ASHBURN - The presumed final practice of the summer program is in the books for the Washington Redskins. One more is scheduled for Thursday, but Redskins coach Jay Gruden traditionally cancels it and takes his team on a bonding activity instead.
Wednesday's practice was geared towards giving the Redskins rookies and third-team players an opportunity to shine, something they don't always get. Third-team quarterback Kevin Hogan took the vast majority of the snaps in the workout.
Gruden praised Hogan's "escapability," noting that Hogan can move around outside the pocket. With training camp up next, Hogan will get his opportunity to win a practice squad spot during the Richmond workouts and the four preseason games.
Other minicamp observations:
--The day's most intriguing development was a post-play fight between defensive linemen Ondre Pipkins and Anthony Lanier. Fighting is nothing unusual during camp, but Pipkins and Lanier are on the same unit, which is unusual. Lanier had been in the middle of a scuffle Tuesday as well. Coaches let the two fight for a minute before Gruden broke it up. Asked after the fight after, Gruden deadpanned that he didn't see it, and unfortunately there was no video of it, so he never will.
--Virginia Tech cornerback Greg Stroman had the day's best play, grabbing an interception during red-zone work. Stroman was noticeable on a handful of other plays as well. It's always worth noting when big plays come against third-team competition, but it still bodes well for Stroman getting an opportunity when camp begins.
--Derrius Guice's latest feat of strength: Hurling over one of the team's equipment managers, who was kneeling.
--Offensive lineman Trent Williams spoke with reporters after the session. He didn't participate in the minicamp, and still has a large wrap on his knee that was surgically repaired this offseason, but said he plans to be ready when training camp begins. Williams said he's been impressed as he's gotten to know quarterback Alex Smith this week.
--Gruden also heaped the praise on Smith during the Tuesday session, calling the quarterback, "the smartest guy I have ever been around."
--Smith's development will be crucial to the Redskins' hopes this season, because there is no time for learning on the job. Washington opens with the Cardinals and Colts, two very winnable football games. If the Redskins truly have postseason ambitions, they can't afford to drop those games.