NFL Free Agency usually means one thing: the Washington Redskins make a big splash and spend a lot of cash.
Last year on this day, the Redskins signed defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to a record $100 million deal, including $40 million guaranteed. Oh yeah, the Skins also signed DeAngelo Hall to a huge contract.
This year, with a new management team in place, the Redskins are, shall we say, "waiting patiently."
We know, we know, we can't believe it either, especially since there is no salary cap for this upcoming season. New General Manager Bruce Allen said Thursday night he will be working the phones all night long. So while the big splash might not happen on Day 1 of free-agent signings, don't be surprised if the Redskins make a move over the weekend.
Today the Redskins plan to bring in offensive lineman Chad Clifton. The 11-year veteran plays left tackle, the position the Skins desperately need to fill with the retirement of Chris Samuels. Clifton is looking for about $7 million a year.
If the Redskins sign Clifton, that would mean the team wouldn't necessarily need to pick an offensive lineman with the fourth overall pick in April's NFL Draft. Even if Clifton comes on board, he's no spring chicken, so why not still draft a future lineman who could be the next Samuels?
Let the spending spree begin. If there's no salary cap, you know owner Dan Snyder isn't afraid to overpay for a player. We'll just have to wait and see who is going to take the Redskins money.
