A Few Day Two Tidbits

The Redskins have been doing their due diligence and have finally made their first signing. The Redskins have signed Artis Hicks, formerly of the Minnesota Vikings, ProFootballTalk.com reports:

PFT’s Mike Florio reports that the Redskins and Hicks, who played the last four years for the Vikings, have agreed on a three-year deal.

For the Redskins, the signing of Hicks is the latest reminder that — contrary to the expectations of some — they’re not going hog wild spending Daniel Snyder’s money on big-name free agents in an uncapped year. Coach Mike Shanahan would rather build for the long run by adding solid veterans like Hicks, rather than try to put together an all-star team of high-priced free agents.

This move is one that clearly addresses needs, and the price seems reasonably fair. Jason Reid of Redskins Insider says:

@JReidPost: Hicks’s deal includes about $3 mil in guaranteed money and could be worth as much as $9 mil.

Tony Pachos was originally thought to had a deal done as well.  But instead it was later reported that no deal has been made and than Pachos was on his way to visit the Cleveland Browns. I do not have details on the numbers that were discussed, however I did hear that the asking price for the talent did not match with what was offered.  Did the Skins “lowball” a free agent? Has the world gone bananas?  Chad Clifton was supposedly in Washington to try to manipulate his asking price, and left without a contract.  He then went back to Green Bay to sign with the Packers. A commenter on PFT.com suggested:

PCinOz says:

March 5, 2010 8:06 PM

Redskins offered the $20 over 3 years, Clifton gave the Packers the chance to match it.

Redskins wouldn’t go higher.

So far, we have had three potential linemen come in to discuss deals. One signed, one left to weigh options, and another signed with his original deal.  1 out of 3 isn’t bad, especially when you didn’t overpay for him and you see him as a potential upgrade (Stephan Heyer).

Lined up for Monday, the visits include: Larry Foote, Willie Parker, and Ma’ake Kemoeatu.

Tags: Artis Hicks, Chad Clifton, Larry Foote, Ma'ake Kemoeatu, Stephan Heyer, Tony Paschos, Willie Parker