****OFFICIAL**** Washington Redskins Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[buster c]

good non-moves by the Skins re Dock & Davis...

Posted at 11:22 AM ET, 03/ 4/2007

Kudos To The Skins

If what I am hearing from some agents - who are not directly involved in the negotiations - is true, then Leonard Davis is about to pocket close to $20 million guarnated of Jerry Jones's money, and the Skins have shown some welcome restraint.

This dude is a classic trap. Yeah, he's big and atheltic, but he also has a six-year body of work that shows he is exactly what he is. He was a big-time underachiver, but could always do just enough to make some scouts think, maybe, just maybe, if the work ethic improved the intensity cranked up he could be a beast. But he had serious warts and giving this guy Hutchinson/Dockery/Steinbach money - never thought I'd write this sentence - is way too dangerous.

If The Snyder and Coach Joe would have actually paid this dude I know several people at Redskins Park would have given up and thrown themselves off the roof.

The Cowboys were his primary suitors all along - many at The Park never figured he'd leave there without a contract in the first place - and after the Dockery signing came through, Davis's price went up. Dallas balked at first, so he jumped a plane to Ashburn, but I never got the feeling the Skins were going all out in any way to keep him. If anything I think they were finally on the receiving end of some gamesmanship, driving the price up and making Jerry nervous, rather in years past when other teams and agents used them as pawns to get the Redsking to essentially bid against themselves for certain free agents.

I also don't blame the Skins for holding the line on Dockery. At the end of the day we're still talking about a solid but unspectacular GUARD who had a strong 2006 season but also his share of struggles before that. Don't get me wrong, Dock could be the complete package and maybe his offseason dedication in 2006 is a sign of things to come, but still, for that kind of money? I can't see it. You're giving guards who never have shown a Pro Bowl pedigree more money than a lot of left tackles make.

So where do the Skins go now? Well, I think you can still get a solid guard on the street. Again,. talk to football people and they will tell you this is the easiest position to replace. You can slide backup centers and tackle often to the position and make the switch. Gaurds get the most help on the offensive line and it's the easiest position to get a starter out of the draft in the mid round in the draft (if the Skins trade down as many in the building hope to, look for them try to pick up a guard in the third round or so).

There were people on the staff who liked Montrae Holland, who signed a $1 million deal in Denver yesterday. Adam Timmerman would know the system from his time with Al Saunders in St. Louis, but many scouts think he's probably done a sa productive player. The sense I get is that there will be no rush here.

They'll also look for a tight end, probably even this week. But I don't see them breaking the bank there either.

Posted by Jason La Canfora

 

[DCThunder]

good non-moves by the Skins re Dock & Davis...Posted at 11:22 AM ET, 03/ 4/2007Kudos To The SkinsIf what I am hearing from some agents - who are not directly involved in the negotiations - is true, then Leonard Davis is about to pocket close to $20 million guarnated of Jerry Jones's money, and the Skins have shown some welcome restraint.This dude is a classic trap. Yeah, he's big and atheltic, but he also has a six-year body of work that shows he is exactly what he is. He was a big-time underachiver, but could always do just enough to make some scouts think, maybe, just maybe, if the work ethic improved the intensity cranked up he could be a beast. But he had serious warts and giving this guy Hutchinson/Dockery/Steinbach money - never thought I'd write this sentence - is way too dangerous.If The Snyder and Coach Joe would have actually paid this dude I know several people at Redskins Park would have given up and thrown themselves off the roof.The Cowboys were his primary suitors all along - many at The Park never figured he'd leave there without a contract in the first place - and after the Dockery signing came through, Davis's price went up. Dallas balked at first, so he jumped a plane to Ashburn, but I never got the feeling the Skins were going all out in any way to keep him. If anything I think they were finally on the receiving end of some gamesmanship, driving the price up and making Jerry nervous, rather in years past when other teams and agents used them as pawns to get the Redsking to essentially bid against themselves for certain free agents.I also don't blame the Skins for holding the line on Dockery. At the end of the day we're still talking about a solid but unspectacular GUARD who had a strong 2006 season but also his share of struggles before that. Don't get me wrong, Dock could be the complete package and maybe his offseason dedication in 2006 is a sign of things to come, but still, for that kind of money? I can't see it. You're giving guards who never have shown a Pro Bowl pedigree more money than a lot of left tackles make.So where do the Skins go now? Well, I think you can still get a solid guard on the street. Again,. talk to football people and they will tell you this is the easiest position to replace. You can slide backup centers and tackle often to the position and make the switch. Gaurds get the most help on the offensive line and it's the easiest position to get a starter out of the draft in the mid round in the draft (if the Skins trade down as many in the building hope to, look for them try to pick up a guard in the third round or so).There were people on the staff who liked Montrae Holland, who signed a $1 million deal in Denver yesterday. Adam Timmerman would know the system from his time with Al Saunders in St. Louis, but many scouts think he's probably done a sa productive player. The sense I get is that there will be no rush here.They'll also look for a tight end, probably even this week. But I don't see them breaking the bank there either. Posted by Jason La Canfora

