A new chapter has begun for the Washington Redskins, as head coach James “Jim” Zorn, 55, takes over the reins. He plans to emphasize high energy and steady smart playing in coming Redskins games. After the Skins’ pre-season victory over the Buffalo Bills (17-14), Zorn was enthusiastic about the upcoming season. Commenting that he likes to win, he said that the goal for the Redskins is to win. The Redskins also won Aug. 3 in Canton, Ohio over the Indianapolis Colts (30-16).
Zorn commented that the team is checking their plays since the pre-season is the time to prepare for the regular season, and added that the Redskins are learning to work together as a team. In his first season as head coach, Zorn feels that he is ready for the opportunity. Having come up from quarterback coach for the Seattle Seahawks, he was known for his unique drills, including dodge ball using a large exercise ball. His Seattle players improved and this creativity is what makes Zorn a good fit for the Redskins. Zorn has signed a five-year $15 million contract.
Redskins’ owner Dan Snyder feels that Zorn’s skills as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coach will mean success for the Redskins as a team. Snyder has kept former head coach Joe Gibbs’ support staff. So Zorn will have advice and back-up this season from veteran assistants Joe Bugel and Greg Blache on defense. It is predicted that Zorn will be doing some major overhauls on the offensive side.
Prior to his coaching, Zorn was an NFL quarterback from 1976-87. He has also been an NFL assistant coach for the past 11 years, most of the time with the Seahawks.
