Washington Redskins coaches were looking for re-assurance from starting strong safety Brandon Meriweather who is returning from an ACL injury. Meriweather was recovering from a left knee injury the entire  2012 season, until he tore the ACL in his right knee week 11 only 45 snaps into his comeback. Over the past two seasons Meriweather has missed 20 games dues to injury.The coaching staff left Tampa Bay still questioning if Meriweather is back to top form after he displayed some rust which should be expected after the lengthy layoff. Mike Jones of the Washington Post provided the following quote after the game Thursday night.

The worst thing that could happen to me right now would be coaches telling me I have to sit out another week because I didn't look ready.

 Meriweather who normally plays with physicality looked to play hesitant and avoided contact on multiple occasions. There were some positives to be noted as his coverage was solid and Rookie free safety Baccari Rambo looked comfortable along side him. When healthy Meriweather has been productive in the league with 300 tackles three forced fumbles and 13 interceptions. If Meriweather doesn't return to form Washington will turn to Reed Doughty who played in all 16 games last season recording 69 combined tackles and one interception. Regardless who starts at strong safety there is plenty of talent and veteran leadership on the defensive side of the ball, with linebackers Ryan Kerrigan and London Fletcher.

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