Good analysis (as usual) by La Canfora. Maybe that idiot John Kincaide whould have read it before he blathered on for 20 minutes today on ESPN radio about how Snyder's a fool who does nothing but overpay for over-the-hill talent like Fletcher. You know, I don't mind when guys like BMitch or Czabe bad-mouth the Skins, because they truly want the team to get better. But when national guys (and Eagles fan to boot) like Kincaide take cheap shots, it really frosts me.

 

[Marvelous]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Joe Gibbs talks a lot about core guys and team chemistry. But I think he missed the boat big time on Antonio Pierce and Ryan Clark. Both are over-achievers who picked up the defense quickly and were on the field leaders. They were the brains of the defense. The Redskins negotiated extensively with Pierce, but he hit the free agent market and accepted a slightly better deal with the Giants. But I don't think they seriously negotiated with Ryan Clark and then spent big time on Adam Archuleta.

 

[dannyboy]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Precisely. The Duckett trade.. When someone at Redskins Park starts to understand building through the draft is a good thing, and having some foresight on extending players before they hit the FA market, we'll know the apocolypse is upon us.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

Not that I would ever turn in my Redskins Card, but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT Trade Betts or Portis for BLY

 

[cscmtp]

Not that I would ever turn in my Redskins Card, but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT Trade Betts or Portis for BLY

 

[fatness]

Luke Pettigout was at Redskin Park today. I think he already passed a physical for Tampa last week (he broke his leg last year, is rumored to have back problems). The Redskins would want him to move from tackle to take Dockery's guard spot.

edit: forgot the Link

edited to add: when I went to the Redskins/Giants game in 2005 (the only Skins game I've ever attended) we were sitting in seats Pettigout had gotten for family, I believe, and could not use. Great seats.

 

[nittanylion]

Luke Pettigout was at Redskin Park today. I think he already passed a physical for Tampa last week (he broke his leg last year, is rumored to have back problems). The Redskins would want him to move from tackle to take Dockery's guard spot.

edit: forgot the Link

edited to add: when I went to the Redskins/Giants game in 2005 (the only Skins game I've ever attended) we were sitting in seats Pettigout had gotten for family, I believe, and could not use. Great seats.

We have to fix this...Contact me via PM later this year if you are interested in attending a game / games this season...

...oh, and you'll be sitting in GREAT seats, btw...

 

[fatness]

Thanks, I may have to take you up on that. The game I went to was the most fun I've ever had standing up.

 

[redman]

Thanks, I may have to take you up on that. The game I went to was the most fun I've ever had standing up.

You need to be more creative, Big Guy.

 

[thayman]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Precisely. The Duckett trade.. When someone at Redskins Park starts to understand building through the draft is a good thing, and having some foresight on extending players before they hit the FA market, we'll know the apocolypse is upon us.

The Duckett trade is hard to be mad at though. You have to remember at the time Portis's injury was unclear and they were not sure how long he would be out, Betts has always been a good backup, but I don't think anyone thought he would be as good as he was last year. They knew they needed someone in there and yes they overpaid but I'm pretty sure Denver knew we needed someone badly and were happy to bend us over....

 

[redman]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Precisely. The Duckett trade.. When someone at Redskins Park starts to understand building through the draft is a good thing, and having some foresight on extending players before they hit the FA market, we'll know the apocolypse is upon us.

The Duckett trade is hard to be mad at though. You have to remember at the time Portis's injury was unclear and they were not sure how long he would be out, Betts has always been a good backup, but I don't think anyone thought he would be as good as he was last year. They knew they needed someone in there and yes they overpaid but I'm pretty sure Denver knew we needed someone badly and were happy to bend us over....

Betts was also injured at the time and unable to practice, though he figured to return. Also don't forget that, while it seems silly in hindsight, this was a team that was just coming off of a playoff appearance the year before and had high hopes for 2006. The deal was not nearly as bad at the time as it ended up being with the benefit of hindsight, but the biggest criticism I have of it is that Gibbs & Co. after two years with the guy didn't have any idea how talented Betts was. That's distressing.

 

[dgreen]

Luke Pettigout was at Redskin Park today. I think he already passed a physical for Tampa last week (he broke his leg last year, is rumored to have back problems). The Redskins would want him to move from tackle to take Dockery's guard spot.

edit: forgot the Link

edited to add: when I went to the Redskins/Giants game in 2005 (the only Skins game I've ever attended) we were sitting in seats Pettigout had gotten for family, I believe, and could not use. Great seats.

