Despite rumors to the contrary, it appears as if the Washington Redskins will enter the 2016 NFL season with both wide receivers DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon on the roster. Many assumed that one half of the duo could be gone either by trade or outright release, especially with Garcon's $10-plus million salary cap hit this year. That thought was only reinforced by Washington's selection of standout TCU wide receiver Josh Doctson in the first round as Jackson and Garcon head into the final year of their contracts with Washington.
But both veteran pass-catchers remain on the roster and are poised to start this season. Garcon, 30 this summer, has about $8 million in base salary and bonuses coming his way in 2016. Jackson, 29, will count $9.25 million against the cap this year before becoming an unrestricted free agent next offseason. Given the lack of contract talks for both players, it's possible that Washington is preparing to move on from one or both of them after this season.
Doctson's first-round selection indicates an eye for the future in D.C. A big-bodied pass-catcher with the ability to win 50/50 balls, he should be used in the red zone quite a bit this year before taking on a bigger share of the offense next season. Washington also just signed tight end Jordan Reed to a lucrative new extension worth $48.421 million over five years. Reed figures to be the centerpiece of Washington's passing attack, while Doctson may be expected to replace one of the veterans.
Garcon caught 72 passes for 777 yards and six touchdowns last year. His best season came in 2013 when he caught 113 passes for 1,346 yards and five scores. Jackson was sidelined for a handful of games in 2015 due to injury but provided an immediate impact as a deep-ball playmaker upon his return. In 10 games he caught 30 passes for 528 yards four scores. His average of 17.6 yards per catch led the team. In two previous seasons he topped 1,000 yards receiving.
As of now, Washington looks to be deep at the pass-catcher position. But come next year, changes may be made.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
