Mike Shanahan "proud" of Washington Redskins players

Mike Shanahan has said that he is "proud" of his Washington Redskins players as they prepare for the 2013 NFL season.

The team recovered from winning just three of their first nine games last season to win the NFC East division.

The head coach told the team's website: "When we put a football team together, we're looking for people that are very passionate about what they do, very positive in the way they think, and perseverance to last during tough times. You always want great work ethic, it's very important. But so often, they don't have that perseverance.

"We've got a football team that's got everything. And that's why you should be very proud of them. I know you were proud of them last year, but I was super proud of them because they went through adversity that most people don't do, without giving up or listening to the critics.

"People will tell you, you can't do something. And usually the people that tell you, you can't do things, have never tried to accomplish anything themselves. Our players as a whole, walked through that adversity and never wavered at any time through the season. That's why you're proud and you're not surprised with what they accomplished."

The Redskins played the Buffalo Bills this evening.