This was his choice: leave the wife and kids behind … in warm weather … in Las Vegas … to work out.
That’s not what Redskins defensive tackle Joe Salave’a wants to do. It’s what he felt he must do as the Redskins began their voluntary offseason workouts Monday.
“It works for some and not for others,” said Salave’a, who will stay four days here and three in Vegas. “I’m committed to be here. … Hopefully this is the steppingstone for a good season.”
Not all of his teammates agree on the method of getting ready for the season. But, this offseason, they have a choice, even though attendance was never mandatory. For the first time, Redskins coach Joe Gibbs gave the players freedom to work out where they wanted.
They’re expected to join the team in May for the organized team activities workouts.
“There are quite a few guys doing their own thing,” said quarterback Mark Brunell, one of approximately 45 players who showed up Monday. “This is something that’s been important in all the other seasons I’ve played, so it remains to be seen how important it [really] is. What you do miss out on is just being together. That’s an important aspect of having the team together in March or April.
“What’s important is that guys work out wherever they areand prepare for the season.”
Said defensive end Andre Carter: “It’s just a level of camaraderie and brotherhood.”
Some players receive workout bonuses in their contracts. But others were vocal about the desire to work out elsewhere, notably Phillip Daniels and Santana Moss. Daniels is still rehabilitating after having surgery on both ankles and a wrist. He has worked out in Atlanta in the past and Moss prefers doing his workouts in Miami.
And some players said they were burned out from spending so much time at the facility. Last offseason, because they were installing a new offense, the players also met with their position coaches more frequently.
“Guys aren’t real big on meeting in March or April,” Brunell said. “Last year it was necessary. This year, not as much.”
This year, the workouts will be in smaller groups — players will be with their units — allowing for more personal attention.
“When I got drafted here, I made this my home,” tight end Chris Cooley said. “I’ve had faith in the program and it’s done well for me so I’m happy to do what they want me to do. Why go out and pay for something when you have this opportunity?”
Redskin rumblings
» The Redskins must decide what to do with safety Adam Archuleta, who is due a $5 million bonus by Wednesday if he’s still on the roster. The two sides could opt to push the date back, which they have already done once. Redskins coach Joe Gibbs has said several times this offseason that he plans on Archuleta returning.
» Receiver Santana Moss, running back Clinton Portis, safety Sean Taylor and defensive ends Phillip Daniels and Renaldo Wynn were among the missing from the first day of voluntary workouts. Wynn is in Hawaii for the NFLPA meetings.
