Instant Analysis: Andre Roberts reassessing role
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In a recent interview with ESPN 980 Inside the Locker Room that when Andre Roberts signed with the Washington Redskins he had hopes of being the Skins number two receiver behind Pierre Garcon, but when Roberts signed with the Redskins DeSean Jackson was also a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Although he didn’t come out and say it, it seems that Roberts isn’t thrilled with being RGIII’s third option at wide receiver. In Arizona Roberts was the third receiver behind Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd. The Redskins were likely an attractive team to Roberts during free agency period because he would have an opportunity to be the number two receiver alongside Pierre Garcon.
With Jackson now in the mix, Roberts chance to be the number two guy has diminished. Roberts now finds himself in a similar situation that he attempted to leave in Arizona. Roberts is understandably frustrated with returning to the situation he thought he left in Arizona.
However, I think there is reason for Roberts to still enter the season with optimism. Even though Roberts finds himself in the same spot on the debt chart in Washington as he was in Arizona, in Washington Roberts will have a chance to make an impact in the kick and punt return game.
Additionally, with a strong receiving core around him in Washington and (if RGIII returns to 2012 form) a better quarterback to throw him the ball Roberts should have more of an opportunity to make an impact. Roberts will likely work out of the slot, and with defenses focusing on Garcon and Jackson, Roberts should find himself open, with opportunities to impact the game often.
Roberts was recently quoted saying: “Wherever they want to put me, I’m ready and willing to do it.” Roberts will get his opportunities in a receiving core that after Garcon and Jackson has a lot of questions, Roberts will certainly get his chance to be an impact player with the Skins, only time will tell at what position and in what way.
