These players would have helped the Redskins. They would have provided what they need to find most this offseason: big receiving targets, a defensive line stud and a pass-rushing outside linebacker.
But don’t get your hopes up. It’s hard to imagine them being available.
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WR Vincent Jackson » At 6-foot-5, he would fit the Redskins’ need for a big target. Never mind that he’s never caught more than 68 passes in a season — nor had more than 1,200 yards — and that he’s had off-field issues. He’s still a talent. But the Chargers are expected to place the franchise tag on him.
DL Haloti Ngata » He can play nose or end and the Redskins happen to need players at both spots. But does anyone really think the Ravens would let a key component of their defense leave? Not a chance. He, too, is expected to be franchised.
OLB LaMarr Woodley » Forget it, he’ll be franchised. Once upon a time Pittsburgh would let linebackers leave because it already had groomed another one (funny how that works, haven’t seen that in these parts). But Woodley is too good, especially on an aging defense.
OLB Tamba Hali » Redskins coaches say they want more pass rush from the linebacker spot opposite Brian Orakpo. Hali recorded 14? sacks for Kansas City this season (and 8? the previous year). But like the others, a franchise tag is likely.
WRs Santonio Holmes and Sidney Rice » The Jets are expected to franchise inside linebacker David Harris, meaning there’s a good chance Holmes will be available. The speculation is the Jets want him back (they also have free agent receiver Braylon Edwards), though a big offer could snag him. Keep in mind that Holmes is one more positive drug test away from a year-long suspension and is described as “very moody.” He’s also a playmaker. As for Rice, if Minnesota doesn’t franchise him (doing so with linebacker Chad Greenway instead), then it could use the transition tag. That would give them the right of first refusal if another team offers him a multi-year deal.
