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After three weeks of the NFL season, USA TODAY looks at five veterans who face pivotal seasons after recent disappointments:
QB JASON CAMPBELL, WASHINGTON REDSKINS
• Background: Took much of the blame for Washington's 2-6 second-half slide last season, throwing for five TDs with six picks as Redskins scored only 100 points in that span. Club tried hard to acquire Jay Cutler as offseason replacement.
• Danger zone: Fifth-year passer faces greatest pressure to date after Washington fell to Detroit, ending Lions' 19-game slide. Campbell threw for 340 yards in that game but offense didn't do enough in 19-14 loss.
• What they're saying: "Since I haven't been offered a contract, it's this year and then we'll see what happens." —Campbell, quoted in the 'Washington Times'
QB JAKE DELHOMME, CAROLINA PANTHERS
• Background: Success of former undrafted free agent had been one of NFL's feel-good stories until recently. Came apart in 33-13 divisional playoff loss to visiting Arizona Cardinals, committing six turnovers in face of Arizona pressure.
• Danger zone: Turnover woes continued with seven INTs and two lost fumbles for the 0-3 Panthers. Offseason contract extension and the loyalty of coach John Fox protecting him for now.
• What they're saying: "In this game, it's 'what have you done for me lately.' But that's true of all positions." —Fox
QB JAMARCUS RUSSELL, OAKLAND RAIDERS
• Background: First pick in 2007 draft possesses size (6-6, 260) and arm strength to succeed but has yet to show he's complete package. Made only one start as a rookie following holdout. Hit only 53.8% of his passes in 15 starts last year.
• Danger zone: Accuracy woes worsened so far. Enters Sunday's game in Houston hitting just 41.3% (31 of 75) with one score, four picks. Lack of quality receivers doesn't help. Rookie Darrius Heyward-Bey (seventh overall pick) has one catch.
• What they're saying: "I have to have faith in the guy going out there playing quarterback for us, and I do have that faith." —Oakland coach Tom Cable
CB LITO SHEPPARD, NEW YORK JETS
• Background: Fortunes declined with Philadelphia Eagles after he made the second of his consecutive Pro Bowl appearances for them in 2006. Started only three games last season, prompting trade to Jets.
• Danger zone: Eighth-year vet faces enormous weekly challenges with Jets. Consistently targeted by opponents because he plays opposite shutdown CB Darrelle Revis. Quadricep injury adding to difficulties.
• What they're saying: "It's giving me the opportunity to establish myself, considering what I went through in Philadelphia." —Sheppard, on joining the Jets
S ROY WILLIAMS, CINCINNATI BENGALS
• Background: Excelled for Dallas Cowboys after being eighth overall pick in 2002 draft, making five consecutive Pro Bowls in streak that ran through 2007. Developed reputation in recent years as safety who could be beaten deep.
• Danger zone: Cowboys released him after fractured forearm held him to three games in '08. Off to fine start with Cincinnati, leading club in tackles (23) and solo hits (16) but lacks security beyond one-year contract.
• What they're saying: "You've always got to show that you've still got it." —Williams
