Riding into the season, Washington Redskins fans had high hopes. The Redskins won the division the previous season, Tony Romo was injured, and the Philadelphia Eagles had a rookie quarterback. The New York Giants were adjusting to a new head coach. It appeared that the ‘Skins would have a clear path to the NFC East crown, but as the season unfolded, fans were shown otherwise.

After their Monday Night Football 38-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, fans were exposed to the feeling that would stick throughout the season. A feeling ‘Skins fans have known for a while – disappointment. The remainder of the season had its ups and downs. From Ricky Jean Francois letting everyone know “We run the East,” to inexcusable loses to teams that had already lost playoff hopes, such as the Arizona Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers. The season came to a close as the Redskins found themselves in a win-and-in situation against the Giants and fell flat. The offense that was ranked 3rd overall in total offense managed only 10 points in the game. This was surprising, being that the Redskins defense finished 28th in the league, and had a historically bad third down defense.

To any non-biased observer the Redskins were likely doomed to make it past the first round of the playoffs. Yet, to Redskins fans who have sat through one miserable season after another, there was a chance. Either way without a stronger defense, the Redskins were not cut out for the playoffs.

I say this with a heavy heart, but luckily the Redskins run in the playoffs was over before it ever began. The Giants protected ‘Skins fans from the pain of a playoff loss that would have been inevitable with the way the defense was being called and the way that the group as a whole played.

For Redskins fans, though, there is a silver lining. The Redskins get an earlier pick in the draft, pick number 17, which can be put to good use. The Redskins are also an up and coming team, which is evident based on the offense. ‘Skins fans can be excited to see players like Jamison Crowder and Su’a Cravens develop.

Oh wow.



Su'a Cravens picks off Eli Manning.

And that should do it… #WASvsNYG https://t.co/FmxFRRIu0g — NFL (@NFL) September 25, 2016

With a few more pieces the Redskins could become quite dangerous. There is also no doubt that the players all learned lessons from the disappointment that was this season. The Redskins have a good shot at becoming contenders for seasons to come. Given a little more time, the Redskins could realistically “Run the East” and more. Keep your chin up, Redskins fans, the future is starting to look bright.