Training Camp Notebook: Team preps for first pre-season game

RICHMOND, Va. – We had some heavy rain overnight and early Tuesday morning in Richmond causing the Redskins to cancel the morning walk-through outside and take it indoors. The team went to the Convention Center to hold its walk-through.

Mike Shanahan was not with the team on Tuesday because he was attending the funeral of a friend. Running backs coach Bobby Turner ran the afternoon practice and then read a statement after practice. He took no questions and did not discuss who will play or who will not play on Thursday against Tennessee.

And despite the continuing threat of rain all day, 5,625 fans showed up for the afternoon practice.

Practice

The team wore helmets and shells for the afternoon practice, but no pads. They did not do any 7-on-7 drills today, therefore Robert Griffin III did not do much at all during practice.

Tight End Jordan Reed did not practice after hurting his foot yesterday. Running back Eric Kettani and guard Josh LeRibeus also sat out the afternoon practice. Running back Roy Helu continues to look very impressive coming back from a toe injury. If he can stay healthy, look for him to contribute a good amount this year. I would expect to see him carry the football Thursday.

Thursday’s Opener

As far as the starters are concerned for Thursday, I would not expect to see Trent Williams out there as he is still nursing the injured wrist. I would not expect to see much of DeAngelo Hall, if at all. Brandon Merriweather most likely will not play as well — he hasn’t seen much team action this summer yet.

I would expect to see David Amerson, Bacarri Rambo and Phillip Thomas get some good looks on Thursday. Amerson will most likely start the game and says he’s ready.

“For me to go out there and represent with the first team shows that the coaches have confidence in me and gives me motivation,” Amerson said.

We do know that Brian Orakpo will be on the field Thursday, his first action since week two last year when he left with the torn pectoral.

“I haven’t been out here in a while as far as live competition so I’m a little bit more excited than most people. So I’m going to go out here and try and do what I can,” he said.

Kirk Cousins will start the game and most likely will go 10 to 15 plays. But he said he’s ready to go with the flow and do whatever is asked of him on Thursday. He is looking forward to the opportunity to go through the routine of starting a game.

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