Redskins WR Ryan Grant takes advantage of start with first team offense

With DeSean Jackson and Jamison Crowder sitting out, Washington Redskins second year wide receiver Ryan Grant had an opportunity to get in some action with the first team offense as the starting slot wide receiver. Just like last preseason, Grant did not disappoint.

Grant worked with the first team offense in the slot with Pierre Garcon and Andre Roberts as the starting outside receivers. Grant finished with three receptions, on three targets, for 36 receiving yards.

Grant's night was highlighted by 22-yard reception on a 2nd down pass play. Quarterback Robert Griffin III rolled out to his left and right as he got hit, he delivered a pass across his body. Grant ran a crisp out route from the split end position and created a few yards of separation, but he was forced to work his way back to the late throw from Griffin. After attacking the ball and securing the grab, Grant kept his balance and stayed in bounds to pick up a few extra yards.

Earlier in the game, on the Redskins' first drive, Grant secured a nine yard pass for a first down when the Redskins were faced with a 3rd and 5 situation.

Earlier on Thursday, we wrote about why Grant was one of five players to keep a close eye on in the preseason opener. Incumbent slot receiver Andre Roberts led all slot receivers with seven drops in 2014. When Grant exited the game with the first team offense, Roberts stayed on an took extra repetitions with Kirk Cousins and the second team offense.

Keep an eye on Grant throughout the preseason. If he strings together another few games like this, he could surprise people and win the Redskins' starting slot receiver job.