The biggest question, or perhaps the most intrigue, involved the Washington Redskins' running back situation. They cleared that up fast in a hurry Saturday morning. Washington released running backs Chris Thompson, Evan Royster and Lache Seastrunk as it continued getting down to the final 53 cuts.

That means undrafted rookie free agent Silas Redd made the roster after an impressive summer. It also means the Redskins did not end up with a speedback as they had desired. But they could sign Seastrunk and/or Thompson to the practice squad. Seastrunk, a sixth-round pick this spring, showed impressive speed in the preseason finale -- and throughout the summer. But he also showed he had a ways to go in pass protection.

Royster's lack of speed hurt him, though he did show he can still be a move-the-chains type runner as well as help on special teams. Thompson entered camp with a strong shot at winning a roster spot but another injury, this time a sprained ankle, doomed a player with durability questions.

The Redskins, according to reports from ESPN.com, the Washington Post and NBC Channel 4, also cut receiver Nick Williams, kicker Zach Hocker, linebacker Everette Brown, corner Chase Minnifield and safety Phillip Thomas. The latter was a mild surprise but his inability to stay healthy the past two seasons was a problem. He's still sidelined with an injury to the same foot that had a Lisfranc sprain --and required surgery -- a year ago. But Thomas is eligible for the practice squad, as is Minnifield. Hocker's release means veteran Kai Forbath retains the job.

Receiver Nick Williams also was cut Saturday morning. An NFL source said the Redskins were trying to trade offensive lineman Maurice Hurt. If unsuccessful, he would be cut. The Redskins also have to decide what to do with receiver Leonard Hankerson and defensive end Stephen Bowen, both of whom could open the season on the physically unable to perform list. Also, linebacker Darryl Sharpton (ankle) will end up on injured reserve per the Washington Post. It's likely Chris Neild (knee) will be placed on IR as well.