Interesting information on Smoot

[Gump84]

While I didn't get this from a professional source or anything like that, I heard from someone who lives in Ashburn, Virginia (near where most of the Skins live) that Smoot has almost no chance of being resigned. Where did this person claim to have heard this news from? Smoot himself. Apparently, Smoot was in a mall near a Redskins store telling fans not to buy his jersey "because it will be on clearance soon". Also, from what I was told, he supposedly feels disrespected by the Redskins, and will turn down nearly any offer they propose.


I love Smoot as much as the next guy and I hope these things aren't true. While I can't tell you with 100% certainty that everything above actually happened/was said, it is what I was told, so I figured I'd share the info.

[akhhorus]

10 million bonus is disrespect...please. Did Snyder kill his dog or something?

[hail2skins]

hope it isn't a rumor.

[Gump84]

Yeah, it doesn't make any sense to me that he would go around saying things like this. Then again, he is Fred Smoot and he does have the world's biggest mouth, so maybe he would do something like this.

[CNYSkinFan]

Champ "Iago" Bailey strikes again. Leading his Roderigo (Smoot) along like a puppet to try and kill Cassio (Gibbs" to get at Othello (Snyder).

Ok I have officially taken this too far.

[Taylor_36]

If all that is true, thats pretty sad to hear Smoot talking like that. First he not Ty Law and is not a top 5 corner, hes a good corner but not top 5. Im guessing if he was a top 5 corner, been to 3 or 4 pro bowls the Skins would pay him what hes asking for, am i right?

[akhhorus]

Champ "Iago" Bailey strikes again. Leading his Roderigo (Smoot) along like a puppet to try and kill Cassio (Gibbs" to get at Othello (Snyder).

Ok I have officially taken this too far.

your words and performances are no kin together.

[BandWagon]

There's probably a little artistic license in the story, but I wouldn't doubt there's a grain of truth running through it. As much as I've disliked the way we've handled free agents in the past (both incoming and outgoing) I like this new "tough love" approach. "Hey he is one of our core guys...he's a real Redskin...but if he holds us hostage and prevents us from addressing other needs then let me be the first to hold the door for ya while you catch a cab."

This is exactly the type of approach that's been needed around here for a LONG time. It's going to be painful for awhile...change always is, but I can smell a winner around the corner...can you?

[Taylor_36]

Wasnt the Redskins offer to Smoot a contract that would make hime one of the 10 highest paid corners in the league??

[Redskin006]

this saddens me to hear this. but, im not surprised. when i went to the san francisco game, i asked him to come over to me about ten times to just say hi and he wouldnt. he seemed really disconnected with the fans and seemed like he didnt care. i dont know if it was just me feeling that way, but it seemed like he didnt care too much about the fans. hes a good corner, not great and doenst deserve the money of a great player.

[swheeler]

Even before hearing this I was not exactly optimistic about Smoot. A good system makes players feel like they're worth more than they really are. I would love to Smoot back, but we have other much more serious issues. I'd be surprised to see him resigned unless other teams won'tpay him what he wants either (and coming back on those terms wouldn't help team chemistry)

[Dexter72]

But But But...Isn't he a 'True Redskin' and willing to take a lot less to stay here???

[Skins.Fan]

I actually put a little stock into what the original rumor says, especially since it is Smoot we're talking about. He did, after all, once say about then-Vanderbilt TE Todd Yoder, 'I'll let him catch a pass if he'll do my homework.' Smoot is, well, colorful verbally, so this isn't beyond the realm of possibility.

However, I have had a feeling that we might get him back once free agency has started. Insomuch as we don't want to give him a $15 million SB, his value around the league is not cemented, so he may not find a suitor willing to part with that high a coin once he hits the open market. If that proves to be the case, then the money we're offering is not alot different from what he's seeing elsewhere, and I kind of like our chances when everything is financialy equal.

Just a thought, though....

[frenchskinsfan]

No more "Smooooooot" yelling at Fedexfield. Is it really a bad thing ?

Seriously, if the guy isn't a top 5 CB, he's been very valuable to this team, and he's shown dedication and pride in his play.

Well, now, he's a pro, he's got an agent, he's doing his business. Why would he lie to people, saying smthing like "Keep paying for n° 21 jerseys ! I'm a true Redskin, I'd rather get underpaid to stay here !" ?

No, He says the truth, "there's almost no possibility for an agreement, so I'll certainly be elsewhere next year. That's it, that's all."

[skins111111]

We love you Fred, but you gotta play fair......"ASK NOT WHAT THE REDSKINS CAN DO FOR YOU BUT WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR THE REDSKINS" don't leave just before the miricle happens.............but if you must don't let the door hit your A$$ on the way out.

[joethefan]

This is very interesting, knowing smoots mouth, I believe what was said....And if smoot is that hurt by us not making him a top 5 corner..then the damage is already done and even if he stays here, he will always have that feeling of betrayal......so now he almost has to go because he could become a cancer to the team.

