ASHBURN, Va. (AP) — Guard Randy Thomas, receiver Antwaan Randle El and kick returner Rock Cartwright are among 10 players cut by the Washington Redskins on the eve of free agency.
Cornerback Fred Smoot, defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin, running back Ladell Betts and quarterback Todd Collins were also released as the Redskins cleared salary cap space in the first major moves under new coach Mike Shanahan.
The Redskins need to get younger after a 4-12 season, and Thursday’s moves point the team in that direction. Seven of the players are at least 30 years old. Also, 32-year-old left tackle Chris Samuels announced his expected retirement due to a neck injury.
The Redskins were also close to re-signing center Casey Rabach, keeping him off the free agent market.