The Washington Redskins had their first open session of offseason workouts on Wednesday, and the player everybody was on hand to see didn't disappoint.
New running back Derrius Guice didn't get a chance to show off all his moves, since these are non-contact practices, but he earned an endorsement from Jay Gruden for his ability to pick up the playbook quickly, and Guice stayed around longer than just about every other player signing autographs for fans after the workout.
While Guice signed, kicker Dustin Hopkins enjoyed a shaved ice from a truck the Redskins had brought in for the occasion. Sometimes, it's better to be the kicker.
Other OTA observations:
--Depth charts aren't worth the paper they're printed on this time of year, but can provide an interesting glimpse into what the coaches see, or hope to see. With linebacker Zach Brown absent, the staff gave the second starting spot to Josh Harvey-Clemons, and are clearly hoping for big things in his second year.
--Likewise, at cornerback, Orlando Scandrick got plenty of work in opposite Josh Norman, with Quinton Dunbar becoming the third cornerback in nickel situations. Scandrick can also play slot corner, so view that as a fluid situation at the moment.
--Returning punts: Jamison Crowder, De'Mornay Pierson-El, Maurice Harris and Greg Stroman.
--The secondary was extra feisty on Wednesday. New receiver Paul Richardson Jr. caught a pass from Alex Smith that traveled 45 yards in the air, grabbing it in stride against Stroman. Safety D.J. Swearinger immediately started trash talking: "We want to see you on the top dog," he said of Richardson going against a rookie.
Richardson got his chance, but the pass was broken up by Dunbar. In fairness to Richardson, it wasn't the day's best ball in the air.
--The cornerbacks probably dropped five interceptions over the course of the workout. It was a definite theme.
--With the attention surrounding Guice at running back, it was surprising to see Keith Marshall in the backfield. Marshall, who has had both his pro seasons cut short by injury, looked spry and ready, and could challenge for a roster spot if he stays healthy.
--Catch of the day belonged to Trey Quinn, who stayed relevant with a well-timed turn and grab against Danny Johnson.
--Alex Smith is clearly out to maximize every moment of practice. He worked with different snap counts, even doing a quick snap out of the huddle a couple times. He wants to break in his new squad as quickly as possible.
--The offensive line wasn't much to evaluate, with Morgan Moses and Trent Williams both still in rehab for injuries.
--Former U.Va. and UR coach Mike London brought his Howard staff to Ashburn to take in the afternoon session.
--Despite beautiful weather, the practice was moved to the team's indoor bubble, because Tuesday night's rains were still soaking the outdoor fields, which don't drain well. Because of that, Jay Gruden held receiver Robert Davis out of the workout. Davis had a slight toe injury, and Gruden didn't want to risk aggravating it on the turf.