Head coach Joe Gibbs updated the health status of linebacker Marcus Washington and defensive tackle Brandon Noble, saying both players will be out of action for the near future after undergoing medical procedures this week.

Gibbs said that Washington will undergo the same surgery he had last offseason to remove a benign growth in his tailbone area.

Although Washington's condition is not serious, he is expected to miss the next 5-6 weeks and his status for the team's mini-camp in June is uncertain.

The Pro Bowl linebacker had the same procedure performed last year approximately three weeks before signing with the Redskins as a free agent, Gibbs said.

"I think he's had it twice," Gibbs said. "It's something that comes back. I think it's more of a discomfort thing. We certainly don't want him going through the season with it."

Regarding Noble, Gibbs said that the defensive tackle recently developed swelling in his right knee--not the one he drastically injured during the 2003 preseason--and will have it scoped. He is expected to be at full health for mini-camp.