[smoak]

I'm going to disagree with everyone who keeps blaming Champ for every story we hear about Smoot wanting to leave. Yes, they're reportedly close friends who talk every day but I have friends I talk to every day and I'll be damned if I'd let them make decisions for me. Smoot is a man and if it comes out that he officially didn't want to be a Redskins then I hold him responsible. I'm at the point where I wish he was gone just to be done with it. Champ is not going to be the cause of every bad thing that happens to this organization. Sure his true colors turned out to be green rather than burgundy and gold, but guess what? We're better off without and we'll be better off without Smoot if the rumors we've been hearing are true.

[dogfight6]

Bye bye Smootie you are about to find out your not as valuable as you think you are.

[PennSkinsFan]

This was a given already. I think we all know that the chances fo smoot being resigned are probably close to 0% . Gibbs has stated that in different wording just by readuing through the lines of his comments. Gibbs has stated several times when asked abotu smoot that they would love to resign Smoot, but they won't break the bank and have the rest of the team suffer. Meaning.....bye bye smoot, your demands are too high. I think we are all realists here and understand that Fred Smoot will not wear the Redskins #21 next year.

[DallasSux]

I dont belive that rumor. i do think bailey is telling him to do stuff. i think smoot is a top 10 corner in the league and i hope we can get him back. Gibbs said players are waiting till the free agency starts to sign contracts. Smoot is a great leader and a player and the skins need him.

[dj_stouty]

I think the cornerback position may begin to rival the wide receiver position for most egotistical position in football.

For some reason, cornerbacks always think they are better than they really are. And with the 5-yard enforcement rule in full effect, their value to teams has dimished this year. Ask McAllister, Bailey and Woodson...who all got beat like drums this year and were publically scrutinized because of it.

I love Smoot...but his head is too far into the clouds right now. Too far, I believe, for him to come down.

Another #21 leaves the Skins....

[RedskinsDave]

Maybe Bailey will tell Smoot to get hyped as the best in the game like he was and then leave and get burnt every time on national tv and yet still have people call you the best. Smoot should take the money we offered because he won't get more from another team.

[Cruising270]

man this is really starting to get to me now that it's looking more and more obvious Smoot will not be here next year.

I have to admit although I spoke of senerio's of what to do if we loose him, I never thought it wasn't going to happen. It just seems so far fetch to see Smoot in another teams Jersey. Now with stories like this as well as us being pressed against the cap without a Samuels renagotiation the reality is starting to sink in and it makes me sick. I really love the guy, not only did he always give it everything he had in games but he was always fun to watch before the snap. After every tackle or play he'd make the "SMOOOOOOOOOT" chant from the crowd always followed.

If we were nowhere near the cap then I'd say give him all the money in the world.....but unfortunitly that isn't the case. Smoot has to know this despite what his agent says. I want to make the most money I can at my job too so I can't blame Smoot, but if can make whats more than fair for what I do and work somewhere I like, then I'd do it!

I hope Smoot returns........

[guinness4health]

how is a 10 million dollar bonus disrespectful?????, to be paid as one of the ton ten cornerbacks in the league, that is disrespectful????

get it in your head smoot you do not deserve a 14 million dollar signing bonus!

[whitskins]

Smoot might think the money we offered him is disrespectful, but I'm curious to see how much "respect" he gets from all the other teams in the league. It might not just be the Redskins that don't think Smoot is an elite player in this league.

[tommahawk]

If Smoot would rather be in KC or San Diego then he needs to go. We gave him a very fair offer only to have him shun it. He wants to test the market and see what he gets. Then go to the place where he sees the biggest dollar signs. I think we'll be playing against both Roland and Fred next year, and it's the best thing for our team.

[Sweepea436]

While I like Smoot, I think he's a good player.....I'm glad to see this move. For once, we aren't shoveling cash at a player just because he asked for it. If Smoot really "loved to be a Redskin" he'd have signed our deal. The whole "disrespect" game these overpayed chowderheads always play is a cop out. It shows his true colors. Out for the buck like 90% of the players in the league. If you want my opinion it's disrespectful scoffing at the 10 million dollars that we (the fans) help put up. Let him go. Greg Williams will make sure our D clicks without him.

[BIGSEF3]

[QUOTE=Cruising270]man this is really starting to get to me now that it's looking more and more obvious Smoot will not be here next year.

After every tackle or play he'd make the "SMOOOOOOOOOT" chant from the crowd always followed. QUOTE]

thanks to sean taylor, everyone can now chant "SWOOOOOOOOOP" instead.

[Redskinmayhem]

I had a bad feeling smoot wouldn't return after all the talk about champ being in his ear. I've dealt with that and am ready to move. My worry now is what will be done to replce him. Harris is not that big of a drop from Smoot in terms of talen and ability. In terms of heart, yes, it's a big drop. I'm just worried about what the future holds for the #2 CB spot on this team.

[BIGSEF3]

no one can "replace" a guy like smoot.

but last year, who thought lemar marshall could fill in for arrington and we wouldnt be screwed? who thought pierce could fill in for barrow and play BETTER? who thought our D-line would be as rock solid as it was? who thought springs could replace bailey and play so well?

if smoot goes, greg williams will see to it we dont miss him, on the field. his replacement wont be smoot, but his replacement will make us forget smoot, as quickly as we forgot champ bailey.

