Brandon Banks Not Ruled Out For Redskins Game Against The Eagles
Special teams dynamo Brandon Banks was originally expected to miss 2-3 weeks after knee surgery, but coach Mike Shanahan hasn't ruled him out for this Monday's game against the Eagles.
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When it was reported that Redskins special teams dynamo Brandon Banks had to undergo knee surgery, it was originally assumed that he'd miss 2-3 weeks. However, in his press conference today, Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said he may actually be able to play against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night.
"There's a chance," said Shanahan, who usually tries to disclose as little as possible about injuries because he doesn't want to clue in opponents. "A lot has to do with his size. Not as much weight on that knee. We're keeping our fingers crossed. He's working pretty hard. He's going through rehab and is on the treadmill. He was on the treadmill to do, got some good work in. It's a good sign. Not much swelling."
Five quickies from Shanahan. 1. Said Banks' size (155 lbs) could speed up his return from surgery. Would be less than 2 weeks post surgery.
Considering Shanahan's vagueness with injury updates in the past, most reporters seem to think this is just a show of gamesmanship toward Banks and the Eagles. Shanahan said he would know for sure later in the week.
We now have clarification about how long Brandon Banks will be out of the Redskins lineup while he recovers from knee surgery. According to Rich Campbell, coach Mike Shanahan said that bans is expected to muss 2-3 weeks.
This is bad news for the Redskins because Banks had been one of the bright spots so far this season. His skills as a kick returner have helped give a struggling offense a shorter field to work with. Without him, the SKins might have to start each drive from deeper in their own territory. We also have some information from Ryan O'halloran on who will be replacing Banks as the Skins' return man.
3. Special teams players said Phillip Buchanon will replace Banks at PR and Chad Simpson/Byron Westbrook will handle KRs.less than a minute ago via webRyan O'Halloran ryanohalloran
Buchanon certainly has the speed to be an effective return man for the Skins, but we won't really know for sure until they start playing. Less is known about Simpson and Westbrook's ability as returners. But if the Skins' offense continues to be as challenged as it has been this season, all three of these guys will have to play well for the team to put points on the board.
The Washington Redskins have struggled at times both on offense and defense in the carousel that's been the 2010 season. The team's most consistent unit by far has been its special teams.
A big part of Washington's success on special teams has been due to their newfound star kick and punt returner Brandon Banks. Unfortunately, the team may be without Banks for an extended period of time.
According to Jason Reid of the Washington Post, Banks underwent knee surgery late last week. The Redskins have kept the injury and ensuing surgery fairly quiet, but they do intend for Banks to miss at least one week following the bye.
The Redskins do not expect Banks to play when they resume their schedule Nov. 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles, the sources said. If all goes well with Banks's rehab, however, he could return in time for the Week 11 game against the Tennessee Titans at LP Field.
Banks confirmed the surgery today via his personal Twitter account.
I'm ok nothing big just had to do a Lil clean up!! Im b back (terminator voice)
With Banks out of the lineup, running back Chad Simpson is the likeliest candidate to take over kick return duties. Simpson previously served as the primary kick returner with the Indianapolis Colts, and also returned kicks for the Buffalo Bills during the preseason. Phillip Buchanon may return to his role as punt returner, where he started the season before Banks passed him on the depth chart. The Redskins could also elect to turn to a flashier punt returner like DeAngelo Hall or Santana Moss.