Shanahan expects Portis to 'be in great shape' and at a lower weight

Some of Clinton Portis's teammates privately complained about his poor conditioning at the outset of training camp last season.

Once the season began, players expressed frustration about Portis's attempt to have fullback Mike Sellers demoted, his lackadaisical approach to practice and lack of burst during games. For now, though, let's focus on his conditioning.

It was clear to the coaching staff that Portis was not in top shape to start camp. At that point, however, former head coach Jim Zorn had already been beaten down repeatedly whenever he raised concerns about Portis with top management. Zorn picked his battles carefully regarding Portis before eventually giving up altogether.

Of course, Mike Shanahan is not Zorn. Shanahan is the Redskins' new undisputed leader, and Portis, having started his career under Shanahan in Denver, knows how the two-time Super Bowl winner rolls. Portis is participating in the Redskins' voluntary offseason conditioning program at Redskins Park.

"I didn't expect anything but that," Shanahan said of Portis's full commitment to the program. "I think everybody seems surprised outside but not me, because when Clinton was with me [in Denver] he never missed."

Of course, perfect attendance is not enough for Shanahan. He expects Portis to be in top shape for the season.

"He was 205 or 210 pounds and averaged [nearly] six yards a carry for two years [with the Broncos]. That's what I expect him to be - in great shape and doing the things he's always done with me. He knows he's got to be lighter, sure.

"I think we'll know as time goes on [what Portis's playing weight should be]. ... I haven't talked to him about it, but I would say that he'll probably be shooting at 210, 212, 214 range. I think Clinton knows what's best for him and his body, what type of offense we run with the zone blocking scheme that gives him the best chance to be successful."

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(washingtonpost.com)