[Spence]

But But But...Isn't he a 'True Redskin' and willing to take a lot less to stay here???Amen! I have no idea if this rumor is true, but none of you can say you weren't warned. I went over all this with--it seems like--the entire site last year when so many were convinced Smoot would never leave D.C. because he's the good guy Champ is not.

I warned you.

[Spence]

Yeah, can we drop this stupid Champ angle. Smoot is a grown man. He makes his own decisions. If he were taking a below-market value offer to go to Denver, this Champ angle might make some sense. But Smoot isn't going to do that. Smoot is going to take the offer that includes the most money. Just like almost every other free agent out there.

Or should we believe that the entire free agent market is being manipulated by Champ Bailey?

[Spence]

Smoot should take the money we offered because he won't get more from another team.Oh, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Smoot gets a better offer. Teams are always giving huge money to #2 wideouts or #2 cornerbacks in the hope that they'll turn into a number one once a signature is attached to the fat contract. Almost never works. [Remember Alvin Harper? Ouch!] Don't be at all surprised if some team [or teams] make[s] what we would consider a drunken sailor bid for Smoot's services. It happens every year.

[dj_stouty]

Remember Alvin Harper? Ouch!

Yeah...That guy could JUMP~! ;)

[chrisbcbu]

I think everyone saw this coming. A #2 corner should get paid like a #2 not a #1. We love ya Smoot but for that money you can go somewhere else.

I to like that we arent overpaying our players now(Except Brunell). This new tough love could lose us some players that should stay but in the long run should be beneficial to the team.

[akhhorus]

Oh, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Smoot gets a better offer. Teams are always giving huge money to #2 wideouts or #2 cornerbacks in the hope that they'll turn into a number one once a signature is attached to the fat contract. Almost never works. [Remember Alvin Harper? Ouch!] Don't be at all surprised if some team [or teams] make[s] what we would consider a drunken sailor bid for Smoot's services. It happens every year.

Why do you think Arizona is still in the NFL? Just to hand out big contracts to #2 players.

[techskinsfan]

look...to me if he leaves its just part of the business...i loved the guy while he was here and ill prolly take notice of his games and such when hes gone...but...if he signs with dallas or balt or nyg...many have said it...but yea smooty dont let the door hit u on ur hind side on the way out jerk...cuz then all that talk about hating dallas was a bunch of horse do

[Spence]

I think everyone saw this coming. A #2 corner should get paid like a #2 not a #1. We love ya Smoot but for that money you can go somewhere else.Actually, almost no one at this site saw it coming, despite warnings. I recall PennSkinsFan and myself making this point about Smoot repeatedly. I don't recall too many people agreeing with us, though.

[dj_stouty]

Actually, almost no one at this site saw it coming, despite warnings. I recall PennSkinsFan and myself making this point about Smoot repeatedly. I don't recall too many people agreeing with us, though.

You guys definitely had a point back in 2003. However, no one knew then that Smoot would have the kind of year like he did in 2004. He really stepped up his game...and has now asked for money over his value. Had he performed in '04 like he had the last 3 years, the Skins wouldn't be in this situation.

[lightskin]

:cry:

[IVSkinsFan]

Let him go. He didn't make our defense what it was, it was everyone. Someone else will step in and we want miss a beat.

[ConradCountry]

Just tell him that we took 2 million dollars off hi bonus for every 4th down Keyshawn JOhnson burnt him on.

[dj_stouty]

Just tell him that we took 2 million dollars off hi bonus for every 4th down Keyshawn JOhnson burnt him on.

At that rate, he would start OWING the Redskins money. *Zing~!*

[MoeRedskins]

I still think Smoot isn't going anywhere. As it stands right now, Smoot is going to go elsewhere for more money, Pierce is going to test the market, and Samuels hasn't restructed his contract yet. All of this with about two weeks until FA. As it stands right now as I post this the Redskins are screwed going into next year on a lot of levels. Then, deals get made.

[Spence]

Had he performed in '04 like he had the last 3 years, the Skins wouldn't be in this situation.And what's another thing I've written many times? Be wary of players who suddenly become stars in their contract years.

[The Skinsinator]

Like a lot of people around here, I like how we said here is offer or not, accept it or leave. Hypothetically speaking, if no other team beats our offer & Smoot says "ok, well I guess I will be a Redskin & play for less money than I deserve cause I can't get anymore money anywhere else." This is an honest question:

Can Washington not resign Fred at the orginal offer because of his decision to reject an extremely fair offer?

If these players wanna play hard ball with us, let's bring right back at him. I'm sick of the selfishness of this game. I'm sure Williams is getting his replacement ready to go & we shouldn't look back now.

[CNYSkinFan]

Like a lot of people around here, I like how we said here is offer or not, accept it or leave. Hypothetically speaking, if no other team beats our offer & Smoot says "ok, well I guess I will be a Redskin & play for less money than I deserve cause I can't get anymore money anywhere else." This is an honest question:

Can Washington not resign Fred at the orginal offer because of his decision to reject an extremely fair offer?

