According to the Washington Times, the Washington Redskins will not pursue any middle linebackers to replace last year’s starter, Antonio Pierce. Pierce signed a lucrative deal with the New York Giants Thursday. Sources close to the situation stated that Pierce gave the Redskins a chance to match the offer, however the Redskins were unable or unwilling to do so.
Replacing Pierce as the “defensive quarterback” may be Lemar Marshall. Marshall entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Michigan State in 1999. He was subsequently signed and released by the Buccaneers, Eagles and Broncos before catching on with the Redskins in 2002.
Playing mostly on special teams that season, he began to impress the organization with his speed and heart. Marshall’s career got a boost when LaVar Arrington went down in week two of last season with a knee injury. Marshall filled in admirably, posting 69 tackles and 1.5 sacks, as part of the NFL’s third ranked defense.
Reports also indicate that while cornerback Fred Smoot continues to visit teams today, the team will not budge from its last contract offer. Given the contracts being awarded to cornerbacks over the last few seasons, it may not bode well for Smoot’s future in the burgundy and gold.
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