THN will be profiling over a dozen players in the weeks leading up to the Washington Redskins 2005 Training Camp. Up next in the previews is offseason UFA pick-up, safety Tony Dixon.
Number: 29 Position: S Height: 6'1" Weight: 213 School: Alabama Major: Business Management (graduated 12/00) Hometown: - Birthday: 06/18/1979
How Acquired: Tony Dixon joined the Washington Redskins on June 18, 2005 as an unrestricted free agent. Dixon reportedly signed a one-year deal for the league minimum $540,000 base salary.
Professional Career: Dixon has spent his entire four-year career with the Dallas Cowboys. While in Dallas, Dixon appeared in 56 games, starting 15 games at both safety positions. During that time, he recorded 90 tackles (56 solo), six sacks, 10 pass deflections and one interception. In 2004 – a season in which Dixon made 7 of his 15 career starts -- he had 25 tackles (15 solo), three sacks, four pass breakups and his two forced fumbles tied him with Terrence Newman and Keith Davis for the most on the team. He also collected 49 tackles as a standout on special teams, leading the Cowboys with 20 special team tackles in 2003. The Cowboys acquired Dixon in the second round (56th overall) of the 2001 NFL draft.
Collegiate Career: Dixon was a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide. As a senior, he finished third on the team in tackles (90) and had two interceptions at free safety. During his junior year, he split time between strong and free safety. That year the Tide went 10-3 and won the SEC title.
High School Career: Dixon played both ways for the Pickens County High School Tornadoes. He was a four-year starter and also lettered in basketball and baseball, earning all-state football honors as a senior. That year he rushed for 1,450 yards and 18 scores, passed for two more and caught yet another. After graduating with an advanced diploma and finishing fourth in his class, Dixon became the first athlete from Pickens to sign a Division 1 scholarship.
Outlook: Contrary to ESPN / Pasquarelli reporting, Dixon’s signing had nothing to do with Taylor’s legal troubles. Dixon was signed to fill a spot on special teams. Barring injury, Dixon should be able to be a standout special teamer. Dixon will also add experience, intelligence and depth to the Redskin secondary. He’s a solid tackler and run defender and blitzes very well. His experience at both safety positions will allow Gregg Williams to get creative when deciding how best to use him.
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