Redskins camps: Carlos Rodgers looks strong

By Paul Woody
Media General News Service
Published: July 29, 2008

ASHBURN—Good news came out of the morning practice for the Washington Redskins.

Cornerback Carlos Rogers practiced for the first time during training camp. Rogers suffered a serious knee injury last season in a game against the New England Patriots.

The surgery was so extensive that the Redskins weren’t sure if Rogers would be able to do anything during the preseason. He was a likely candidate to begin the season on the physically-unable-to-perform list. That would mean he would be out for at least six games.

Rogers took limited repetitions today but looked good when he was on the field. He recognized routes, was able to jump in front of receivers and covered well. He’s still a long way from being on the active roster when the season begins.

But he has taken his first step.

“He did real well, but it’s just practice,“ Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. “He’s in the mix, but I wouldn’t want to see him in a game yet.“

Rogers still might not be ready when the season begins. But the regular season still is more than a month away.

Backup middle linebacker H.B. Blades had arthroscopic surgery to repair torn meniscus in his knee this morning. Zorn said the surgery went well. Blades is expected back in four weeks.

Offensive lineman Jason Fabini became sick during practice, and left the field early.