By Ryan O'Halloran
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
June 20, 2006
Jason Campbell clings to Jan. 2, 2005, when he completed his college career at Auburn with a Sugar Bowl victory over Virginia Tech.
When he feels overwhelmed learning the intricacies of a Washington Redskins passing offense that includes 30 pass protections and myriad formations and patterns, Campbell thinks about the last time he started a game.
When he feels down about spending a second season on the bench, Campbell focuses on the last time he was in charge of a huddle, a game plan and his team's chances for victory.
Campbell, a first-round pick by the Redskins last year, remains the team's quarterback-in-waiting. He acknowledges that in the long run, it's best he learn by watching, but he occasionally wonders what would happen if he learned by playing.
"If you're a competitor, it's not easy because, deep down, you want to play," he said. "But Mark [Brunell] is the guy that took us to the playoffs and he's the first guy coming back this year and rightfully so. In my position, I have to be patient and wait my turn. Quarterback is different than the other positions because I have to learn the offense inside and out so I can be comfortable out there.
"It feels like a long time since I played in a game. It's tough to watch, but at the same time, it's helpful."
During this past weekend's minicamp at Redskin Park, Campbell's comfort level was evident. He looked sharp in 7-on-7 passing drills and composed at the line of scrimmage. His next test will come in the preseason, when he is expected to receive substantial playing time and a chance to win the No. 2 position behind Brunell.
For the last several months, a large binder containing the Redskins' offense has been Campbell's constant companion and he has spent hours working with associate head coach Al Saunders and quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor.
Their goal is to get Campbell ready to play if needed, but more importantly, prepare him so when he does become the starter, the Redskins don't take a step back.
"It's tough mentally when you're the third guy because you know you're probably not going to play," coach Joe Gibbs said. "Now he's very much in the plans. He's everything we thought we got. He did it all in high school. He did it all in college. We think he's going to do it all up here.
"Whenever Jason gets to play, I'm going to be excited about it because he has a lot to bring. When that's going to be, I don't think anybody knows."
Safe approach
Page two of the article
