D.C. Sports Media Approval Ratings: Kelli Johnson

What better way to kickoff Redskins Training Camp Week than with a look at some of the Reporters Who Cover the Redskins? And where better to start than with Kelli Johnson, the team’s beat reporter on Comcast SportsNet.

Johnson also anchors SportsNite and SportsRise, but she’s clearly made her biggest local impact as the source of both serious and silly Redskins reporting. Leonard Shapiro profiled her in these parts last season, providing all the necessary background information, along with quotes on how she approaches her job:

I enjoy doing the interviews. I try to ask the questions that need to be asked. I also take pride in sit-downs where you’re just not talking football. You talk about their lives, their families. It’s fun to get these guys to open up a little, and as a woman, it’s an area I think I have an advantage. It’s a little easier for a woman to show a softer side, to have a conversation about their lives. I think it’s an area I excel in, and it makes for good television.

Per her official bio, Johnson joined CSN in 2004, originally drawing the Orioles beat before switching to the Skins. She’s from Idaho, grew up a Seahawks fan, has worked in Austin and St. Louis, and was a four-year hoops starter at the University of Idaho, which she credits for helping her relate to pro athletes.

Bearing in mind that you have just two options, here’s your chance to judge Kelli Johnson. Choose carefully, and offer explanation below.

poll by twiigs.com

Previously, in order of approval: Steve Buckhantz, Dave Johnson, Joe Beninati, Sonny Jurgensen, Johnny Holliday, Charlie Slowes, Russ Thaler, Chick Hernandez, The Junkies, Mike Wise, Tony Kornheiser, Steve Czaban, Dave Feldman, Rick “Doc” Walker, George Michael, Brett Haber, John Riggins, Andy Pollin, Larry Michael.

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