If these players wanna play hard ball with us, let's bring right back at him. I'm sick of the selfishness of this game. I'm sure Williams is getting his replacement ready to go & we shouldn't look back now.

Sure the problem is that the redskins can not wait for him to actually negotiate with other teams and then hope he comes back around. IF I am the FO I am signing the best available CB first day of FA, this is why I am thinking Smoot is making a HUGE mistake

[Meatsnack]

But But But...Isn't he a 'True Redskin' and willing to take a lot less to stay here???

Your avatar is really, really good. Heh, heh, heh, Yes! Good for me to poop on!

:)

[jporterweb]

Snyder put this team in this position. But overpaying for players, players like Smoot say well if you are going to overpay Chad Morton you HAVE to overpay me. So I'm going to hold you hostage. If you don't pay me what I want, I'll go somewhere else and screw you later.

[bwparker]

I'd just like to point out that the RUMOR said that he felt disrespected by the Redskins...not by their offer. Alot of people assume that he feels the contract was disrespectful. Isn't it possible that he feels they disrespected him in some other way(behind the scenes?)? Just a thought.

[The Skinsinator]

Sure the problem is that the redskins can not wait for him to actually negotiate with other teams and then hope he comes back around. IF I am the FO I am signing the best available CB first day of FA, this is why I am thinking Smoot is making a HUGE mistake

Good point. Who are the other really good cbs in the FA market this year? From what I've seen, I feel Garnell Wilds can develop into a competent starting cb soon, maybe my mid season. Keep in mind, he lined up across field from Deangelo Hall, the stud from VT & now on the Falcons. He had to have some type of positive influence on Garnell. Garnell also should get a look at the starting role because of his hair. That could help in pass coverage.

[PennSkinsFan]

The problem with the overpaying is we are now in a position after overpaying the lats few season that we do not have the room to overpay anyone.

[Skinzaholic]

The problem with the overpaying is we are now in a position after overpaying the lats few season that we do not have the room to overpay anyone.

This may be a blessing in disguise.

[LATrueRedskin]

Bye, bye Freddy boy. With everything new I hear about you, I start to like you less.




















Don't let the door hit you on the ass on the way out.

[Jero]

I'd just like to point out that the RUMOR said that he felt disrespected by the Redskins...not by their offer. Alot of people assume that he feels the contract was disrespectful. Isn't it possible that he feels they disrespected him in some other way(behind the scenes?)? Just a thought.

What could've possibly happened to make Smoot think he was disresepcted other than the contract offer? Which, BTW, is ridiculous-some 2nd tier, yes, 2ND TIER cornerback is going to complain about millions more than he really deserves being thrown his way? Puh-leeze. I also find it in poor taste him telling fans at the Redskins Store not to buy his jersey because it would be "going on clearance soon". Who does that? I think he wants to go, but maybe he's going to try and turn it around to make the Redskins look bad. It ain't gonna work, and some of the things he's saying and doing make him seem to be setting himself up to skip town. I'm starting to hear Ray Charles in my head: "Hit the road, Smoot, and dontcha come back no more, no more, no more, no more..."

[silverspring]

Snyder put this team in this position. But overpaying for players, players like Smoot say well if you are going to overpay Chad Morton you HAVE to overpay me. So I'm going to hold you hostage. If you don't pay me what I want, I'll go somewhere else and screw you later.

this is an interesting point. snyder has definitely created an atmosphere of money ever since he came. Nonetheless smoot is just plain wrong and i truly don't think another team is foolish enough to give a little, constantly injured, not quite speedy cb with a big heart that much money.

Part of me says f* smoot, he isn't that good and he needs to deflate his head. But then again how can you blame these guys for losing touch with reality, smoot, for instance, is an average sized 25 year old guy and he is making millions playing a game. Let me repeat that, "making millions playing a game". I don't care what you say it is hard to keep track of reality when you don't live in it. Some players are able to do that, and one might regard them as special, or "core redskins", but lets be honest how can you not get caught up into it. These guys start by being the cool kids playing ball in highchool, then they are the superstars in college and then one day if they are good enough eventually they have a bunch of obsessed fans spending their time writing about them on the internet all day, even in the offseason. Hard to keep perspective even for the ones with good hearts.

[BIGSEF3]

i made the same point a while back. if you are a redskin, you want a piece of the pie that snyder has given everyone else.

[portis2endzone]

smoot is gone end of story.

[IMALILTEAPOT]

people are now just tryin to find things to diss him. I hate it how we hate everybody that leaves us through free agency

[The Skinsinator]

people are now just tryin to find things to diss him. I hate it how we hate everybody that leaves us through free agency

I don't think anybody will hate Fred if he leaves & none of us should put too much stock in these initial comments as they may or may not be true. However, we are looking to turn our team around to a Super Bowl contender. We need continuity & players that are interested in staying here to achieve that goal rather than solely fatten their already fat pockets. It is extremely frustrating to offer someone what they are worth & have them say nope, not enough. Champ claims he only wanted to win more games. Well, he won a few more, but they sure as hell didn't come close to the Super Bowl. I love how they got lit for 47 points against Peyton. Anyway, I support anyone interested in being on this football team. Look what Jansen & Wynn did of late. Extremely respectable. Smoot, up to this point, feels this isn't enough. I don't think any of us hate/will hate him, just thought he would be interested in hanging around to play for the 3rd best defense under a Hall of Fame coach with 3 Super Bowl rings. Guess not. If you are playing on an opposing team, as he more than likely will, he is a roadblock for our ultimate goal. We want people who want to stay here with our team & Joe Gibbs and win him his 4th super bowl. I hope Smoot wakes up and smells the coffee real quick because he has a great thing in front of him.


HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!!!!

[Keino]

If this is true, I say good riddance. You've had one good year here Smooty. Im not sure what the fan infatuation with you is all about anyways. You get burnt by the leagues better WR's. Im so glad I won't have to hear the PA announcer say "Tackle by Fred Smoooooooooooooooooooooot" after you give up a 1st down on 3rd and Long.

Good luck finding that $$$ you seek on the open market. No way do you deserve more money than Shawn Springs. IN fact, he should be insulted that you were offered similar money as his resume far exceeds your own. In conclusion, I'd like to say...Peace Out Mouth. Maybe one day your play will actually equal your trashtalking ability.

[akhhorus]

If this is true, I say good riddance. You've had one good year here Smooty. Im not sure what the fan infatuation with you is all about anyways. You get burnt by the leagues better WR's. Im so glad I won't have to hear the PA announcer say "Tackle by Fred Smoooooooooooooooooooooot" after you give up a 1st down on 3rd and Long.

Good luck finding that $$$ you seek on the open market. No way do you deserve more money than Shawn Springs. IN fact, he should be insulted that you were offered similar money as his resume far exceeds your own. In conclusion, I'd like to say...Peace Out Mouth. Maybe one day your play will actually equal your trashtalking ability.

Yeah, I heard Smoot's name way too many times. CBs are like Olinemen and plumbing; you dont want to hear about it.

[jrock]

Garnell also should get a look at the starting role because of his hair. That could help in pass coverage.

:lol1:

Haha good point

[BurgundyNGold]

people are now just tryin to find things to diss him. I hate it how we hate everybody that leaves us through free agency
I don't think that's true... at least not for all of us. Everybody loved Champ until he made it abundantly clear that he wouldn't sign any amount of $$$ to stay here. At that point, he ceased to be a Redskin and it was open season.

His whole career, Smoot has bee 60% talk and 40% walk. That is, until last season, where he did play close to his potential. But even then, after Champ and his big shadow had left for Denver, Smoot wasn't even the best CB on his own team!

Let's not kid ourselves, he would be the #1 CB on some teams... say teams with abismal CBs like the Chiefs or the Jets, for example. So, if they want to overpay for him to the tune of an $18M SB -- and I don't think anybody will -- then good for Smoot. We can't afford to.

Smoot is maybe, MAYBE the 20th or 25th best CB in the league, if you're the generous type. So, that's what he's worth, and we offered him more than that. I'm not sure of the exact numbers, but I'm pretty sure he would've been at least in the top 15 paid folks at his position. So, from the point when Smooty rejected that generous offer forward, it's wasn't about getting paid well and being fair to the team and the community. From that point on, it was about $$$ and Smoot's insurmountable ego gap. This is the gap between what Smoot thinks he is (a top corner in the league) and what Smoot actually is (a very good #2 corner or a subpar #1 CB). From that point on, Smoot failed to be a Redskin.

So, if fans recognize that he's not a Redskin anymore and as such fail to make the same allowances for his mouth or his ego, so be it. Just once, I'd like to see economics trounce ego for a guy who deserves it.

[bgforever]

Yeah Smoot bit whatever was whispered in his ear, and overnight, WE don't like him? No its like this Smoot, you feel you can't show your face to us anymore, MAYBE because you thought Danny was goin' to pony up more dough to you. Wish you well whether you get your fat contract or don't, but to say immediately to fans not to buy your jersey, c'mon, stop whining!

[gibbsisgod]

We love you Fred, but you gotta play fair......"ASK NOT WHAT THE REDSKINS CAN DO FOR YOU BUT WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR THE REDSKINS" don't leave just before the miricle happens.............but if you must don't let the door hit your A$$ on the way out.
/\
'
'
'
' this is a great quote

[2Cooley]

I don't think that's true... at least not for all of us. Everybody loved Champ until he made it abundantly clear that he wouldn't sign any amount of $$$ to stay here. At that point, he ceased to be a Redskin and it was open season.

His whole career, Smoot has bee 60% talk and 40% walk. That is, until last season, where he did play close to his potential. But even then, after Champ and his big shadow had left for Denver, Smoot wasn't even the best CB on his own team!

Let's not kid ourselves, he would be the #1 CB on some teams... say teams with abismal CBs like the Chiefs or the Jets, for example. So, if they want to overpay for him to the tune of an $18M SB -- and I don't think anybody will -- then good for Smoot. We can't afford to.