We have to fix this...Contact me via PM later this year if you are interested in attending a game / games this season...

...oh, and you'll be sitting in GREAT seats, btw...

If you want sucky seats, PM me.

 

[Rig24]

Adam Schefter of the NFL Network and PewterReport.com report that former Giants left tackle Luke Petitgout has agreed in principle with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Petitgout visited the Bucs last week and passed a physical. He recently visited the Redskins, who wanted to move him to left guard.

It's believed that Petitgout will play left tackle in Tampa.

 

[nittanylion]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/footbal...-home-headlines

Edwin M would be a juicy consolation prize for losing Dock to the Bills.

Torn triceps landed him on IR in Sept/Oct '06 - if it's OK, he's got a little less mileage on him than his age/yrs indicate. Plus, by all accounts, he's a solid locker room guy as well as a beast of a road grader on the field...

...Time to fire up 'Redskins Two' for a cruise up I-95 to bring this feller into the fold...

 

[toxicbees]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Precisely. The Duckett trade.. When someone at Redskins Park starts to understand building through the draft is a good thing, and having some foresight on extending players before they hit the FA market, we'll know the apocolypse is upon us.

The Duckett trade is hard to be mad at though. You have to remember at the time Portis's injury was unclear and they were not sure how long he would be out, Betts has always been a good backup, but I don't think anyone thought he would be as good as he was last year. They knew they needed someone in there and yes they overpaid but I'm pretty sure Denver knew we needed someone badly and were happy to bend us over....

I think trading away a 3rd and a 4th round pick for Brandon Lloyd was a terrible move.

 

[redman]

The Redskins' biggest sin is not in getting FA's, it's in trading away draft picks. That's hurting them right now where they have no apparent replacement for Dockery, which is precisely the kind of guy they could/should have drafted with one of those mid-round picks they've so freely given away in years past.

Precisely. The Duckett trade.. When someone at Redskins Park starts to understand building through the draft is a good thing, and having some foresight on extending players before they hit the FA market, we'll know the apocolypse is upon us.

The Duckett trade is hard to be mad at though. You have to remember at the time Portis's injury was unclear and they were not sure how long he would be out, Betts has always been a good backup, but I don't think anyone thought he would be as good as he was last year. They knew they needed someone in there and yes they overpaid but I'm pretty sure Denver knew we needed someone badly and were happy to bend us over....

I think trading away a 3rd and a 4th round pick for Brandon Lloyd was a terrible move.

You probably have a better argument there. They also had to sign him to a new contract. His talent and age were right for that type of arrangement, but his attitude sucks.

 

[buster c]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/footbal...-home-headlines

Edwin M would be a juicy consolation prize for losing Dock to the Bills.

Torn triceps landed him on IR in Sept/Oct '06 - if it's OK, he's got a little less mileage on him than his age/yrs indicate. Plus, by all accounts, he's a solid locker room guy as well as a beast of a road grader on the field...

...Time to fire up 'Redskins Two' for a cruise up I-95 to bring this feller into the fold...

this is what I was thinking. would be a great move. PFT's angle:

RAVENS SCREW MULITALO

Okay, so let's get this straight. The Ravens are afraid to use the franchise tag on a player like Adalius Thomas because it's a sign of disrespect to pay a guy a one-year, multi-million-dollar salary, or to try to get value for his rights via a trade.

But it's fine to cut a guy nearly a week into free agency, after the big money has begun to dry up?

It's precisely what the Ravens have done to long-time starting guard Edwin Mulitalo.

"When you release a player like Edwin, it gives you pause," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "This is the cold side of the business. All he did was everything we asked him to do and more. He gave us stability at left guard. He was always an example to his teammates as to how a professional should conduct himself."

So why not show your gratitude by putting him on the market as of March 2?

It makes no sense, and it causes us to regard Billick's statements as hollow.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/footbal...-home-headlines

Edwin M would be a juicy consolation prize for losing Dock to the Bills.

Torn triceps landed him on IR in Sept/Oct '06 - if it's OK, he's got a little less mileage on him than his age/yrs indicate. Plus, by all accounts, he's a solid locker room guy as well as a beast of a road grader on the field...

...Time to fire up 'Redskins Two' for a cruise up I-95 to bring this feller into the fold...

this is what I was thinking. would be a great move. PFT's angle:

RAVENS SCREW MULITALO

Okay, so let's get this straight. The Ravens are afraid to use the franchise tag on a player like Adalius Thomas because it's a sign of disrespect to pay a guy a one-year, multi-million-dollar salary, or to try to get value for his rights via a trade.

But it's fine to cut a guy nearly a week into free agency, after the big money has begun to dry up?

