Redskins bring back Albright

THE WASHINGTON TIMES

The Redskins ensured some continuity on special teams by re-signing snapper Ethan Albright yesterday.

The 35-year-old signed a one-year, $860,000 deal that included a $40,000 signing bonus. However, Albright’s veteran minimum base salary only counts $435,000 against the salary cap.

The 12-year veteran out of North Carolina has been impeccable since coming to Washington in 2001. Albright, who has worked with numerous holders, punters and kickers during his six seasons with the Redskins, has been with Washington longer than any current player except for offensive tackles Jon Jansen and Chris Samuels.

“I’m thrilled to be back,” Albright said. “This is home for me. I feel great about our unit. It was great to be in the playoffs in 2005, and I’m looking forward to getting back there next season.”

Punter Derrick Frost is a restricted free agent, meaning the Redskins have the right to match any offer he receives. Kicker Shaun Suisham is also unsigned, but as an exclusive rights free agent he can negotiate only with Washington.

Eleven Redskins, including guard Derrick Dockery, linebacker Warrick Holdman and safety Vernon Fox, are set to be unrestricted free agents when the signing period begins March 2.

Meanwhile, quarterback Mark Brunell had surgery on the labrum in his left shoulder yesterday. The team announced Fox (pectoral muscle) and linebackers Marcus Washington (left elbow) and Rocky McIntosh (right knee) had surgeries last week. Defensive end Renaldo Wynn (right elbow) could be operated on as soon as the end of the week.

— David Elfin