Smoot is maybe, MAYBE the 20th or 25th best CB in the league, if you're the generous type. So, that's what he's worth, and we offered him more than that. I'm not sure of the exact numbers, but I'm pretty sure he would've been at least in the top 15 paid folks at his position. So, from the point when Smooty rejected that generous offer forward, it's wasn't about getting paid well and being fair to the team and the community. From that point on, it was about $$$ and Smoot's insurmountable ego gap. This is the gap between what Smoot thinks he is (a top corner in the league) and what Smoot actually is (a very good #2 corner or a subpar #1 CB). From that point on, Smoot failed to be a Redskin.

So, if fans recognize that he's not a Redskin anymore and as such fail to make the same allowances for his mouth or his ego, so be it. Just once, I'd like to see economics trounce ego for a guy who deserves it.


so you can name 20 corners better than smoot?

[whitskins]

so you can name 20 corners better than smoot?

I agree, 2Cooley, it's pretty funny that when Pro Bowl voting came out we were all screaming that Smoot was one of many Redskins who were ROBBED, and now he's not that good anymore.

Smoot wants to be paid like a #1, good for him, he probably can be a #1 on several teams. We can't pay him like one b/c our #1 is clearly Springs, it doesn't make sense for us financially. Then Smoot has a decision to make, does he search for the bigger paycheck (and MUCH bigger responsibility) to be a #1 CB, which he's never had to be with us, or does he take the 10 mil SB and stay a Redskin.

All we know is that at least right now, Smoot wants to test himself on the market. That's his right. The comments we're judging him on now are completely unsubstantiated mall gossip, it's not like he's out talking trash in the papers on our team like Bailey. Let's cut Smoot some slack, if he thinks he's worth more and he's that good, let him go out and prove it, it will be sad for us, but that's his choice. Let's just see what happens first.

[redskin_rich]

Smoot wants to be paid like a #1, good for him, he probably can be a #1 on several teams. We can't pay him like one b/c our #1 is clearly Springs, it doesn't make sense for us financially. Then Smoot has a decision to make, does he search for the bigger paycheck (and MUCH bigger responsibility) to be a #1 CB, which he's never had to be with us, or does he take the 10 mil SB and stay a Redskin.

One thing, supposedly the offer to Smoot was higher than Springs deal.

[BigPlayJay]

Smoot is certainly a good corner and a good leader I think, but I think the whole Jeremiah Trotter fiasco should teach us how to handle good players who think they are worth more than the team does.........

See ya!
Maybe we will meet again if your big money bubble bursts.

I like Smoot but,paying him any more than we payed Springs would be a mistake.

[garedskin]

Well if 10 Million SB is to low for him then I will say goodbye right now.We will get a 2nd RD pick from whom ever signs him.He is a resticted FA and Snyder/Gibbs did the right thing by not tagging him.The draft is loaded this year with CBs,and we still have Walt Harris to help bring along any Rookie if needed.He feels disrespected, Hell us fans feel ripped off.He wants all the money so the team can win 6-7 games and stay home come playoff time again.I thought he would have learned some humilaty from Darrell Green.He stayed 7 years here when he would have made more money anywhere else in the league.Green was no idiot he made very good money here,but he had loyalty to the team that drafted him.Smoot forgets that the skins took a big gamble on him when he came out of college.There was reports of drug/character issues with him.Smoot and Bailey owe alot to DG.He taught both of them how to play CB in this league.Just wish they would have learned about true loyalty to your team/fans, not to a check with more zeros than any one man deserves. :Peace:

[skins111111]

so if the Fish go with Poole and drop Patrick Surtain what will he be asking and would he be a decent replacement for Smoot? I think he's 28
PATRICK SURTAIN CAREER PRO BOWL SELECTIONS: 2 (2002, 2003)

2004 - Has 71 tackles, is tied the Dolphin team lead with four interceptions and has one sack and two fumble recoveries this season ... Ranked tied for 12th in the AFC in interceptions ... Started 15 times and was inactive once, on Sept. 19th at Cincinnati due to a groin injury ... Has led the team in tackles once this season ... Has one game of double figure tackles.

[skins111111]

2005 NFL Mock Draft
Last Updated February 17, 2005
The Dolphins will be trading Patrick Surtain before March 2, barring a very unexpected turn of events. Word from inside Miami camp is that management believes that Will Poole and Reggie Howard can fill Surtain's CB spot opposite Sam Madison just fine. Look for the Colts or Cowboys to be the most likely suitors for Surtain.

http://www.draftking.com/nfl/2005/mockdraft.shtml

[chrisbcbu]

Well if 10 Million SB is to low for him then I will say goodbye right now.We will get a 2nd RD pick from whom ever signs him.He is a resticted FA and Snyder/Gibbs did the right thing by not tagging him.The draft is loaded this year with CBs,and we still have Walt Harris to help bring along any Rookie if needed.

Not sure what you are talking about. Smoot is an Unrestricted FA, in other words we get nothing for him. Once Mar 2nd comes, he will be able to sign with any team without compensation to the Redskins.

[BurgundyNGold]

so you can name 20 corners better than smoot?

