Redskins sign LB Robert Thomas to a one year deal

The redskins did acquire a player today for a veteran minimum contract in attempt to fulfill their needs at Linebacker. They sign eight year veteran Robert Thomas to a one year deal according to Jason La Canfora of the Post.

"The Washington Redskins have signed veteran linebacker Robert Thomas to a one-year deal, according to a league source, confirming earlier reports. Thomas is an eight-year pro who missed all but two games last season because of injury. He passed a physical with the Redskins and comes in with a chance to start at strongside linebacker.

With the release of longtime starter Marcus Washington, the Skins are thin at that spot . As they seek reinforcements, they have been dangling primarily one-year, veteran-minimum deals. They also have shown interest in trying to bring Washington back on a short-term, low-salary contract, but he has rebuffed their initial overtures. Since his release, however, he has not commanded much interest on the open market. Of course, drafting a linebacker later this month is a possibility, too.

Thomas (6-0, 235), is a journeyman who entered the NFL in 2002 as a first-round pick out of UCLA by the St. Louis Rams. The Raiders signed him as a free agent in 2006, and he started 10 games in 2007 at outside linebacker. Thomas, 28, has started just 11 games the past three seasons. and has two sacks in his NFL career, both in 2003. He has significant special teams experience."

Well, they are obviously taking a big gamble on Thomas. While he can play at all linebacker positions, he has not been able to stay healthy for all 16 games. He spent most of last season on injured reserve and he finish that season with only two tackles. Then again, it's a one year deal, and the team could easily bring back Marcus Washington for a veteran minimum contract or draft a LB in the 1st round.

Redskins Sign LB Robert Thomas