Redskins coach Jay Gruden said Thursday that he plans for the starters to play approximately a first half in the preseason game Saturday at Baltimore, though that could change depending on how much work each unit gets.
“It depends on how we’re doing,” Gruden said. “It could go to the third quarter. It could go the whole game. Who knows? My plan is, hopefully, to get a good, solid half out of them, but it depends on how many plays. If the offense doesn’t have as many plays as the defense, or vice-versa, one group might come out for the third quarter. We’ll see how it goes.”
The first-team offense played 10 snaps in the preseason opener against New England, then was lifted after 26 plays against Cleveland on Monday. The defense was much more scattershot as individual players needed additional work for a variety of reasons, but most players were on the field for two series against the Patriots and played into the second quarter against the Browns.
Washington should have nearly its full complement of players available to face the Ravens, whom they have not faced in the preseason since 2011.
Nose tackle Barry Cofield, who was held out of practice on Wednesday, was able to practice fully on Thursday, Gruden said. Cornerback Tracy Porter, who strained a hamstring against the Browns, will likely be held out of the game, while running back Chris Thompson will be a game-time decision as he tests his sprained ankle.
“He did individual [drills] again today,” Gruden said. “I would say 50/50 right now with him. It could go either way, in my opinion.”
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Inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton (high right ankle sprain) and tight end Mike Caussin (unspecified knee injury) are likely to also miss the game. Running back Lache Seastrunk missed practice Thursday for personal reasons, Gruden said, but is expected to be ready for Baltimore.
• Zac Boyer can be reached at zboyer@washingtontimes.com.
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