Ty Law, NE
Champ Bailey, DEN
Shawn Springs, WAS
Terence Newman, DAL
Lito Sheppard, PHI
DeAngelo HAll, ATL
Tory James, CIN
Nate Clements, BUF
Antoine Winfield, MIN
Ronde Barber, TB
Dre Bly, DET
Patrick Surtain, MIA
Quentin Jammer, SD
Chris Gamble, CAR
Al Harris, GB
Ashley Ambrose, NO

That's not quite 20, but to take us over the top, here are 3 teams where I would take either CB over Smoot:

Chris McAlister, Gary Baxter, BAL
Charles Woodson, Phillip Buchannon, OAK
Dunta Robinson, Aaron Glenn, HOU (yes, Glenn is old but he's still better than Smoot)

The worst part of this list is that I'm sure that I'm missing somebody. Plus, this doesn't include the draft where Adam Jones, Antrelle Rolle and Carlos Rodgers will probably end up better than Smoot.

The point I am trying to make is that Smoot is not what he thinks he is. I'm glad he's on our team, but I would moreso if any of these guys were on our team.

[LadyNRedskinsfan]

Ty Law, NE
Champ Bailey, DEN
Shawn Springs, WAS
Terence Newman, DAL
Lito Sheppard, PHI
DeAngelo HAll, ATL
Tory James, CIN
Nate Clements, BUF
Antoine Winfield, MIN
Ronde Barber, TB
Dre Bly, DET
Patrick Surtain, MIA
Quentin Jammer, SD
Chris Gamble, CAR
Al Harris, GB
Ashley Ambrose, NO

That's not quite 20, but to take us over the top, here are 3 teams where I would take either CB over Smoot:

Chris McAlister, Gary Baxter, BAL
Charles Woodson, Phillip Buchannon, OAK
Dunta Robinson, Aaron Glenn, HOU (yes, Glenn is old but he's still better than Smoot)

The worst part of this list is that I'm sure that I'm missing somebody. Plus, this doesn't include the draft where Adam Jones, Antrelle Rolle and Carlos Rodgers will probably end up better than Smoot.

The point I am trying to make is that Smoot is not what he thinks he is. I'm glad he's on our team, but I would moreso if any of these guys were on our team.
the guys i put in bold are ones that i think smoot is better than. the rest are arguable. the ones i underlined are on the same level and the ones left are alone are better, IMO.......

i keep hearing gary baxter's name getting thrown around as a top corner and i dont know why the guy should be a safety for crying out loud!

[colkurtz]

The lessons of teams like NE and Philly is that they pay good prices for good/excellent play. If you think you can do better, you're shown the door. What's really amazing about this "tough love" is that players like Trottier and Douglas, leave and then come back years later.

Tough love means offering good money and a chance for the future. But players want more and can leave in FA. Smoot appears to be the first to go to greener pastures.

Goodbye.

[BurgundyNGold]

the guys i put in bold are ones that i think smoot is better than. the rest are arguable. the ones i underlined are on the same level and the ones left are alone are better, IMO.......

i keep hearing gary baxter's name getting thrown around as a top corner and i dont know why the guy should be a safety for crying out loud!
Sheppard made the Pro Bowl. So did Bly and Tory James. Smooty hasn't even been close. Chris Gamle had 7 INTs as a rookie and Quentin Jammer is quietly becoming another Champ. Smoot? 3 on the other side of Springs.

I guess it comes down to opinion, Lady and your points are just as valid. 2Cooley asked me if I thought there were 20 corners that are better than Smoot, so I provided 20+ that I felt I could justify were better than Smoot now or that had a better upside.

[LadyNRedskinsfan]

Sheppard made the Pro Bowl. So did Bly and Tory James. Smooty hasn't even been close. Chris Gamle had 7 INTs as a rookie and Quentin Jammer is quietly becoming another Champ. Smoot? 3 on the other side of Springs.

I guess it comes down to opinion, Lady and your points are just as valid. 2Cooley asked me if I thought there were 20 corners that are better than Smoot, so I provided 20+ that I felt I could justify were better than Smoot now or that had a better upside.
if you are looking at INTs, than yeah smoot isnt in the top 20. if that was the case, people wouldnt consider bailey the best corner in the league because he only had 3 INTs as well. i just dont judge a CB based on how many INTs they have, because its not all about stats. you are right, its comes down to opinion..... and IMO, smoot shouldve been in the pro bowl over dre bly.

[War Hogg]

Ty Law, NE
Champ Bailey, DEN
Shawn Springs, WAS
Terence Newman, DAL
Lito Sheppard, PHI
DeAngelo HAll, ATL
Tory James, CIN
Nate Clements, BUF
Antoine Winfield, MIN
Ronde Barber, TB
Dre Bly, DET
Patrick Surtain, MIA
Quentin Jammer, SD
Chris Gamble, CAR
Al Harris, GB
Ashley Ambrose, NO

That's not quite 20, but to take us over the top, here are 3 teams where I would take either CB over Smoot:

Chris McAlister, Gary Baxter, BAL
Charles Woodson, Phillip Buchannon, OAK
Dunta Robinson, Aaron Glenn, HOU (yes, Glenn is old but he's still better than Smoot)

The worst part of this list is that I'm sure that I'm missing somebody. Plus, this doesn't include the draft where Adam Jones, Antrelle Rolle and Carlos Rodgers will probably end up better than Smoot.

