When the Washington Redskins turned to 36-year old Donald Penn, many assumed their glaring hole at left tackle would be plugged. However, that has not been the case.
In Thursday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Penn was beat badly on a block, allowing Jordan Willis to deliver a blindside hit on rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins. The hit caused Haskins to lose the football before Bengals defensive end Kerry Wynn recovered for the turnover.
Penn has been working to get into game shape. Meanwhile, last year’s third-round pick Geron Christian has started at left tackle as Trent Williams continues his holdout. With Christian getting to play with the first unit, many assumed the Redskins could be holding Penn back to protect Haskins, the impending franchise QB.
After a missed block that nearly got Haskins blown up, the narrative has changed regarding Penn. It’s apparent Penn is still a work in progress, and unless Williams ends his holdout, Christian may be the best option at left tackle.
Christian has struggled through training camp and preseason as well. Yet, has one leg up and has shown more consistency. That includes a solid sweeping block against a nickel blitz earlier in the game that help lead to a 55-yard touchdown pass by Haskins earlier in the game.
Of course, Donald Penn will have the opportunity to redeem himself while working back into game shape. But, there’s no question the missed block has raised Redskins fans’ concerns.
