Coming back from a torn ACL in 2016, cornerback-turned-free safety DeAngelo Hall has struggled to get on the field for the Washington Redskins in 2017, starting just two games this season.
Still, coach Jay Gruden and defensive coordinator Greg Manusky praised the three-time Pro Bowler’s contributions off the field in their respective press conferences Thursday.
“It’s been hard on D-Hall,” Gruden told reporters. “I think as productive as a player he’s been in the past, coming off this injury and then moving positions and not really quite getting the reps that you need to play that position when it’s new has been difficult for him. But he has been excellent as far as being still a leader in the locker room and the defensive back room showing guys how to prepare and work.”
The first player in NFL history to score five touchdowns off interceptions and five touchdowns off fumble recoveries, Hall has not recorded a takeaway since 2015. But the former Virginia Tech Hokie has played a vital role for Washington, Gruden said, despite his lack of playing time.
“He’s been somebody the younger guys can look up to and it’s just been a treat having him around,” Gruden said. “I’m glad he is here even though it hasn’t been productive for us, but he has been very good in other realms of pro football and what’s necessary in the locker room and meetings standpoint.”
Manusky echoed Gruden’s comments, discussing how Hall has helped rookies and veterans alike in their pre-game preparation.
“I think just getting the younger guys to understand practice habits, number one, how to prepare for games from a studying standpoint,” Manusky responded when asked what the 34-year old has brought to the team this year. “Overall, just from a football knowledge, to talk to players across the board, not just the younger players, but even the older players, different techniques. That’s what he was great at a long time.
• Josh Luckenbaugh can be reached at jluckenbaugh@washingtontimes.com.
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