ASHBURN—Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis is recovering from a concussion and is doubtful to play Sunday against Denver. In addition, they lost their starting strong safety and right tacle to multiweek injuries. Safety Chris Horton damaged a ligament in his left big toe during Sunday’s 31-17 loss to Atlanta. He’s out a minimum of four to six weeks—and it will be four to six months if a specialist decides the toe needs surgery.

ASHBURN—It took four days after a loss to the Detroit Lions for a member of the reeling Washington Redskins to step forward with a strong acceptance of blame and the most outward acknowledgment that change of some sort is needed. Defensive coordinator Greg Blache’s mea culpa yesterday included an offer to throw himself “under the bus,“ a vow to no longer be “handcuffed” in his calls, and the announcement of a switch at starting strong safety from Chris Horton to Reed Doughty.

The projected starting defensive lineup for the Washington Redskins’ season opener includes six players acquired as free agents, all signed to impressive, big-money contracts. There are also four blue chip Redskins draft picks, three taken in the first round and one in the second. No wonder there’s a lot of confidence in Washington that this could be the best defense in the league.

The Redskins will welcome back an old face next season, as defensive end Renaldo Wynn signed with the team yesterday. Wynn hasn’t played with the Redskins since 2006. He will fill the role vacated by Jason Taylor. He’s not the only player to join the team after an extended absence. Guard Derrick Dockery will re-join the team this season, and cornerback Fred Smoot had a two-year absence in the middle of his career when he played with the Vikings.