The Washington Redskins are in the playoffs thanks to the improved play of Kirk Cousins. The one-time backup took hold of the starting spot and never looked back and the franchise has benefitted as a result. Part of that improved play can be credited to the rise of DeSean Jackson who developed quick chemistry with the quarterback. However, injuries have been an issue for the receiver all season who now reportedly healthy for the first time.
Injuries have not been kind to Jackson. He missed time for an elbow injury. He then suffered a hamstring injury that left him out for several games. He then landed on the injury heading into the season finale for a knee problem. However, according to the Washington Post, Jackson is healthy heading into the Wild Card matchup against the Green Bay Packers and has not been limited in practice. That is good news for Redskins' fans who will need the offensive fire power against an improving Packers' defense.
The rise of Jackson has paired well with Jordan Reed who has become a nightmare matchup this year. The tight end has become a nice safety blanker for Cousins and he could take advantage of the Packers' defense. Head coach Jay Gruden noted that Reed has been an x-factor all season for the Redskins as he is playing with a lot of confidence heading into the playoffs.
"Jordan has done an excellent job as far as understanding where to lineup, understanding the concepts of the offense that we are trying to do," Gruden said, via FOX Sports. "But, you know, as a tight end, you have to understand coverages and leverages, and how to get open in man to man, and how to find holes in zones. If you're given option routes, (you need to know) how to set up your defender and work to the coverage. Right now, Jordan is playing with a lot of confidence, and he sees the field extremely well for a young tight end."
The biggest thing for the Redskins right now is not the health of Jackson, but the re-emergence of Alfred Morris. When the Redskins can get Morris moving early, they normally put themselves in a better position to win. The running back finished the season nicely with 100 yards in Week 17. That will be needed with Matt Jones not entirely healthy. According to FOX Sports, Jones has resumed practice, but his availability for Sunday is uncertain. That would mean Pierre Thomas or Chris Thompson see an extended role in the game. The Washington Post reports that Jones is practicing, but not well enough to play and could be left off the roster for the game. That would be a hit to the Redskins offense.
