Snyder Still Has Much to Learn

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DAN SNYDER. No two words evoke such rage, contempt and frustration in Washington as the name of the Redskins' owner.

Vilified years ago, Snyder's reputation can probably be saved at this point only by winning a championship.

At least, that's the one thing fans can't complain about: Snyder wants to win. He just doesn't know how.

Just like he doesn't seem to know how to treat someone like a person.

While, at 34, he was young to be an NFL owner when he took over his childhood team 10 years, that's no excuse for the mean-spirited attacks and ugly firings (one and off the field) common at Redskins Park.

Snyder has matured, sure. He and Joe Gibbs did the franchise proud with their actions in the wake of Sean Taylor's death.

Hiring Gibbs brought stability and respectability, if not excellence, back to D.C.
Some lessons have been learned; more need to sink for Washington to win its fourth Super Bowl.

Snyder still prefers to throw around his weight with his mighty checkbook, overpaying free agents rather than building through the draft that model organizations such as the Steelers, Colts and Ravens have shown works.

Two playoff appearances in four years and an 8-8 record under Jim Zorn last year show Snyder has made progress.

His second 10 years will show whether Snyder, the man and the owner, was prematurely turned into a villain.

Photo by John McDonnell/The Washinton Post