClain and first-round pick Jonathan Allen. You shouldn’t read too much into this. Allen has looked dominant in camp and will find himself in the starting lineup sooner rather than later. Hood, McClain, Allen, Stacy McGee, Matt Ioannidis and Anthony Lanier should all make the team and see playing time this fall.

Another battle going on is at inside linebacker. The depth chart lists last year’s starters, Will Compton and Mason Foster, as No. 1s on the depth chart. That’s accurate. However, free-agent acquisition Zach Brown will also work with the first team. Brown is expected to help Washington cover tight ends and is brings elite speed to the defense. All three players should be co-No. 1 on the depth chart. This battle is that close.

Finally, Washington has Preston Smith listed as the starter at outside linebacker opposite of Ryan Kerrigan. This is the scenario the Redskins would love to see. Unfortunately, Smith twisted his ankle and will miss some time this camp. His injury has opened the door for returning veteran Junior Galette and rookie Ryan Anderson. Again, all of these players, along with Trent Murphy, will see time and should figure into the mix.

Next: NFL Power Rankings 2017: Preseason Week 1

Fans shouldn’t read too much into a preseason depth chart. However, for certain positions, the depth chart can give you glimpses of how coaches feel about specific players.