The Game Plan Players the Redskins are eyeing as free agency opens in the NFL:
The Game Plan Players the Redskins are eyeing as free agency opens in the NFL:
(Stephen Dunn - Getty Images)
TOOLBOX
   Resize
COMMENT
 Discussion Policy
 CLOSE
Comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions. You are fully responsible for the content that you post.
Who's Blogging  |
Priority 1
LB London Fletcher, top;
G Derrick Dockery
The Redskins are very interested in signing the durable Fletcher to bolster a sagging defense. Fletcher has a close relationship with assistant head coach-defense Gregg Williams and could be signed very early in the free agency period. Dockery is coming off his best season and the team would like to maintain continuity on the offensive line, but this market could soar out of control, and some NFL people think Dockery might land close to $12 million guaranteed, which the Redskins might not be inclined to match.
Priority 2
DB Fred Smoot
The Redskins tried but failed to trade for CB Dre Bly, and top CB Shawn Springs could be a June salary cap casualty or traded at some point. Improving depth in the secondary is essential after Carlos Rogers and the departed Kenny Wright and Mike Rumph struggled at cornerback. Smoot is a former Redskins player who remains popular with many players, coaches and management figures and has played in the system. The Redskins are likely to pounce.
Priority 3
CB Nate Clements
Viewed by some as the best overall athlete available in free agency, Clements also has ties to Williams from Buffalo but could end up commanding a $20 million signing bonus. The Redskins do not intend to go that far, but should Clements be unable to make a deal at his first few free agent stops, a contract here would not be out of the question. Few expect him to be on the market for more than a day, however.
Priority 4
Offensive Linemen
and Tight Ends
The Redskins have interest in free agent guard Montrae Holland (New Orleans), sources said, and he mirrors Dockery's body type and run-blocking skills. Washington also needs a tight end to complement Chris Cooley, and sources said Cincinnati's Reggie Kelly has piqued the Redskins' interest. They have negotiated with TE Todd Yoder, who spent the most of 2006 with Washington, as well.
Defensive Ends
The Redskins are dedicated to strengthening an aging defensive line in the draft, particularly with a pass-rushing end, and are not expected to go after Patrick Kerney (Atlanta), the best free agent at his position. However, should the Giants opt to shop Michael Strahan, the Redskins would be in a position to make a play for him, sources said. Of course, the chances of him being traded -- especially to a division rival -- are remote.
-- Jason La Canfora
