Instant analysis: Buchanon to IR, Thompson back up

By Rich Tandler

Redskins cornerback Phillip Buchanon’s season is over before it really got started. After he served a four-game suspension at the start of the season and he has been banged up since he was activated. He appeared in just one of the Redskins’ seven games this year.

The Redskins promoted rookie Brandyn Thompson (pictured) to the active roster in Buchanon’s spot. Here is a quick look at the moves.

--Buchanon played fairly well last year as the nickel back and spot starter (he started five games). He picked off two passes. This year the Redskins resigned him after the lockout ended despite the fact that they knew he was facing that four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

--It seemed apparent that the coaching staff wanted third-year corner Kevin Barnes to push Buchanon out. Barnes got most of the reps at nickel back during camp and in the preseason while Buchanon mostly watched.

--Buchanon did play in the fourth preseason game but he injured his shoulder in the game. He was unable to get treatment at the facility during his suspension, though he did get rehab instructions.

--We may well have seen the last of Buchanon. He was on a one-year deal and he will be 32 early next season. With the team trying to get younger, it would not appear that he has a place with the team.

--Thompson has had an up and down season, literally. He made the roster coming out of training camp and here is his career path since then:

Oct. 4: Waived from active roster

Oct. 5: Signed to practice squad

Oct. 28: Promoted to active roster

Oct. 31: Waived from active roster

Nov. 1: Signed to practice squad

Nov. 4: Promoted to active roster

What do you think of these moves? Let us know in the comments!

 

Comments

[Mike Shahan]

i think if Buchanon cant play then he should of been placed on IR a few weeks ago and Thompson might be good some day so why not give a rookie a chance to prove himself