Chris

Chester

Chester is penciled in opposite Andy Levitre, but doesn’t have much job security. He worked with the third-team offense in his first practice.

While Chester will open camp in the driver’s seat, he knows the heat is on. “I expected there to be a full competition at right guard,” Chester said. “We are deep and have talent at the position.” Former C Mike Person, rookie Wes Schweitzer, and Tom Compton will all push Chester during camp.

Chester started every game for Atlanta the last two years. He’s considering retirement entering his age-34 season. The Falcons will likely look to the draft to replace Chester.

Chester was a 19-game starter for the NFC champion Falcons last season. The No. 56 pick of the 2006 draft, Chester has been a regular starter since 2008. He never made a Pro Bowl or All-Pro team, but was a typically solid contributor. Going by Pro Football Focus ratings, however, 2016 was the worst year of his career. Chester turned 34 in January. He had yet to draw interest in free agency.

Chester, 32, has started all 64 games for Washington the past four seasons, but isn’t a fit for coach Jay Gruden’s power-blocking scheme at just 305 pounds. The veteran remained a serviceable guard last season, especially in pass protection, so he should get another look. The Redskins save $4 million against the cap with the move. Spencer Long is now the favorite at right guard.

He’ll slide into Prince Shembo’s roster spot. Chester, 32, started every game for the Redskins over the past four seasons, and has experience at all three interior positions. Coached by Falcons OC Kyle Shanahan in Washington 2011-2013, Chester is a fit for Atlanta’s new zone-blocking scheme. Last year, Chester fared well as a pass blocker but had run-game struggles as the Redskins implemented a power-rushing attack. He becomes the favorite to start at left guard in Atlanta, with Jake Matthews at left tackle, Joe Hawley at center, Jon Asamoah at right guard, and Ryan Shraeder or Tyler Polumbus at right tackle.

Chester has played primarily guard in the NFL, but was a center at Oklahoma and could fill a reserve swing role or compete to start in Atlanta or Philadelphia. The Eagles’ need is at guard with LG Evan Mathis holding out, and journeyman Allen Barbre currently penciled in at right guard. 32-year-old Chester played for new Falcons OC Kyle Shanahan in Washington 2011-2013.

Chester is entering the fourth year of a five-year, $20 million contract and is coming off a season where he was pushed around with ease as a pass blocker. Although he’s yet to miss a start in 48 games with the Redskins, Chester’s play has been extremely inconsistent. Washington selected G Spencer Long in the third round. They’ll give him every opportunity to unseat Chester this summer.

The Redskins put Chester on notice when they drafted Spencer Long in the third round. They’re going to give the rookie every opportunity to unseat Chester. Washington can save $2.6 million against the cap by releasing Chester, who signed a five-year, $20 million deal ahead of the 2011 season.

Incumbent Chris Chester better watch his back. Chester got blown up often in pass protection last season, and was below average as a run blocker. At 6-foot-5, 320, Long offers the size new coach Jay Gruden covets up front, while Chester is 6-foot-3, 309. Chester is owed a $3 million base salary in 2014.