WASHINGTON -- Just days after agreeing to a blockbuster deal with defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth in an effort to shore up their D, the Washington Redskins released last year's high-profile defensive addition, Jason Taylor.
The team released the defensive end late Monday afternoon after just one season. The Redskins did want Taylor back, but they wanted him on terms to which he would not commit.
The release wasn't about money, but offseason workouts, according to the team. The Redskins wanted to add a clause in the six-time All-Pro's contract requiring him to participate in more of the team's offseason workout programs. He declined and got his release.
Taylor had 3.5 sacks last season. He played much of the season hurt and missed three games.
Redskins head coach Jim Zorn said Monday that Taylor "played hurt, but still gave his best effort to be prepared and play hard every week," the Associated Press reported.
Taylor's family stayed in Miami, where he played 11 seasons before the Redskins traded for him last training camp. Taylor did not want to spend so much time away from his family, ESPN.com reported. The workout clause would have required him to be at the Redskins' training facilities for eight of the 13 weeks of the offseason.
The 34-year-old Taylor would have earned about $8 million from the Redskins this season, the AP reported.
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Taylor's 120.5 career sacks are the most among active NFL players.
