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The Redskins were not expected to be able re-sign their top free agents this year. They already lost WR Jamison Crowder to the New York Jets yesterday.
Now it's being reported that OLB Preston Smith will be signing with the Green Bay Packers. They also reportedly agreed to deals with OLB Za'Darius Smith and S Adrian Amos today
Were long considered the front runners for him. Redskins never made a push to keep him. knew back in summer time he'd likely leave, seeing where market was headed. Now must replace: Draft? Also have Ryan Anderson; violent edge setter. https://t.co/Y4jOcMNn5S
— John Keim (@john_keim) March 12, 2019
Preston Smith will reportedly get a 4 year deal worth $52 million. He only gets $16 million fully guaranteed at signing.
I'm told free agent LB Preston Smith is going to Green Bay on a 4-year deal worth $52M. $16M fully guaranteed at signing. Smith choices came down to the #Colts and the #Packers, per source.
— ig: josinaanderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 12, 2019
The #Packers are signing LB Preston Smith to a 4-year deal worth a base value of $52M, source said. He gets $16M to sign. He gets $27.5M over the first two years.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 12, 2019
The Redskins will be in the market for an OLB this offseason, and will likely look to this year's draft. Free agent edge rushers get paid, and the Redskins need more homegrown talent and speed at the position. Ryan Kerrigan continues to play at a Pro Bowl level, but Ryan Anderson has yet to really step up as a pass rusher. Washington has been turning to cheap free agents to fill in the rest at OLB.
Blessed beyond measures #GoPackGo
— Preston Smith (@PrestonSmith94) March 12, 2019