It's precisely what the Ravens have done to long-time starting guard Edwin Mulitalo.

"When you release a player like Edwin, it gives you pause," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "This is the cold side of the business. All he did was everything we asked him to do and more. He gave us stability at left guard. He was always an example to his teammates as to how a professional should conduct himself."

So why not show your gratitude by putting him on the market as of March 2?

It makes no sense, and it causes us to regard Billick's statements as hollow.

Billick has always been such an ###.For you Skin's homers, I got a few dumb questions cuz I havent paid much attention to the skins as of late.

What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year. Whats the RB situation looking like? How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

 

[Marvelous]

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/footbal...-home-headlines

Edwin M would be a juicy consolation prize for losing Dock to the Bills.

Torn triceps landed him on IR in Sept/Oct '06 - if it's OK, he's got a little less mileage on him than his age/yrs indicate. Plus, by all accounts, he's a solid locker room guy as well as a beast of a road grader on the field...

...Time to fire up 'Redskins Two' for a cruise up I-95 to bring this feller into the fold...

this is what I was thinking. would be a great move. PFT's angle:

RAVENS SCREW MULITALO

Okay, so let's get this straight. The Ravens are afraid to use the franchise tag on a player like Adalius Thomas because it's a sign of disrespect to pay a guy a one-year, multi-million-dollar salary, or to try to get value for his rights via a trade.

But it's fine to cut a guy nearly a week into free agency, after the big money has begun to dry up?

It's precisely what the Ravens have done to long-time starting guard Edwin Mulitalo.

"When you release a player like Edwin, it gives you pause," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "This is the cold side of the business. All he did was everything we asked him to do and more. He gave us stability at left guard. He was always an example to his teammates as to how a professional should conduct himself."

So why not show your gratitude by putting him on the market as of March 2?

It makes no sense, and it causes us to regard Billick's statements as hollow.

There are only two reasons to possible wait to cut a player like this:1. To screw the player over

2. To try to re-sign him to a lower contract, which really gets back to number 1.

 

[dgreen]

What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year.

Oddly enough, QB is one of least concerns on offense. He definitely looked promising last year and I'll be shocked if he doesn't progress nicely.

Whats the RB situation looking like?

Most non-Skins homers will tell you Betts is going to seriously cut into Portis' touches. Skins homers, on the other hand, will admit Betts will cut in some, but still believe Portis is, without question, the man.

How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

Not a deep sleeper, but I can see Moss rebounding nicely.

 

[Domination]

Ross Tucker signs with Skins. Not a big name but a quality player. Possibly fill Dockery's spot at guard?

http://www.redskins.com/news/newsDetail.jsp?id=3571

 

[fatness]

For you Skin's homers, I got a few dumb questions cuz I havent paid much attention to the skins as of late.What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year. Whats the RB situation looking like? How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

Campbell progressed as he played last year. I don't see any reason that won't keep up this year. Having both Betts and Portis will make it easier to keep more drives going. I think Portis is the main guy, but Betts will play plenty. WR sleepers? Brandon Lloyd slept a lot last year.

 

[fatness]

Sportstalk 980 this evening said that a source says the Redskins and Broncos already have a trade worked out, but that the parameters of it are different than what's been discussed.

Bly + Broncos 1st round pick + EITHER the Broncos 2nd or 3rd round pick

for

Springs + Redskins 1st round pick

They speculated that the Broncos are just stalling now, hoping the Redskins will cave in a bit more. I hope they don't; that trade already looks bad to me.

 

[redman]

Sportstalk 980 this evening said that a source says the Redskins and Broncos already have a trade worked out, but that the parameters of it are different than what's been discussed.

Bly + Broncos 1st round pick + EITHER the Broncos 2nd or 3rd round pick

for

Springs + Redskins 1st round pick

They speculated that the Broncos are just stalling now, hoping the Redskins will cave in a bit more. I hope they don't; that trade already looks bad to me.

 

[redman]

For you Skin's homers, I got a few dumb questions cuz I havent paid much attention to the skins as of late.What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year. Whats the RB situation looking like? How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

I'm very high on him and I'm hoping I'm not being too much of a homer here, but the guy threw TD's in every single start he had and had a 10/6 TD/INT ratio, all without Portis and with Moss ailing and missing some games too. He's never taken reps with the first team prior to starting either. He already throws a great deep ball (and that plus Moss = ) and he's also shown a good pocket presence and field awareness, and good touch on crossing patterns. His teammates love his composure. I personally think he's a lock for 20+ TD's and 3000+ yards in that offense. Saunders has finally figured out what that offense does well and I think it's going to come together next year. An improved defense can only help things.

