Redskins'McIntosh shows will to succeed

ROCKYMCINTOSH Rocky McIntosh is known as a hard-working player.

The former Gaffney High and University of Miami star would also like to be known as the starting outside linebacker for the Washington Redskins.

McIntosh, the Redskins' second-round draft pick in 2006, saw limited playing time last season as he grasped defensive coordinator Greg Williams' system.

He did start two games, but primarily served as a backup, recording 23 tackles overall. He also contributed on special teams, with 28 tackles - second best on the team.

His drive to succeed is evident.

He earned high marks from the coaching staff as one of the top participants in the team's offseason weight and conditioning program.

With last year's starter gone, McIntosh is battling Lemar Marshall, a former college safety, for the starting spot.

McIntosh is off to a good start, with three tackles and a deflected pass in the Redskins' exhibition-opening 14-6 win over the Tennessee Titans this weekend.

McIntosh is confident he'll win the coaches' trust.

"It's definitely a lot more natural out there this year," he said. "I have a better feel for the defense and I have veterans in there with me. I feel great out there with London Fletcher and Marcus [Washington] coming back."

Becoming a starter in the National Football League isn't the only big change in McIntosh's life.

He became a parent in June with the birth of his son, Gavin.