RICHMOND, Va. -- A daily review of the hot topics coming out of the Washington Redskins training camp:

Redskins defensive end Stephen Bowen, recovering from microfracture surgery on his right knee, said he’s confident he’ll return before the season opener. Bowen, who underwent the procedure in December, said he’s experienced a “little swelling” but that it hasn’t gotten any worse. If healthy, Bowen would be an important part of their defensive line rotation. “It’s just time,” Bowen said. “If I had to right now, a do-or-die, if it’s the Super Bowl, I’d be out there…. I’m feeling good.” Bowen remains on the physically unable to perform list.

Offensive tackle Tyler Polumbus missed practice for personal reasons and could end up missing a few days. Third-year lineman Tom Compton took over for Polumbus. Meanwhile, several Redskins missed practice with hamstring injuries: receiver Pierre Garcon, who took part in individual drills before sitting out; safety Phillip Thomas; and defensive end Doug Worthington. Linebacker Adrian Robinson also missed practice and was rehabbing off to the side. Running back Evan Royster returned to practice after missing the previous three days with a hamstring issue.

After watching newcomer Shawn Lauvao in the spring, Redskins coach Jay Gruden had some doubts. The free-agent signee had not shown the Redskins what they were hoping to see. He wasn’t getting his timing down on the snap count. He wasn’t getting to the linebackers. Now, Gruden said Lauvao is doing all of that and he’s been solid in one-on-one pass-protection drills as well. “We were a little worried; I’m not going to lie,” Gruden said. “But he’s probably the most improved player from OTAs until now.”

The Redskins spent a lot of time working on third-down plays Wednesday, with the defense showing a lot of blitzes. The offense ran several screens, which were designed as much to prepare the defense as the offense. Gruden said they’ve already installed all of their red-zone package and likely will focus on installing their two-minute plays Wednesday night and, perhaps, more of their no-huddle. After that, it will be goal-line and short-yardage situations.