 

[Jinks]

Sportstalk 980 this evening said that a source says the Redskins and Broncos already have a trade worked out, but that the parameters of it are different than what's been discussed.Bly + Broncos 1st round pick + EITHER the Broncos 2nd or 3rd round pickforSprings + Redskins 1st round pickThey speculated that the Broncos are just stalling now, hoping the Redskins will cave in a bit more. I hope they don't; that trade already looks bad to me.

Springs worries me as a fan. Yes, he's had a great track record, and when healthy, he's as good as any CB in the league. Problem is, he suffered through a terrible year in 2006. He started with a major injury that left him out till midway through the season, and when he did get back in the lineup he wasn't himself. He looked too heavy and more than a step slower. If the Skins can get a guy like Bly in the deal and still have a 1st and 2nd round pick to show for it, this seems like a no-brainer. The 2007 draft is supposed to be pretty deep at DE and they would likely still get a good player at that position later in the 1st round.

 

[pablito]

What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year. Whats the RB situation looking like? How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

I am personally expecting ARE to start the season as the #2 WR and post some decent numbers in 07.

 

[redman]

What are you guys thinking about Campbell this year, he looked promising last year. Whats the RB situation looking like? How about the WR situation, any sleepers for FF deep rounds?

I am personally expecting ARE to start the season as the #2 WR and post some decent numbers in 07.

I completely agree. The Smurfs are back!

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

T.J. Duckett (RB) DET 3/10/2007

The Lions have reached a contract agreement with Duckett, Mlive.com reports. His deal is reportedly for one year and worth between $1.5 million-$2 million. He gives the Lions a solid short-yardage and goal-line back to roll out along with recently acquired Tatum Bell. His signing is an indication that the team isn't counting on Kevin Jones, at least early on. It's a fairly low-risk deal for Detroit and for his part, Duckett hopes to re-establish himself in 2007 and then possibly go back into the free agent market again next spring.

Nice waste of a draft pick last year!!!!!!!!

 

[fatness]

The Redskins have re-signed D-lineman Ryan Boschetti. They've exercised their option to keep Brandon Lloyd. They've delayed their option deadline for Adam Archuleta.

at bottom of article: Washington Post link

The whole article is about Jason Campbell. Nothing particularly revealing.

 

[fatness]

Todd Yoder, signed him they have .

 

[redman]

Todd Yoder, signed him they have .

 

[redman]

Looks like they're close to signing Todd Wade and intend to play him at LG:

Pro Football

Redskins Close to Re-Signing Offensive Lineman

Thursday, March 15, 2007; Page E02

The Washington Redskins had made significant progress toward re-signing offensive lineman Todd Wade as of late last night, and could finalize a deal soon, according to sources with knowledge of the situation.

Wade, 30, started one game at right tackle last season, thriving in a victory at New Orleans, after being signed at the start of the season. He performed at a consistently high level in practice, according to numerous defensive players who faced him regularly.

Wade, a natural tackle, could be moved to replace starting left guard Derrick Dockery, who departed for Buffalo this month in free agency. Wade had hoped to find a starting tackle spot elsewhere but has been unable to, and the Redskins have maintained interest in him throughout the offseason.

Several players said privately that facing Wade in practice last season was often more difficult than going against starting tackle Jon Jansen, and Wade's return, when coupled with the re-signing of Mike Pucillo, would give Washington solid depth at vital positions.

Wade (6 feet 8, 317 pounds) was originally selected 53rd overall by Miami in 2000 and was signed to a hefty contract by Houston in 2004, including a $10 million bonus. He started 13 games for the Texans that season but suffered a career-threatening knee injury in 2005, and was signed by the Redskins last September. He recovered from the knee problems and, should the sides complete a multiyear deal as expected, could fill a crucial role in 2007.

-- Jason La Canfora

 

[Sidewinder16]

Looks like they're close to signing Todd Wade and intend to play him at LG:

Pro Football

Redskins Close to Re-Signing Offensive Lineman

Thursday, March 15, 2007; Page E02

The Washington Redskins had made significant progress toward re-signing offensive lineman Todd Wade as of late last night, and could finalize a deal soon, according to sources with knowledge of the situation.

Wade, 30, started one game at right tackle last season, thriving in a victory at New Orleans, after being signed at the start of the season. He performed at a consistently high level in practice, according to numerous defensive players who faced him regularly.

Wade, a natural tackle, could be moved to replace starting left guard Derrick Dockery, who departed for Buffalo this month in free agency. Wade had hoped to find a starting tackle spot elsewhere but has been unable to, and the Redskins have maintained interest in him throughout the offseason.

Several players said privately that facing Wade in practice last season was often more difficult than going against starting tackle Jon Jansen, and Wade's return, when coupled with the re-signing of Mike Pucillo, would give Washington solid depth at vital positions.

