JOSEPH WHITE
AP Sports Writer
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Washington Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall was “just a little sore” with a bruised back after an awkward landing during training camp practice Sunday, while linebacker Darryl Sharpton could be out several weeks with a high ankle sprain.
Coach Jay Gruden also said receiver DeSean Jackson could return to full practice later this week and might be able to play next Monday night in a preseason game against Cleveland. Jackson injured his left ankle in practice last week.
Hall’s injury apparently isn’t as scary as it looked. He somersaulted and landed on his back while defending Andre Roberts in a one-on-one drill.
“He’s walking around a little bit better, just a little sore,” Gruden said. “I can’t imagine it being very long.”
Thank Goodness we have the Best Training Staff in the League. Treatment nonstop I'll be back Skins Fam #HTTR
— DeAngelo Hall (@DeAngeloHall23) August 11, 2014
Hall was carted off the field, which Gruden said made the scene more dramatic than it had to be.
“He could have walked off,” Gruden said. “It would have made it a lot easier on me.”
Sharpton’s availability for the rest of preseason — and possibility the start of the regular season — is in doubt because of the high ankle sprain. Sharpton was one of several offseason signings aimed at improving last year’s woeful special teams.
Jackson was hurt during last week’s joint practices with the New England Patriots. He has been running, but Gruden said it will be another day or two before the three-time Pro Bowl receiver will be able to do full-speed cutting.
“Hopefully he’ll be ready by Monday night,” Gruden said.
Also Sunday, linebacker Brian Orakpo was a spectator because of a bruised thigh, and running back Silas Reed was sidelined with a minor ankle sprain. Gruden expects both to return to regular practice Monday or Tuesday. Tight end Jordan Reed remains out with a stomach virus.
Gruden had disconcerting words for a pair of injured second-year players who had been expected to complete for playing time. Running back Chris Thompson could miss another week with a sprained ankle, while safety Phillip Thomas has been dealing with a nagging hamstring. Both had their rookie seasons derailed by injuries.
“They have promise, and we’re excited about what they can do,” Gruden said. “But we’ve got to see it, and we can’t see if it they’re hurt all the time.”
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