DETROIT — Scratch the speculation that gifted but grumpy Terrell Owens will be a Washington Redskin in 2006. Just hours after Sports Illustrated’s Peter King posted the idea on the Internet, the Redskins strongly denied they’re pursuing the receiver, whom the Philadelphia Eagles are looking to shop after suspending him for much of 2005.
“We have great respect for T.O.’s ability, but he doesn’t fit in with us,” Redskins vice president of football operations Vinny Cerrato said. “We’re not interested in acquiring him.”
Owens, 32, was chosen for five straight Pro Bowls before becoming a soap opera-like figure last season in Philadelphia. He previously alienated organizations in San Francisco, where he played his first eight seasons, and Baltimore, where the 49ers tried to trade him in 2004 before Owens nixed the deal and demanded to be sent to the Eagles.
Redskins coach Joe Gibbs is a stickler for the team concept, which he showed by trading unhappy leading receiver Laveranues Coles last March. It also would be difficult for Washington, which is far above the projected $95 million salary cap, to meet Owens’ expected contract demands. If Owens disliked playing with Eagles standout quarterback Donovan McNabb, it’s hard to see him wanting to team with aging Redskins passer Mark Brunell or untested youngster Jason Campbell.
Denver, Miami, Dallas and Kansas City reportedly remain in the “Where’s T.O. Going?” discussion, although agent Drew Rosenhaus declined comment. And the Redskins will try to find a receiver to pair with Pro Bowl starter Santana Moss in a less dramatic fashion.
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