Shawn Springs to report to Redskins OTAs June 5

Washington Redskins cornerback Shawn Springs has informed the team that he will report for Organized Team Activities at Redskins Park on June 5 according to a report in today’s Washington Post. Springs is recovering from an abdominal tear injury that dogged him all last season. When Springs could not start, he was inadequately replaced by Mike Rumph and Kenny Wright. Springs was placed on injured reserve when he suffered a broken scapula late December. The off-season was just as painful. The Redskins toyed with the idea of signing free agent cornerback Nate Clements, before his price exploded. The team angled for a trade of Springs and draft choices to Detroit for Dre’ Bly. When the Lions consummated that deal with the Denver Broncos, the Redskins sent feelers to New England for a similar deal for Assante Samuel. Meanwhile, the Redskins approached Springs to restructure his contract. He refused. Joe Gibbs reported meeting Spring in Phoenix last March during the owners meeting. That was described as a good meeting. However, Gibbs was openly frustrated when Springs declined to report for the team’s OTAs. Citing Gibb’s decision to allow veterans to work out on their own, and a mistrust of the Redskins front office feelings about aging players, Springs, 32, remained in Phoenix to work out with his personal trainer, Ian Danney.

“I’m going to have the best year of my career. I have to,” Springs said between explosiveness drills, sounding like a boxer in training. “Everybody thinks I’m finished. The only way to prove them wrong is come out and ball.”

Joe Gibbs made clear that improved coverage by the Redskins secondary and linebackers is key to boosting the pass rush. The team upgraded at middle linebacker by signing London Fletcher-Baker and by drafting LaRon Landry at safety. A healthy Shawn Springs is the shutdown corner piece of the formula. Gregg Williams’ defense demands man coverage by the corners to free up other positions to bring pressure. Shawn Springs is the son of Ohio State and Dallas Cowboy star Ron Springs. He was raised in nearby Silver Spring, Maryland, and attended Springbrook High School.