Some franchises have the luxury of time, while others no longer need it. The Washington Redskins are stuck in the middle of the spectrum. The roster is a roller coaster to look at, and the team, while potentially capable of a 7-9 or 8-8 season, isn’t yet ready for playoff contention.
At the same time, however, Redskins head coach Jay Gruden needs to win to keep his job. After three seasons of fringe contention and little else, the ice beneath Gruden’s feet is as thin as it’s ever been. Injuries won’t be a competent excuse anymore.