The Redskins struck quickly on the first day of free agency in 2005, by reeling in one of the most coveted offensive lineman available. Center Casey Rabach, who has spent his entire 4 year career with the Baltimore Ravens, agreed to a multi-year contract with the Redskins just hours after free agency began early Wednesday morning. A joint press conference announcing Rabach’s arrival, along with the re-signing of left tackle Chris Samuels to a 7-year, $46.5 million contract which includes a team record $15.75 million signing bonus, is expected to be held at Redskins Park on Wednesday.
Rabach, 27, was selected by the Ravens in the third-round (92nd overall) of the 2001 Draft out of Wisconsin. He is considered a strong and versatile lineman capable of playing center as well as guard. He began his career in Baltimore as a backup. But eventually he garnered more playing time, starting 5 games in 2002 and starting 2 games while appearing in 14 games in 2003. In 2004, he started all 16 games, playing both guard and center. Rabach's addition will hopefully steady the center position where the Redskins struggled last year. Despite Rabach's signing, both of last year's centers Cory Raymer and Lennie Friedman can play all 3 interior positions, and either or both will provide much needed depth for the Redskin offensive line in 2005.
The Redskins also retained one of their own free agents on Wednesday. Defensive tackle Joe Salave’a, who signed with the Redskins last spring, was a valuable member of the Redskins’ No. 3 overall defense. The native Samoan logged 30 tackles, 2 sacks and 2 passes defended in 2004. He was an unrestricted free agent and was free to sign elsewhere but returning to Washington was his main priority.
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