Redskins All-Pro LT Trent Williams suspended for second time
By Connor Learn
Four time Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams of the Washington Redskins has been suspended four games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. It will be an unpaid suspension effective immediately, the Redskins announced in a statement.
In their official statement, the Redskins expressed that “The Redskins are counting on Trent to help our team when he returns from suspension.” This is Williams’ second substance related suspension, as he was suspended back in 2011 after failing multiple drug tests.
The 6’5, 320 pound Williams was drafted 4th overall by the Redskins in the 2010 NFL draft after consensus All-American honors at Oklahoma. While at Oklahoma, he earned the nickname Silverback because of the way he dominated on the field. Trent Williams quickly became a starter for the sometimes turbulent Redskins offensive line and has made the last four Pro Bowls.
He signed a five year, $66 million dollar extension with Washington before last year and made his first All Pro team, earning second team honors. The 28-year old has served as Washington’s team captain in recent seasons.
Third year pro Ty Nsekhe will likely take over Trent Williams over the course of his suspension. He started two games for Washington last year in his first year with the team. Nsekhe drew praise from General Manager Scott McCloughan over the off-season when he said that, “Ty, in my personal opinion, he would start on over half the teams in the league at left or right tackle.” There will naturally be a drop off in play from an All-Pro player to his back up, but if the Redskins GM is to be believed, then his team shouldn’t struggle too much in Trent Williams’ absence.
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The Washington Redskins are currently 4-3-1 and two games behind the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. They are currently seeking to make the playoffs two years in a row for the first time since the 1991-1992 season.