Hunter Smith let everyone know who was to blame for the botched extra point: himself. Apparently the Redskins agreed, cutting Smith Tuesday and signing Sam Paulescu.
It’s doubtful the move was made because he let a high snap go through his hands in Sunday’s 17-16 loss to Tampa Bay on Sunday. Instead, Smith was inconsistent with his punts, averaging 40.5 yards per kick — a career low — and 33.7 net yards, which is his worst average since his rookie season in 1999.
Paulescu kicked one game for Washington last season, averaging 45 yards on three punts. He’s appeared in 17 games in his career, including one with Denver, and coach Mike Shanahan in 2007. He averaged 44.2 yards on five punts in that game. The 26-year-old Paulescu spent 10 games with Dallas in 2008, averaging 41.8 yards per punt.
Also, the Redskins worked out kickers Nick Novak and Kris Brown today. CSNWashington also reported that Chris Gould worked out. Shanahan said Monday that he would stick with Graham Gano, provided he’s healthy this week. Gano injured his ribs on the ill-fated extra point with nine seconds left Sunday.
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