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2017 NFL power rankings: Patriots lead the way

By Russell S. Baxter

Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; A general overall view of NRG Stadium with graphics featuring New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) prior to Super Bowl LI. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; A general overall view of NRG Stadium with graphics featuring New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) prior to Super Bowl LI. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder (80) avoids the tackle of Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Dallas won 31-26. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder (80) avoids the tackle of Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Dallas won 31-26. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
17

Washington Redskins 8-7-1

Last week: 3rd, NFC East
Last rank: 17th

Looking Back: It was truly a rollercoaster showing for the defending NFC East champions. Jay Gruden’s club still had a chance to secure a playoff invitation on the final Sunday of the regular season. But the Redskins came up short at home to the Giants and there was no second straight trip to the playoffs.

Looking Forward: Scoring points doesn’t really seem to be the issue with Gurden’s squad. And it was no surprise that defensive coordinator Joe Barry was given his walking papers after back-to-back seasons in which Washington allowed the fifth-most total yards in the league. The team promoted Greg Manusky and the pressure is on. The team could still use some help on the defensive front but they have assembled some big-time players in terms of pass rushers. Cornerback Josh Norman was a big-time addition but this unit is still in dire need of talent at numerous positions. And in case you’re wondering, stopping the run and the pass have both been big-time sore spots in recent years.

Offseason needs: Getting a new deal done with quarterback Kirk Cousins should be the top priority. From top to bottom, the Redskins may have the best receiving corps in the NFL. Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson are complemented by Jamison Crowder. And we are still waiting to get more from Josh Doctson. Add in tight end Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis and this is quite the group. But Garcon, Jackson and Davis are all unrestricted free agents as of March. This is a Washington team dependent on its offense these days. Keeping this group intact is important. Of course, retaining all three potential free agents may not be realistic.

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