By Scott M. Johnson
Herald Writer
KIRKLAND – During his 19 NFL seasons, Washington Redskins cornerback Darrell Green has left his share of impressions.
Shawn Springs’ earliest one is a testament to the 41-year-old Green’s longevity.
“He used to tackle my dad,” the 26-year-old Seattle Seahawks cornerback said, referring to the 1983 and ‘84 seasons when Green’s Redskins matched up against running back Ron Springs and the Dallas Cowboys.
Now Green is in his final season, and Sunday’s game will mark the last time he’ll play against the Seahawks.
Shawn Springs has only played against Green once during his five-year career, but he has plenty of memories of the future Hall of Famer. Springs grew up in the Washington, D.C. area and has seen his share of Darrell Green highlights on television.
The first vivid memory Springs could remember was a 1988 playoff game in which Green returned a punt 52 yards for a touchdown against the Chicago Bears.
Asked how old he was when that happened, Springs said: “I don’t remember. He’s been playing so long, I might have been 3.”
Actually, Springs was 12 at the time. That makes it even harder to believe that their NFL careers have overlapped by five years.
“Personally, I don’t want to play that long,” Springs said. “I’m glad that guys like Darrell Green were pioneers for my position so now we can get paid a lot more. If I can play half as long as him, I’m happy.
“(At 41 years old,) I’ll probably be fat. Hairline will be receding. I’ll probably be golfing and showing up to a few Seahawks games here and there.”
Weiner to start: In an effort to boost the team’s pass protection, Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren will give Todd Weiner the start at right tackle this week.
The move comes after another subpar performance from 2000 first-round draft pick Chris McIntosh, who has struggled in pass blocking this season. Part of McIntosh’s problem has to do with a nerve injury called a neck stinger that caused him to miss most of training camp.
“I really needed the practice,” McIntosh said. “I don’t know anybody that doesn’t need practice, and I really need the practice. It’s just frustrating.
“I’m taking the approach that I’ve got to go out there and really hone in on my pass protection. I made a lot of strides last year. It’s something I’ve worked hard on. A lot of it has to do with this injury and obviously not practicing.”
Weiner has played well while starting three games this season – all Seattle victories.
“My heart really goes out to (McIntosh),” Weiner said. “He’s fighting with this thing, and it’s not an easy thing to do. At the same time, I’m happy to get the opportunity. I’ve got to take advantage of it.”
Weiner, 26, is in the final season of a four-year contract he signed as a rookie.
Upon further review: The league took away Miami quarterback Jay Fiedler’s touchdown in Sunday’s 24-20 win over the Seahawks and awarded it to teammate Travis Minor.
Fiedler fumbled near the end zone after taking a hit from Seattle defensive lineman John Randle, but the officials ruled that he had crossed the plane of the goal line and awarded the Dolphins quarterback a touchdown.
After looking at replays this week, the NFL gave the touchdown to Minor, who had recovered the loose ball in the end zone.
Quick slants: One day after bringing in free agents Shayne Graham, Brad Daluiso and Doug Brien for tryouts, Holmgren said he does not intend to replace kicker Rian Lindell this week. … Free safety Marcus Robertson did not practice Wednesday due to a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. Maurice Kelly started in his place against Miami. … Holmgren is targeting the Nov. 25 game at Kansas City as Ricky Watters’ first game back from a shoulder injury. … Wide receiver Fabien Bownes has switched jerseys, from No.19 to 83.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