Wade (6 feet 8, 317 pounds) was originally selected 53rd overall by Miami in 2000 and was signed to a hefty contract by Houston in 2004, including a $10 million bonus. He started 13 games for the Texans that season but suffered a career-threatening knee injury in 2005, and was signed by the Redskins last September. He recovered from the knee problems and, should the sides complete a multiyear deal as expected, could fill a crucial role in 2007.

-- Jason La Canfora

Even though Wade is "a natural tackle", I feel much better about using him as a replacement for Dockery than bringing in an outsider. I had a sinking feeling that the chemistry of the line was going to take a big hit, but I'm starting to like what the team has done so far (signing Tucker, bringing back Pucillo and Wade).

 

[thayman]

T.J. Duckett (RB) DET 3/10/2007 The Lions have reached a contract agreement with Duckett, Mlive.com reports. His deal is reportedly for one year and worth between $1.5 million-$2 million. He gives the Lions a solid short-yardage and goal-line back to roll out along with recently acquired Tatum Bell. His signing is an indication that the team isn't counting on Kevin Jones, at least early on. It's a fairly low-risk deal for Detroit and for his part, Duckett hopes to re-establish himself in 2007 and then possibly go back into the free agent market again next spring. Nice waste of a draft pick last year!!!!!!!!

In hindsight yeah it was a waste. At the time that was really the only move that made any sense at all. Betts was not 100% healthy, Portis's injury was a ? they overpaid and got screwed, but it was really the only insurance policy available to the team.

 

[redman]

T.J. Duckett (RB) DET 3/10/2007 The Lions have reached a contract agreement with Duckett, Mlive.com reports. His deal is reportedly for one year and worth between $1.5 million-$2 million. He gives the Lions a solid short-yardage and goal-line back to roll out along with recently acquired Tatum Bell. His signing is an indication that the team isn't counting on Kevin Jones, at least early on. It's a fairly low-risk deal for Detroit and for his part, Duckett hopes to re-establish himself in 2007 and then possibly go back into the free agent market again next spring. Nice waste of a draft pick last year!!!!!!!!

In hindsight yeah it was a waste. At the time that was really the only move that made any sense at all. Betts was not 100% healthy, Portis's injury was a ? they overpaid and got screwed, but it was really the only insurance policy available to the team.

I'd be lying if I said I was opposed to this acquisition, but I was ambivalent. File this one under the category, "it seemed like a good idea at the time."

 

[fatness]

Looks like they're close to signing Todd Wade and intend to play him at LG:

ESPN says they've reached agreement with Wade. Link

The Washington Redskins on Thursday bought themselves some insurance on the offensive line, and a possible starter as well, when they reached agreement to re-sign veteran blocker and unrestricted free agent Todd Wade.

Wade, who appeared in two games for the Redskins in 2006 after signing with the team just before the start of the regular season, will sign a two-year contract worth slightly more than $6 million.

The retention of Wade assures the Redskins a solid No. 3 tackle behind starters Chris Samuels and Jon Jansen. Perhaps more important, however, it could provide Washington with its new starting left guard.

Wade, 30, has not played guard previously in his career, but the Redskins are seeking a replacement for standout Derrick Dockery, who departed as an unrestricted free agent two weeks ago. Because of his toughness and tenacity, the Washington coaches feel that Wade can make the transition to guard, and that he might be a better candidate for the position than any of the veterans remaining in the free agent pool.

Certainly a move to guard, especially if it allowed Wade to become a starter again, might re-energize his career. Wade was unceremoniously released by the Houston Texans last July because the new coaching staff there did not feel he was a good fit for the system they were installing.

If I remember correctly he played several games last year and played surprisingly well according to the other O-linemen and the coaches.

 

[fatness]

The Skins are not trying to trade up to draft Jamarcus Russell. It's likely a story made up by his agents.

LaCanfora Blog

First of all, before this becomes an internet craze and takes on a life of its own, I have people in authority at Redskins Park telling me with much vigor that the team is in no way trying to trade up and take the LSU QB first overall. There is nothing to this at all. Get your fingers off the mouse and do not send another email floating this junk. No need to waste any more time on it.

The Skins love Campbell and want to give him every chance to succeed. They are actually trying to trade down from everything I've heard and the idea that The Owner is infatuated with Russell and willing to blow up this draft and trade a potential franchise QB they gave up a lot of get just two years ago is naive. The Snyder commands ultimate authority over there, but this idea, as reported on Yahoo.com, is lunacy.

Everybody takes their shots at The Snyder for one reason or another, but at least have some facts in line before you do. Everything I have heard tells me that Russell's agents are behind this, spoon-feeding it to reporters at the Pro Day, to create a market for their player. They want Oakland to have to compete with someone to get every last dollar for their client, and creating the perception that Dan The Man was going to offering huge money and trying to get this kid only helps their position.

