Taking it Easier?

By Mark Solway | Category: Washington Redskins News
Originally Posted: 2004-03-05

Day two of free agency was a little bit slower than day one for the Redskins... a little bit. Well, not really. The Redskins continued their free agency plan yesterday with another solid addition to the defense, a couple of veteran re-signings and a couple of press conferences to introduce new players.

Marcus Washington is believed to have agreed to a 6-year $24 million contract. The former Indianapolis Colt will be introduced today or tomorrow at Redskin Park. The 6'3" 250 lb linebacker turned down a Pittsburgh offer in favor of the Redskins', which included a $7 million signing bonus. The Steelers are believed to only have been offering $5M. The addition makes the hole created by Jessie Armstead's release very short-lived.

The Redskins also re-signed both Kevin Mitchell and Ethan Albright. Both are inexpensive depth additions that are necessary to augment some of these big contract acquisitions. Albright has been outstanding as the long snapper, and fills a valuable, though under-appreciated role. Mitchell provides great depth at MLB and brings leadership and special team ability. He provides the luxury of little drop off in performance if Jeremiah Trotter were to be injured.

Press Conferences were also held at 2pm and 5pm to introduce Clinton Portis and Shawn Springs respectively. Springs was very confident and relaxed enough to joke around a fair bit, while Portis was young and brash. Springs joked about being a Cowboy fan, as his father played for Dallas. He also joked about how much he loved Redskin One. But as a former high school star at Springbrook, and Silver Spring native, he seemed genuinely excited to be back 'home'. Holding up a #24 jersey, Springs began his tenure as 'Champ's replacement'. The 7-year veteran signed a 6-year, $30 million contract.

Former Redskin Walter Rasby left Redskin Park without signing a contract.

-- Bosshog

This article was released on 2004-03-05.

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