So we now know who will be playing in this year's Super Bowl: the Denver Broncos in possibly Peyton Manning's final game and the Carolina Panthers in Cam Newton's first ever Super Bowl appearance. Interesting subplots are practically pouring out of this matchup already. But since absolutely everyone and their mothers are talking about this year's Super Bowl right now, we thought we'd take a look ahead to next year.
ESPN recently released a list of would be Super Bowl contenders broken down into specific categories. The Washington Redskins, who were pleased with their 9-7 season after years of futility, fell under the "talented but missing critical pieces" category.
"This might be a bit optimistic, but the Redskins have a good young core offensively, along the line and with talented targets in the passing game - tight end Jordan Reed and receivers DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon and Jamison Crowder," ESPN Redskins reporter John Keim wrote. "Quarterback Kirk Cousins showed he could make this offense click. Cousins needs to show he can lead to a team deep in the postseason, though (yes, the bar gets raised for him again). And the defense needs plenty of work, though they will be helped by the return of outside linebacker Junior Galette. Also, general manager Scot McCloughan's presence helps them in this quest."
It's true that this Redskins team has more to be proud about than practically any other unit in recent memory. Cousins led the NFL in completion percentage at 69.8 and Washington's passing game was dangerous when fully stocked with all of its weapons. But Keim is right to point out that there are still holes to fill.
Washington's defense ranked No. 28 in yards allowed per game (380.6) and No. 17 in points (23.7). The team's secondary was particularly porous thanks to injuries and sub-par play on the back end. The Redskins will need to add at least one starting safety this offseason in addition to bolstering the inside linebacker position and defensive line. The offensive line, anchored by All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and bolstered by a promising and young right side, could use help up the middle.
Yes, the Redskins deserve to celebrate their post-season appearance. But there is still a long way to go before Washington is considered a Super Bowl contender.