I actually spoke to one of his reprensatives Wed. night - I called earlier about a completely unrelated matter and never gave consideration for a second that the Skins were after Russell - and got an earfull of how much the Skins love him and Snyder is out to get him.

Again, I am told this is completely false, and I wouldn't be shocked that should this rumor get too out of control Coach Joe might even come out and make a statement on it if need be. For now, though, they hope it dies and isn't something that JC would heard about or have to worry about, because it's not true.

 

[redman]

Looks like they're close to signing Todd Wade and intend to play him at LG:

ESPN says they've reached agreement with Wade. Link

The Washington Redskins on Thursday bought themselves some insurance on the offensive line, and a possible starter as well, when they reached agreement to re-sign veteran blocker and unrestricted free agent Todd Wade.

Wade, who appeared in two games for the Redskins in 2006 after signing with the team just before the start of the regular season, will sign a two-year contract worth slightly more than $6 million.

The retention of Wade assures the Redskins a solid No. 3 tackle behind starters Chris Samuels and Jon Jansen. Perhaps more important, however, it could provide Washington with its new starting left guard.

Wade, 30, has not played guard previously in his career, but the Redskins are seeking a replacement for standout Derrick Dockery, who departed as an unrestricted free agent two weeks ago. Because of his toughness and tenacity, the Washington coaches feel that Wade can make the transition to guard, and that he might be a better candidate for the position than any of the veterans remaining in the free agent pool.

Certainly a move to guard, especially if it allowed Wade to become a starter again, might re-energize his career. Wade was unceremoniously released by the Houston Texans last July because the new coaching staff there did not feel he was a good fit for the system they were installing.

If I remember correctly he played several games last year and played surprisingly well according to the other O-linemen and the coaches.

Wade's contract is three years, $6M, with $4.5M guaranteed. Now think about the 7-year, $50M contracts, with around $18M that was guaranteed, being paid to Dockery and Davis and tell me that that wasn't ridiculous.

Yeah, Wade's untested at guard but he impressed a lot of people last year and Buges knows how to move tackles over and teach them to play guard (Jacoby, May).

 

[fatness]

What I remember from the 2 games he started last year is some talk within the Redskins that he played better than Jansen. If that's the case, and he can move to guard and do nearly as well, they've made a hell of a move.

 

[dannyboy]

From a pass protection perspective, I would assume Wade over Dock is an upgrade. It's easier to pass protect on the interior especially if you have the quick feet needed to protect as a outside tackle. What will be interesting to see is how Wade can run block, and pull. Wash. still pulls out the ol counter trey from time to time, or variations with guards pulling.

I think the Wade signing is encouraging though, and a great solution to the void left by Dock cashing in.

I still want them to hold on to that #6 pick and draft a DE there. Or if they can slide to get a additional picks and still be able to get a quality DL, I'm for that.

 

[redman]

From a pass protection perspective, I would assume Wade over Dock is an upgrade. It's easier to pass protect on the interior especially if you have the quick feet needed to protect as a outside tackle. What will be interesting to see is how Wade can run block, and pull. Wash. still pulls out the ol counter trey from time to time, or variations with guards pulling.

I think the Wade signing is encouraging though, and a great solution to the void left by Dock cashing in.

I still want them to hold on to that #6 pick and draft a DE there. Or if they can slide to get a additional picks and still be able to get a quality DL, I'm for that.

Agreed, however it's also not unusual for the team to have their tackles swing out wide ahead of running plays. The distance covered is not the same for a tackle as it is a pulling guard, but he's not going to be unfamiliar with blocking on the move in space. I'm just very happy with the way they've managed this situation. I was thinking Mulitalo was going to be about as good of a solution as they could find for this situation, but he's two years older than Wade. and has injury problems and age problems (and weight problems) that appear to have permanently degraded his play. Wade seems over his injuries that hurt him in 2004 and 2005 and seems to still be in his prime.

 

[AB in DC]

Wade may be fine at LG, but what this team needs is depth, and plugging in their only good backup OL as a starter doesn't get you there.

 

[redman]

Wade may be fine at LG, but what this team needs is depth, and plugging in their only good backup OL as a starter doesn't get you there.

They have Pucillo (G-C) Tucker (G) and Lefotu (decent G prospect) for depth. If a tackle goes down, Wade slides over to fill and one of those guys fills in. They're fine now, and I agree that they weren't in good shape in this area as of two weeks ago.

 

[DCThunder]

Wade may be fine at LG, but what this team needs is depth, and plugging in their only good backup OL as a starter doesn't get you there.

