The offseason started a month ago for the Redskins, whose coaches already have taken two weeks vacation. But now that the 2006 season is officially over with Indianapolis dispatching Chicago in Super Bowl XLI, the offseason will intensify.
Here are three upcoming dates that will shape their future:
» The scouting combine. The combine is Feb. 21-27 in Indianapolis, where the Redskins, and every other team, get an up-close look at prospective draft picks. However, some college prospects, especially those who expect to be drafted high, might opt not to perform certain drills. NFL teams also get a chance to interview the players. Also, trainers will check out each player. More than 300 players will participate.
» Free agency. The signing frenzy can begin on March 2, unless a player is cut, then he can sign with a team before free agency starts. The Redskins, as of right now, do not have a lot of money available; in January, they were nearly $3 million over the projected $109 million salary cap for 2007. However, that will change before free agency thanks to players who restructure their contracts. Guard Derrick Dockery remains unsigned and is the Redskins biggest potential free agent.
» The draft. The seven-round draft is April 28-29, but, as of now, the Redskins only have picks in the first, fifth, sixth and seventh rounds. They select sixth overall and most early mock drafts project them taking a defensive lineman, either Clemson end Gaines Adams or Michigan tackle Alan Branch. Only 14 of Washington’s last 42 draft picks were on the roster at the end of this past season.
Sean Taylor added to Pro Bowl roster
Redskins safety Sean Taylor was added to the NFC’s Pro Bowl roster Monday after Brian Dawkins of the Philadelphia Eagles withdrew due to personal reasons.
Taylor was a first alternate when Pro Bowl squads were announced in December. He led the Redskins with 129 tackles and remained popular because of his ability to intimidate receivers with jarring hits.
Taylor joins left tackle Chris Samuels as the Redskins’ representatives to the Pro Bowl, which will be played Saturday in Honolulu. Taylor will be making his first Pro Bowl appearance.
— The Associated Press contributed to this report
