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Washington Redskins' camp opens with Jay Gruden on hot seat

How Redskins first-rounder Dwayne Haskins progresses as a rookie working with coach Jay Gruden's staff will bear watching this season. Photo by Tony Quinn/Icon Sportswire

The Washington Redskins open training camp on July 25 in Richmond, Virginia. Here's a closer look at a few storylines:

What will it take for coach Jay Gruden to keep his job?

The organization hasn't issued a "playoffs-or-out" demand on Gruden. But after three straight non-playoff seasons and only one appearance in his first five years (with no wins), it should be obvious. However, the nuance comes in this: What if they go 8-8 or 7-9, but finish strong and rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins develops? Do you still fire Gruden (the issues in Washington are far from his alone)? Short of that, it should be playoffs or done.

What can we expect from rookie QB Dwayne Haskins if (or when) he starts for the Redskins?

It might take a while to see; because of his inexperience -- and that he's a pocket passer -- the Redskins want him to master more of their offense first. Otherwise, they're putting him in a position to fail, given the lack of proven playmakers at receiver. If he's allowed to develop naturally, fans will see his special arm talent and vision -- but also someone still working on getting his footwork matched up with his arm.

How will Trent Williams' holdout affect his play this season as well as the offensive line?

If and when he returns it shouldn't affect his performance considering the level he's played at for a while -- as long as he's healthy. Because of his health, Williams wouldn't have participated in the offseason work anyway. But his presence will help whoever starts at left guard, the only starting vacancy along the line. They lack solid depth at tackle. If Williams isn't here, or not healthy, they have serious issues. They need Williams.

What impact will Derrius Guice have at running back and how will that affect Adrian Peterson's carries?

If healthy, it could be big. Again: if healthy. Peterson remains effective, but in an ideal situation Guice would receive about 60 percent of the carries (Peterson would still be heavily involved). Guice, coming off a torn ACL, will be limited early in camp (this was the plan before a recent hamstring issue). Pre-ACL, Guice showed he could help as a runner and receiver. He's the playmaker they need, but it depends on his sustained availability.

Can the defense be good enough to make the Redskins a playoff contender?

They should be good enough -- flirting with the top 10 -- to put them close, but not good enough to overcome poor offensive play. They have a talented young line -- and the addition of rookie linebacker Montez Sweat will complement Ryan Kerrigan. Last season, there was a disconnect between the front seven and the back four -- against the run and pass. The additions of safety Landon Collins and secondary coach Ray Horton are expected to fix that problem.