The Facts: In the past, the Redskins needed Jordan Reed to serve as a solid option in the passing game since no one else behind him was able to do the same. Paul provided a lift when Reed was hurt last year, but his size prevented him from being a more all-around tight end. Paul took care of that problem this offseason, adding weight and now is at or over 250 pounds. “I was always a willing blocker,” Paul said. “I was 230 going against guys 260, 270. I wanted to level out the playing field a little bit and it showed up on film out here.”

Diehards Line: According to last season’s roster, it’s only a 10-pound increase but it looks to be a little more. Or as ESPN.com's John Keim suggests, perhaps it’s all muscle and it just stands out more. Regardless, Keim maintains Paul is a different player and that’s been obvious throughout the spring. Indeed, Paul, who already had a role, continues to make progress as he did the previous two offseasons. Three years ago he focused on improving his hands after some early drops and he went through an entire camp with just one drop. Last year he worked hard on his blocking and his technique. This year he’s doing more of the same. And according to Keim, when you talk to coaches, it’s clear that he’s been one of the most impressive players this spring. Keim's guess: They'd put him on a list of the top three offensively this spring. What they like is that despite the weight gain, they say Paul hasn’t lost his speed. Given Reed's long history of injuries, Paul's progress is worth noting.