As Redskins coach Mike Shanahan officially commences the on-field portion of his new job with a voluntary minicamp, the biggest news comes from a trio of players who have not volunteered to show up.
The absence of quarterback Jason Campbell, who signed his restricted free agent tender to facilitate a trade five days ago, isn’t a surprise -- but unless the team has decided to cut him if they can’t trade him, it makes sense for him to be learning the new offense and contributing to the pass-throwing efforts to the various receivers, tight ends, and running backs.
And while not welcome, the decision of defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth to stay away isn’t a surprise, either. Still, with the Redskins installing a new 3-4 defense and Haynesworth having played his entire career in a 4-3, the absence of Haynesworth from the increasingly important offseason drills, during which much of the offensive and defensive installation occurs, will make it much harder for him to make a meaningful contribution come September, if he isn’t traded.
Most recently came word that linebacker Rocky McIntosh is staying away, too, and that he possibly could be on the trade block.
The good news is that the rest of the team is present, led by new quarterback Donovan McNabb. Still, Shanahan won’t be happy about the absences -- and that could be the specific emotion that each player hoped to evoke.