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The Redskins Christmas wish list: Potential free agent additions

By Ken Johannesen

NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 16: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the New Orleans Saints warms up before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 16, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 16: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the New Orleans Saints warms up before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 16, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – SEPTEMBER 16: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the New Orleans Saints warms up before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 16, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – SEPTEMBER 16: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the New Orleans Saints warms up before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 16, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Potential Free Agent Additions

Quarterback

Teddy Bridgewater’s contract expires after this season and he could start from day one. The status of Alex Smith is unknown and no one can speculate on his future at this time. If Smith does make a full comeback, Bridgewater would be an excellent backup and likely wouldn’t break the bank.

Running Back

Tevin Coleman is a solid running back, but he is not a reliable option as a full-time starter or a three-down runner. However, he can supply the Redskins with a good option as a relief back and periodic substitute – if needed.  A running back corps of Derrius Guice, Adrian Peterson (if he returns), Tevin Coleman, and Chris Thompson would be an elite lineup.

Wide Receiver

Ryan Grant was often the target of ridicule from Redskins fans over the years, but he had a very respectable 2017 season with the team. He will be a free agent in 2019 and could be a solid addition to the roster once again. He knows the system and would likely be a reliable fourth receiver option. If Grant is added to the roster again, the Redskins will still need more options at receiver and need to select a franchise receiver in the draft.

Outside Linebacker

Shane Ray seems to have fallen out of favor in Denver. He has the talent and is still young. His level of play can be elite and a change of scenery could be the motivation he needs. A new system might be of benefit to both sides and Ray could be an affordable option at OLB. Even if Preston Smith and Pernell McPhee are re-signed to team friendly contracts, Ray is still a valuable addition.

Each of these four players would be affordable and could have the potential to perform at a high level for the next several seasons. Selecting players from the draft each year is the best strategy for building a strong, consistent team. Adding free agents should be seen as supplementing the roster with good talent and depth. Bridgewater, Coleman, Grant, and Ray should receive attention from the Redskins front office in 2019.

Next. Redskins vs. Titans: Five takeaways from Saturday's loss. dark

Merry Christmas, Redskins fans. I hope you will receive and give nice Redskins gifts this holiday season.

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