The Redskins officially announced the signing of wide receiver Santana Moss to a contract extension on Thursday.
Moss, who was acquired in a trade with the New York Jets in exchange for Laveranues Coles, held out of the team’s voluntary workout session in early April due to his desire for a new deal with the Redskins. While away from Redskins Park, he spent his time in Miami working on specific training regimens.
Prior to the extension, Moss had one year remaining on his current contract, which he signed as a rookie in 2001. The new deal is reported to be a 6 year, $31 million contract.
In New York, he thrived on his speed and versatility as a punt returner. In 2004, Moss caught 45 passes for 838 yards and 5 touchdowns. He converted 35 of those 45 catches into first downs. Converting first downs on pass attempts was a difficult task for the Redskins in 2004, mainly due to Joe Gibbs’ emphasis on lateral passes and screens.
Moss has very high expectations of the 2005 season and is very eager to become associated with his new teammates. “Whatever you’re going to give me, I’m going to give back” said Moss.
Notes: The Redskins signed quarterback Bryson Spinner, running back Brock Forsey, former Kansas City Chiefs tight end Billy Baber, who will play h-back with the Redskins, and wide receiver Jimmy Farris. There have been players cut to make room for the additions but Coach Joe Gibbs would not release any names until the players have been contacted and notified.
The injury status of linebackers Mike Barrow and LaVar Arrington appear to be improving. Barrow has been rehabilitating from tendonitis in his left knee and Arrington has been recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery performed last month. Later in the week, Barrow will undergo an MRI to determine whether he can increase his running.
When asked to comment on the situation involving wide receiver Rod Gardner, Gibbs said that he doesn’t expect Gardner to attend the team’s offseason workouts and is skeptical that Rod will be with the Redskins this upcoming season.
ARTICLE TOOLS 
