Redskins Ponder Fast Willie, Portis in Backfield

Free Agents talk to Redskins

The Washington Redskins played it safe over the weekend, only signing one free agent, offensive lineman Artis Hicks.

Everyone around the league, including the huge fan base here, can't believe Dan Snyder hasn't outbid anyone for one of the free agents who signed big contracts. New General Manager Bruce Allen says Snyder is fine with the wait-and-see approach.

Today running back Willie Parker and linebacker Larry Foote are expected to meet with Redskins brass.

The Skins need to re-stock their backfield after cutting Ladell Betts and Rock Cartwright.

The Steelers free agent nicknamed "Fast Willie" has lost some of his speed and probably is not the answer to back up Clinton Portis. Parker is 29 years old and hasn't rushed for more than 1,000 yards since 2007. Parker averaged 4.0 yards per carry in 2009 but he lost his starting job to Rashard Mendenhall. Parker does not catch the ball out of the backfield, so he's not a great third down back to give Portis a breather.

Linebacker Larry Foote is a perfect guy to sign for the Skins new 3-4 defense. Foote played for the Detroit Lions, but spent a good portion of his career with the Steelers. Pittsburgh's 3-4 defense has been one of the best over the years, and Foote played seven seasons in that system.

As the free agency period continues, don't sleep on the Redskins. Expect Dan Snyder to write plenty of checks this offseason.  Just not the $100 million variety.

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