On a day in which the Redskins cut key veterans, many of whom were 30 years or older, they decided one such player was worth keeping around: defensive end Phillip Daniels.
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Daniels re-signed with the Redskins Thursday, accepting a two-year deal on the same day he turned 37.
“It was a good birthday present, but the Redskins got a present in getting me back, too,” he said.
Guess we should mention here that GM Bruce Allen called Daniels to wish him a happy birthday.
Now, back to the story. Daniels is returning for one reason: He fills a need. At approximately 300 pounds, Daniels can play end in both a 3-4 and a 4-3 front. The Redskins plan on using both alignments this season. Considering the loss of three captains Thursday — Rock Cartwright and Cornelius Griffin, both of whom were cut, and Chris Samuels, who retired — the Redskins also opted to retain a veteran leader. It also doesn’t matter to Daniels if he starts or is a backup.
“They value my leadership with the team, how I played and how I came back from the [knee injury in 2008] and did not miss practice,” Daniels said. “The knee should be stronger because it’ll be two years removed. And for what they’re trying to do defensively, I’m the one guy that fits it really well.”
As for losing players such as Griffin, whom he was close to, and guard Randy Thomas, whose locker was next to his, Daniels called it part of the business.
“I talked to all those guys and I was really surprised by Griff not coming back,” he said. “It’s sad to see some of those guys go. Some of them are good character guys and good leaders. It’s just one of those things where some guys fit what they want and some don’t. Those guys have to move on. I talked to Griff and Randy and they both know they still have playing time in them. They’re upbeat.
“They’re all great guys and I hate to see them go. At the same time it’s a new era.”
