The Washington Redskins lost their preseason finale to the Baltimore Ravens Thursday night 30-20, however the game was more about those players who are trying to make the roster. Based off of Thursday night’s game, here are my predictions for those close roster battle. Reminder teams must cut their rosters . down to 53 players by 4pm Saturday. They can sign players to the practice squad on Sunday. Any players with less than 4 years of NFL service must clear waivers before they can be signed to a practice squad.

Running Back- This was the most intriguing battle and after last night there was a clear winners and losers in the group. Rob Kelley put on a masterful performance that we had not seen out of him since 2015. Looking healthy, faster, and showing a pass catch ability, Kelley certainly impressed last night. Kapri Bibbs also impressed as a do everything player. Bibbs made some good catches as the third down back, good pass protection, and played multiple special teams. Bibbs can be the backup for Thompson as well between the tackles runner. Samaje Perine was having a good night as well until he fumbled. Coach Gruden mentioned it in his press conference as well. De’Von Smith showed some ability as well.

Projection: Adrian Peterson, Chris Thompson, Rob Kelley, Kapri Bibbs- on the roster

De’Von Smith- practice squad

Samaje Perine- cut

Wide Receiver-  Trey Quinn, Brian Quick, and Cam Sims were thought to be fighting for the last two wide receiver spots on the roster with Simmie Cobbs and Darvin Kidsy fighting for practice squad positions. Trey Quinn had great night and he really didn’t do much catching the football. Quinn had three receptions however he also returned punts and downed a punt on coverage. That solidly locked Quinn on the team. Brian Quick caught a touchdown last night outside of that he did not flash much. Cam Sims did not do anything special last night but had a few chances on jump balls that weren’t completed. Simmie Cobbs had an impressive deep catch along the sideline to lead the team with 75 receiving yards. Darvin Kidsy had five catches and showed strong hands.

Projection: Trey Quinn, Brian Quick- on the roster

Cam Sims, Simmie Cobbs- Practice Squad

Darvin Kidsy- Cut

I do see a scenario where Sims makes the roster, Quick is cut and Kidsy is on the practice squad. The Redskins must careful because teams that need receivers may snatch Sims or Cobbs off the practice squad.

Linebackers- The last major position group with tough choices were the linebacking corps. Of those who played Thursday night some had better impressions than others. Shaun Dion-Hamilton missed a big tackle in the hole on a second and long and the running back ran for 33 yards. Dion-Hamilton did have a good third tackle late in the game. Martrell Spaight did not pop during the game but he was steady and always in position. Pete Robertson did record a sack in the game. The number of linebackers kept will depend on how many offensive lineman the team will keep

Projection: Shaun Dion-Hamilton, Zach Vigil, Martrell Spaight- on the roster

Pete Robertson-cut I believe the team would rather keep inside linebackers versus a fifth outside linebacker. 

Other Positions-  I believe the team will keep eight offensive lineman to start and look to the wavier wire. This gives the team the ability to keep nine linebackers and a fifth safety who I believe will be Kenny Ladler.