“It’s disappointing,” coach Mike Shanahan said. “I talked to John as he came back for our workouts. I talked to him about there being a number of possibilities. I said I can’t tell you what we’re going to do but if we do make a decision and go in a different direction, I’ll call you as soon as I make that decision.”

Thus ends an odd last year for Beck, who vaulted into prominence a year ago at this time when coach Mike Shanahan effusively praised him after the draft – explaining why he didn’t draft a quarterback. Beck became a mini-celebrity in the spring during players-only workouts  as he talked about his desire to win the starting job.

League sources said the Redskins confidence in Beck was genuine, adding that they thought he’d win the starting job over Grossman. However, Grossman won the starting job out of training camp and kept it for all but three games.

Beck replaced Grossman during an Oct. 16 loss to Philadelphia and fared OK, completing eight of 15 passes for 117 yards. In his first start Beck completed 22 of 37 passes for 279 yards, one touchdown and an interception  vs. Carolina.

However, he struggled mightily in the next two starts – he was sacked a franchise-record 10 times vs. Buffalo in part because he held onto the ball too long – and Grossman returned to the lineup.

Beck exited the season anxious to spend a full offseason with these coaches for the first time, hoping it would improve his play. But now he won’t get that chance.

His release will save the Redskins approximately $1.3 million against the salary cap.

Beck could not be reached for comment.