They have Pucillo (G-C) Tucker (G) and Lefotu (decent G prospect) for depth. If a tackle goes down, Wade slides over to fill and one of those guys fills in. They're fine now, and I agree that they weren't in good shape in this area as of two weeks ago.

I'd also wager that they sign a couple of undrafted FAs and see if any of them can make the practice squad for depth on down the road. Jansen (espcially) and Samuels are starting to get some milage on them, so they do need some young OLmen. Obviously Molinaro wasn't the solution to longterm tackle depth.

 

[fatness]

The Redskins and Archuleta need to make up their minds by this Wednesday. Washington Post article

The Washington Redskins must work out a new contract or a deal for safety Adam Archuleta by Wednesday, when he will be owed a $5 million guaranteed bonus. The sides agreed to postpone that bonus -- which was due last Monday, according to sources with knowledge of the situation -- as the Redskins continued to figure out how to part with Archuleta, who was benched for much of last season after being made the highest-paid safety in NFL history.

Archuleta, who says he did not speak to the defensive coaching staff for much of the season, would not be averse to a change. Trading him will not be easy given the $5 million he is still due, and the team and Archuleta's agent, Gary Wichard, are exploring ways to either release him without taking a big salary cap hit or trade him, sources said.

Archuleta's bonus is guaranteed, meaning he will get the $5 million even if he is released. Should the Redskins execute the option and keep Archuleta -- the staff has not been informed to make contingency plans for his departure, sources said -- he would count $2.4 million against the 2007 salary cap.

Should they cut Archuleta, he would count about $9 million against the 2007 cap. Should Washington not execute the option but keep Archuleta, he would count $6.4 million against this year's cap.

Several NFL executives said they believe Archuleta likely would have to rework his contract to facilitate a trade. Last week, Wichard said his client would reject any deal that cost him any guaranteed money, but the agent has not returned calls since agreeing to the postponement.

Chicago, which needs depth at safety, was interested in Archuleta a year ago but the Bears are unlikely to absorb his current deal, league sources said, although he could be intriguing at a lesser price.

 

[redman]

The Redskins and Archuleta need to make up their minds by this Wednesday. Washington Post article

The Washington Redskins must work out a new contract or a deal for safety Adam Archuleta by Wednesday, when he will be owed a $5 million guaranteed bonus. The sides agreed to postpone that bonus -- which was due last Monday, according to sources with knowledge of the situation -- as the Redskins continued to figure out how to part with Archuleta, who was benched for much of last season after being made the highest-paid safety in NFL history.

Archuleta, who says he did not speak to the defensive coaching staff for much of the season, would not be averse to a change. Trading him will not be easy given the $5 million he is still due, and the team and Archuleta's agent, Gary Wichard, are exploring ways to either release him without taking a big salary cap hit or trade him, sources said.

Archuleta's bonus is guaranteed, meaning he will get the $5 million even if he is released. Should the Redskins execute the option and keep Archuleta -- the staff has not been informed to make contingency plans for his departure, sources said -- he would count $2.4 million against the 2007 salary cap.

Should they cut Archuleta, he would count about $9 million against the 2007 cap. Should Washington not execute the option but keep Archuleta, he would count $6.4 million against this year's cap.

Several NFL executives said they believe Archuleta likely would have to rework his contract to facilitate a trade. Last week, Wichard said his client would reject any deal that cost him any guaranteed money, but the agent has not returned calls since agreeing to the postponement.

Chicago, which needs depth at safety, was interested in Archuleta a year ago but the Bears are unlikely to absorb his current deal, league sources said, although he could be intriguing at a lesser price.

The Archuleta signing, particularly the amount paid to him, was by far the worst personnel debacle of Gibbs II. People were critical of Brunell's contract, but the guy at least played and proved to a degree that Gibbs was right to have seen some promise in him. Archuleta was an unmitigated disaster and, while not everything about his failure at safety is attributable to him (the injuries on defense didn't allow him to be played as originally intended) the fact is that there was absolutely no excuse for signing a guy with as many limits to his game as he had for so much money. Your name had damn well be Ronnie Lott before you get that kind of dough. I tried to have an open mind about it, but I didn't even like it at the time.

 

[fatness]

And besides Archuleta's signing being a disaster, the Redskins undermined their position with him (and his attitude towards them) by leaking the coaching staff's unhappiness with Archuleta to the press throughout the latter part of the season.

They sign him for a lot of money. They bury him on the depth chart. They badmouth him all year. They now want him to take a pay cut so they can trade him.

That's outstandingly stupid behavior on their part.

 

[buster c]

I'm on record as hating the AA signing from the day it happened...but I also realize that the deeper issue is not AA himself. It is the individual(s) inside Redskin Park who decided he was worth acquiring. At any price. In place of Ryan Clark.