After missing out on potential slot receiver and return man Eddie Royal, who reportedly signed a three-year, $13.5 million deal with the San Diego Chargers on Thursday, the Redskins turned their attention to shoring up a depleted secondary.
On Monday, Washington released starting free safety Oshiomogho Atogwe and allowed starting strong safety LaRon Landry to enter free agency on Tuesday.
Their first step towards adding to their defensive backfield involved signing two-time Pro Bowl safety Brandon Meriweather to a two-year, $6 million contract on Thursday. The five-year veteran had impressive seasons from 2008 to 2010 but was a part of the New England Patriots final round of pre-season cuts last September. The Chicago Bears quickly snatched up the 24th overall pick in 2007 but he had a rather quiet 2011 season with only four starts in 11 games played.
Today, the Redskins signed former Minnesota Vikings cornerback Cedric Griffin to a one-year contract. One reason he was signed to such a short deal was that he suffered an ACL tear in both knees in the 2010 calendar year. However, Griffin does bring versatility and could move to safety at some point.
Griffin attained career-highs in tackles in 2007 (92), passes defended and forced fumbles in 2008 (14 and four, respectively), and interceptions in 2009 (four).
The Redskins are also supposed to host former New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross today after he spent Thursday in Cincinnati visiting with the Bengals. Ross had a career year in 2011, logging 60 tackles, 12 passes defended and four interceptions while winning his second Super Bowl.
Washington also officially retained another free agent today when tight end Fred Davis signed his franchise tender. This all but assures his place on the 2012 roster and raises his salary to the top five among NFL tight ends.
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