Redskins Lose Meriweather

Meriweather, 31, first injured his knee against the Bears in the second week of preseason. (Photo: sbnation.com)

Once again, the Redskins have lost safety Brandon Meriweather for 2-4 weeks due to a knee injury. The former Pro Bowl safety missed the final two preseason games due to a knee injury.

Redskins Head Coach Mike Shanahan confirmed today in a press conference that Meriweather has sprained his right MCL and PCL in practice on Monday.

The Redskins have now lost their second safety in the span of a week and a half. Last week, Tanard Jackson was suspended indefinitley last week violating the leagues substance abuse policy.

Unfortunatley, the Redskins are playing the most lethal passing attack that the NFL has to offer this weekend when they play the Saints. Meriweather was a bonafide starter for the Redskins at safety and he will certainly be missed. With Drew Brees at quarterback, you know that the Redskins will be tested deep with post routes, corner routes, and tight ends running straight up field over the middle to test the safeties.

So who's going to fill the void? Expect Reed Doughty and Dejon Gomes to get a majority of the reps where Meriweather would usually play. Madieu Williams will be playing the other position, but the Redskins might rotate the three around so one doesn't become to tired.

The pressure for this weeks defensive gameplan now falls to the front four. The pass rush attack of Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan will have to be at their best. Giving Brees the least amount of time in the pocket will be key in helping their short-handed secondary.

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Source: Pro Football Talk