The Washington Redskins have all kinds of injury woes, but most of them involve the defense. Now, however, a huge injury has hit the offense.
The NFL's leading rusher, Clinton Portis, is listed as questionable for today's game against the Browns. Portis missed practice this week due to a hip flexor he suffered in last week's loss to the St. Louis Rams, returning to practice at the end of the week.
"He ran around pretty good," [Redskins head coach Jim] Zorn said. "Nothing for him was absolute burst full-speed, but I saw him make some cuts both left and right."
Skins fans better hope Portis plays. Not only is he the NFL's leading rusher, but his top backup is out. Ladell Betts will miss the next few weeks with a knee injury. If Portis can't play, kick returner Rock Cartwright will see a ton of carries.
This also gives Shaun Alexander a chance to show his wares. Alexander was signed by the Redskins last Tuesday to be the third-string back until Betts is healthy.
Portis is one of the toughest guys in the NFL and it will take a lot more than a mild hip flexor to keep him inactive. Expect Portis to play. How effective he will be is another matter.
