NFL free agency opens on Friday morning
The latest splash occurred a year ago when the Redskins waited, oh, five hours to lure the biggest name: Albert Haynesworth. Several hours later, former NFL coach Brian Billick again dubbed them the offseason champions.
They will return to their favorite time of the year again at 12:01 a.m. Friday. An uncapped year could provide owner Dan Snyder more incentive to sign players, but the market is worse now with more than 200 players restricted because of the cap situation. That could lead to more trades for restricted players.
Just know that of the signings under Snyder, only four have reached the Pro Bowl (including long snapper Ethan Albright). There’s a new coach, Mike Shanahan, and GM, Bruce Allen, running the show. But Shanahan was aggressive pursuing free agents in Denver.
Here’s a recap of what the Redskins have done over the years. Haynesworth is still too new to judge accurately, though after one year he leans toward a hit.
Hits
Class of 2004 » Only one Pro Bowl resulted from this group, but defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin, linebacker Marcus Washington, corner Shawn Springs and end Phillip Daniels formed a defensive core.
London Fletcher » He has been a steady leader — and player — since signing with Washington in 2007.
Laveranues Coles » He caught 172 passes in two seasons in Washington. But the Redskins traded him back to the New York Jets for Santana Moss. So this signing resulted in giving the Redskins a dependable receiver for the past seven seasons. Both made the Pro Bowl.
Casey Rabach » OK, he gets his share of holding penalties, but center is the most important spot along the line after left tackle. Rabach, signed in 2005, has been consistent.
Misses
Class of 2000 » Redskins fans should know this one by heart: Deion Sanders, Bruce Smith, Mark Carrier and Jeff George. Smith contributed for a few years. The rest? Ugh.
Antwaan Randle El » He has been a decent player but did not deliver what the Redskins needed, which is more dynamic playmaking either from the slot or as a punt returner.
Adam Archuleta » Archuleta received the most money ever paid to a safety and by midseason was no longer starting. He was cut after one year.
Jeremiah Trotter » The Redskins signed him away from Philadelphia. It was a poor fit, and he was cut after two years.