Armstrong can't rest on his laurels

Anthony Armstrong is taking nothing for granted.

Last year, after completing the climb from the Intense Football League to a starting wide receiver in the NFL, he was one of the few bright spots on a dismal offense. As a 27-year-old rookie he caught 44 passes for 871 yards, an impressive average of 19.8 yards a catch.

However, after working his way into his job, he is not about to get complacent. “Right now, I’m still trying to make the team,” he said after the first practice of training camp on Friday.

Armstrong has some reason to feel uncomfortable even after his impressive debut last year. The Redskins drafted three receivers in April. Then, earlier this week, they agreed to contracts with veterans Jabar Gaffney and Donte Stallworth.

“I told coach Shanahan I was mad at him for it but I appreciate the competition,” Armstrong said. “Sometimes you need somebody there to push you to a higher level.

“You can use that as a stepping stone or you’re going to get stepped on.”

While some other receivers became spectators during special teams drills, Armstrong was full participant, fielding punts and working on drills as a gunner in punt coverage. He was doing the same things a year ago while he was trying to make the team.

“Nothing changes,” he said. “I’ve got kickoff, I’ve got punt, I’ve got all that stuff. I’m still going on the same grind and the same mentality.”

As long as he keeps that mentality, he should have a spot on the team.

 

Comments

[Jeremy]

Armstrong is as much a lock as anyone to make the team. With his work ethic and determination, he shows excellent leadership for only being a 2nd year player.

[True Religion Outlet Online]

Unless Dubinsky is seeking a career contract for eight or nine years, there is no reason why the Blueshirts shouldn't want to give in and lock Brandon up long-term. The next time Dubinsky hits free agency he will be unrestricted, which means the Rangers would have to pay more in order to keep him on Broadway.