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Redskins make free agency splash

THE Washington Redskins opened the National Football League free-agent market with a bang on Friday, scooping prized defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth from the Tennessee Titans and re-signing cornerback DeAngelo Hall.

The first day of free agency saw several notable players change teams but none bigger than Haynesworth's move from the Titans to the Redskins in a seven-year deal that according to media reports is worth US$100 million.

The contract, according to the Washington Post, makes Haynesworth, a seven-year NFL veteran who has spent his entire career with the Titans, the highest-paid defensive lineman in the league, topping Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, who has a six-year deal that averages US$12.2 million per season.

"Albert is a difference maker and his physical presence will strengthen our defense," Redskins head coach Jim Zorn said.

The Redskins also solidified their defensive secondary by re-signing Hall to a six-year US$54 million deal.

The two-time Pro Bowler, who started last season with the Oakland Raiders before being signed by Washington, finished with five total interceptions and 73 tackles.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were also busy on the opening day of free agency, obtaining tight end Kellen Winslow from the Cleveland Browns for undisclosed draft picks.

The New England Patriots moved to bolster their running game by signing veteran Fred Taylor, who ranks 16th in the NFL's all-time rushing list with 11,271 yards.

The New York Jets bolstered their defense by signing former Ravens linebacker Bart Scott, reuniting him with new head coach Rex Ryan, who was his defensive coordinator in Baltimore.

Scott, whose agent said the Jets agreed to a six-year deal worth US$48 million, ranked second on the Ravens, the NFL's No. 2 defensive unit, with 104 tackles.

Minnesota Vikings were quick to address some of their quarterbacking needs, acquiring Sage Rosenfels from the Houston Texans for a fourth-round draft pick.

The Titans quarterbacking situation is more settled after Tennessee re-signed Kerry Collins to a two-year deal worth US$15 million.

The 14-year veteran replaced Vince Young in the second game of last season and led the Titans to a league-best record of 13-3.



 

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