General manger Bruce Allen is pleased to talk about Washington Redskins alumni and next Saturday’s Ring of Fame induction ceremony. Just don’t ask him about the product currently on the field.
Allen agreed to chat with reporters on Thursday but dodged questions when the subject turned to the frustrations of a second losing season to start his tenure.
“Well, we’re going to play the Giants and looking forward to it,” Allen said.
A reporter pressed on, asking Allen if he believes the Redskins have made strides.
Instead, Allen steered the topic to former coach Richie Petitbon’s induction.
“I can talk about that stuff at a later date,” he said. “But Richie Petitbon had a special day today and the team is getting ready for the Giants.”
Asked about the possibility of a third consecutive last-place finish, he evaded again.
“We play the Giants, so maybe after the season ask me about that,” Allen said.
And with that the interview ended and Allen hurried inside team headquarters.
Allen often defers questions about the team to coach Mike Shanahan, who has control over personnel decisions.
Last week Allen declined a request for an interview regarding Trent Williams’ and Fred Davis’ drug suspensions.
Petitbon enters Ring of Fame
The team introduced Petitbon as the newest member of its Ring of Fame.
Petitibon was a four-time Pro Bowl safety who formed part of George Allen’s “Over the Hill Gang” from 1971 to 1972.
He later gained notoriety for his role as defensive coordinator during the glory years under Joe Gibbs from 1981 to 1992, a stretch that featured three Super Bowl victories.
“Looking at the history of the franchise, honoring coaches is as important as honoring players,” owner Daniel Snyder said.
Petitbon succeeded Gibbs as Redskins coach in 1993, a one-year stint in which an aging team finished 4-12.
“I think any time you see yourself included with the great coaches and players, I find it very difficult to imagine yourself going in with people like that,” Petitbon said. “I think it’s a surprise.”
Petitbon, 73, will be honored during halftime of the Redskins’ final home game against the Minnesota Vikings Dec. 24.
Extra points
• Right tackle Jammal Brown (left groin) and fullback Mike Sellers (right elbow) missed practice.
• Defensive end Stephen Bowen (knee), safety Reed Doughty (rib), linebacker London Fletcher (ankle), punter Sav Rocca (left ankle) and receiver Donte Stallworth (ankle) were limited.
• Rich Campbell can be reached at rcampbell@washingtontimes.com.
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