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How the secondary became the cornerstone of Washington's rebuilding project

Related Topics: Defensive back, Montel Williams

SEATTLE -- It’s nearly impossible to get through a day with the Washington defensive backs without a reference to Mr. Clean.

If it isn’t Mr. Clean, then it’s Montel Williams, Hip Hop Abs’ Shaun T or the rapper Common. When the guys get really desperate, they just resort to the crystal ball.

They’re all shots taken at the noticeably bald head of Washington defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake.

“We talk about his head a lot,” senior cornerback Kevin King said. “He be shining, he be glistening.”

This is the discourse that the Washington secondary has taken up over the past three years -- a light give-and-take between players and coach, one that represents their comfort level with one another on and off the field.