The Redskins have been through their first preseason game and got a good look at young running backs Ryan Torain and Keiland Williams. But Coach Mike Shanahan said after Sunday's practice that the club remains interested in veteran free agent Brian Westbrook.
"Like I told you, I'm not sure what direction he's going," Shanahan said. "But we've been entertaining that option. I'm not sure what direction he's going at this time."
Shanahan said there is no timetable for action. ESPN's John Clayton suggested late last week that Westbrook was likely headed to St. Louis by Monday, a claim the Rams denied. St. Louis, though, is one team that has remained interested in pursuing the former Philadelphia Eagle throughout his free agency. Denver, another potential suitor because of a backfield decimated by injuries, last week signed veteran Justin Fargas.
The Redskins rushed for 140 yards on 41 carries in Friday night's 42-17 preseason victory over Buffalo. Torain (17 carries, 62 yards) and Williams (11 carries, 51 yards, two touchdowns) got the bulk of the work. Veteran Larry Johnson is scheduled to get his chance this Saturday against Baltimore, with fellow veteran free agent signee Willie Parker playing more the following week against the New York Jets.
If you've got three backs on your roster that are past their prime, why not add a fourth? Westbrook could help Washington, especially due to his past connection with Donovan McNabb, but he's not going to be the fantasy star he used to be no matter where he goes.
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