While we all wish that the Redskins were the NFC representative in Super Bowl XLIII, that doesn’t mean that we can’t find a team to root for. Let’s take a look at the ties the Redskins have to the Cardinals and Steelers:<\/p>\n
The Cardinals don’t have any former Redskins on their roster, although if you believe the Anquan Boldin rumors, they may have some future Redskins. However, their coaching staff is full of men who once sported burgundy and gold:<\/p>\n
Ken Whisenhunt<\/strong>: Head Coach Russ Grimm<\/strong>: Assistant Head Coach\/Offensive Line Coach Jeff Rutledge<\/strong>: Quarterbacks Coach Ryan Clark<\/strong>: Free Safety
\nWhisenhut was a fringe player, being cut and re-signed frequently by the Redskins. He only actually appeared in two games in 1990 as an H-back, but failed to record a reception or rushing attempt.
\nRole on Team:10
\nStatus as Redskin: 1
\nOverall Factor: 5.5<\/p>\n
\nPlayed for the Redskins for 11 years, won three Super Bowls, was a four-time Pro Bowler and a three-time first team All-Pro. Member of the 1980s All-Decade Team. Generally considered the best lineman of the famed Hogs, and is the closest to Hall of Fame enshrinement (he finished as a finalist the past three years). Coached for the Redskins for 9 years, serving as tight ends coach from 1992-1996 and offensive line coach from 1997-2000. Inexplicably allowed to leave following Norv Turner’s ourster, and inexplicably not interviewed for the vacant head coaching job prior to the 2008 season.
\nRole on team: 6
\nStatus as Redskin: 10
\nOverall:8<\/p>\n
\nServed as third-string quarterback for the Redskins from 1990-1992. Enginereed one of the greatest comebacks in team history: Down 35-14 in a 1990 game against the Lions, Rutledge entered the game following an injured Mark Rypien and an ineffective Stan Humphries. Rutledge finished passed for 363 yards in the final two quarters and overtime, leading Washington to a 41-38 victory. Earned a Super Bowl XXVI ring as a holder. Finished his Redskins career with 644 passing yards, three touchdowns and a 85.6 quarterback rating.
\nRole on team: 2
\nStatus as Redskin: 3
\nOverall: 2.5
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\nTeam Total: 17<\/strong><\/p>\nPittsburgh Steelers<\/strong><\/h1>\n
\nClark stepped in for an injured Matt Bowen in 2004 and developed into a nice player for the Redskins. He led the team in tackles in 2004 with 91, and added 57 tackles and three interceptions in 2005. Despite solid play and the fact that Clark wanted to return to the team, the Redskins decided to sign Adam Archuleta instead. Clark signed with Pittsburgh, and has continued to be a valuable starter.
\nRole on team: 6
\nStatus as Redskin: 6
\nOverall: 6<\/p>\n