The point I am trying to make is that Smoot is not what he thinks he is. I'm glad he's on our team, but I would moreso if any of these guys were on our team.

You forgot a couple...RW Mcquarters, Deion, and Sam Madison.....Ill think of some more soon!

[jrock]

Ahmed Plummer is another one you can put on that list imo.

[whitskins]

You forgot a couple...RW Mcquarters, Deion, and Sam Madison.....Ill think of some more soon!

This is sarcastic right? Otherwise the anti-Smoot sentiment has gone too far. I know we're pissed that he doesn't look like he's coming back but let's stop kidding ourselves.

[IMALILTEAPOT]

Oh my god has this thread gone mad?????? Half of the people of that list is not at all better than smoot. Why is everyone hating on him? He hardly ever gave up tds, he made big picks at critical times, and at his small size, he improved his tackiling a lot. All u guys are doing rite now are just saying random cornerbacks. You guys just know their names, u dont actually KNOW if they are better than smoot. and I believe that smoot led the skins in picks all his seasons here except this year rite? He's had like 5 picks every season or soemthing. You guys are being silly rite now

[techskinsfan]

wow this has gone wayyyy downhill...what if this guy ends up resigning...hes undersized yes...he plays with a ton of heart yes...he is prolly a top 15(maybe 10) corner i dunno what you guys are smoking that deion and a buncha these rooks like d hall are better than him...look so he wants a ton of money...he will prolly get it somewhere else...hes given his all for this team i dont see y theres so much hate for him he hasnt even left yet

[Vonslydog]

wow this has gone wayyyy downhill...what if this guy ends up resigning...hes undersized yes...he plays with a ton of heart yes...he is prolly a top 15(maybe 10) corner i dunno what you guys are smoking that deion and a buncha these rooks like d hall are better than him...look so he wants a ton of money...he will prolly get it somewhere else...hes given his all for this team i dont see y theres so much hate for him he hasnt even left yet
If Smoot does end up resigning, a new thread will start up with everyone saying how they are so happy he stuck around and how he is the heart and soul of the team. Just like the threads a couple of months ago about how great he was and he still got screwed out of the probowl.

[Skins57]

I would love for Smoot to be back, I just do not want to overpay and not be able to address our other needs, that being said, boy some of you have really soured on Smoot..huh? I bet if we go back to mid season a lot of these same people were saying how we HAVE to resign Smoot as he is that good. crazy.

I think Smoot is a top 10 CB and the more I think about it 10 million to 14 million is only 4 million and if it is a 7 year deal that would be a cap hit of 571,000 more a year. I think if it comes to it I think it is worth it

[BIGSEF3]

yeah, i mentioned that earlier, too. even if it were only a 4year deal, 1 M a year is more than worth it to keep smoot. i think what will happen is we will have more players do what wynn, ramsey, and jansen have done and restructure to free up cap room. we will cut samuels, which will give us a ton of room. that will free up money to sign smoot to something close to what he is asking for. 4 million over 4-7 years isnt worth squabling over, in my opinion. smoot is one of the better corners in the league, and i feel we will find a way to keep him. i really do.

[BIGSEF3]

oh, and about smoots abilities, oposing quarterbacks had a QB rating of around 58 when they played the skins defense this year. that means, among other things, smoot and springs were both doing one hell of a job covering the receivers.

to put it in perspective, opposing quarterbacks played our defense, and played worse than mark brunell. there is no way you can argue smoot was not a huge factor in our defense being so good.

[chrisbcbu]

It depends on the length of his contract for me to judge him. If its a 4yr contract i dont see him getting a 14 mil signing bonus. If its a long 7yr then i can see giving in to the 14 mil.

[BurgundyNGold]

Oh my god has this thread gone mad?????? Half of the people of that list is not at all better than smoot. Why is everyone hating on him?
I'm not hating on him -- but I'm not being a blind homer either. I can make a legitimate argument for everybody on that list I provided. I didn't just randomly pick names. I said that Smoot was a top 20 - 25 corner. What's so bad (or wrong) about that? That would make him a #1 corner on 7 - 12 teams in the league.

I've said the same thing for years and actually had him ranked LOWER than this going into the '04 season. If he was not a FA, I'd be saying the exact same thing. There is just a big discrepancy between what Smoot thinks of himself and what he's actually accomplised in this league. He's always had a legitmate #1 CB on the other side of him and has never been a #1 CB himself. That's a fact. How is pointing that out hating on him?

If he does resign, it does not change his resume one bit, so my assessment will be the same. Would I like him to stay? Absolutely. But we offered the guy a $14M SB. He wants $18M. There is no freakin' way that he is worth that kinda cash in 2005 US dollars. Maybe in Canadian dollars.

BTW, I did consider Ahmad Plummer, but, IMO, Smoot is better right now. Once again, IMO, McQuarters is not as good, Sam Madison has lost a step and Deion was around when Noah was building his Ark.