Skins Re-sign Holdman

[GolfFreak]

http://www.redskins.com/news/newsDetail.jsp?id=16532

Guess this means we are looking at a DB with our 1st pick ... hopefully he plays better next year.

[CNYSkinFan]

I think it frees us up to pick the best available talent, and I still think , and pray, we go LB. Holdman is not an option in a real defense and Lindsey's mancrush has got to stop.

[shally]

I think it frees us up to pick the best available talent, and I still think , and pray, we go LB. Holdman is not an option in a real defense and Lindsey's mancrush has got to stop.


hopefully it means we go after cromartie...

[AliBabba]

hopefully it means we go after cromartie...

This signing changes nothing for me, besides my blood pressure, take Best available LB (McIntosh hopefully)

[SpicyMcHaggis]

hopefully it means we go after cromartie...
At #53? Not a shot...

[GolfFreak]

hopefully it means we go after cromartie...

Not w/o trading up. Good idea though, he sounds like the real deal.

[AliBabba]

At #53? Not a shot...

i think he means trading up, i'd rather not do that though, let's hold onto next year's picks in case we need to replace Dock/Cooley

[whistleandthumb]

As expected. They need depth, especially until they know what they are doing with that position. I still don't feel comfortable with him out there.

[Redskin4Life]

i think he means trading up, i'd rather not do that though, let's hold onto next year's picks in case we need to replace Dock/Cooley
Why would we need to replace Cooley?

I've got a feeling that Dock will be signed to a new deal after the draft or after he has a good season.

[S.Taylor36]

i think he means trading up, i'd rather not do that though, let's hold onto next year's picks in case we need to replace Dock/Cooley

Replace Cooley? I think we now take the best player available at either the DB or LB position.

[D-Ruck #8]

My dream situation would be that Bobby Carpenter falls into the 40's and we trade up to get him. No way do I want to see Holdman out there for the start of the season.

[SpicyMcHaggis]

i think he means trading up, i'd rather not do that though, let's hold onto next year's picks in case we need to replace Dock/Cooley
I don't think we have the ammo to move into the first round this year without giving up way too many picks...

[AliBabba]

Why would we need to replace Cooley?

I've got a feeling that Dock will be signed to a new deal after the draft or after he has a good season.

Isn't this his last year? Forget it, we may have a REAL need next year, while this year I am pretty happy with everything right now

[S.Taylor36]

My dream situation would be that Bobby Carpenter falls into the 40's and we trade up to get him. No way do I want to see Holdman out there for the start of the season.

No way Bobby Carepenter falls to us. He won't get past the Giants in the 1st round.

[Redblood]

Grrrrrrrrrrr. [so angry, unable to respond in actual words]

[Santheb]

:banghead:

[Syllable]

Darth Vader says: N0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 0000000000000000000000000000000000. Why must this happen to us. Why!!!

[Redskinfan28]

I guess the coaches are not as high on Clemons as much as we thought.

[CNYSkinFan]

I guess the coaches are not as high on Clemons as much as we thought.
or maybe they are just high

[SpicyMcHaggis]

or maybe they are just high

LMAO! :lol1:

[silverspring]

boo hiss. I hope he is intended to be a backup cause we already no what we will get from him and that is someone that will stay in position but not do much.

[finnspidey]

at least he gets to hang with his brother.

[redskin_rich]

Was Holdman given any or much of a signing bonus?
I doubt it, there is nothing wrong with bringing in a vet for competition. Holdman is probably as good as anybody else that is left in free agency at this point, especially with his familiarity with the system. I think you all are making too big a deal of this right now, I wouldn't start complaining until September, if Holdman is still on the team.

[finnspidey]

I dont think we are settled with the LB core yet so why not have someone who (semi)knows the system. It seems LaVar was never comfortable in it so maybe its not as easy a sytem as I once thought. But then again LaVar never got comfortable in any system including Marvin's which everyone seems to love.

[shally]

Was Holdman given any or much of a signing bonus?
I doubt it, there is nothing wrong with bringing in a vet for competition. Holdman is probably as good as anybody else that is left in free agency at this point, especially with his familiarity with the system. I think you all are making too big a deal of this right now, I wouldn't start complaining until September, if Holdman is still on the team.

agreed. there is a lot of time for things to shake out..

now if holdman is starting in september i am gonna have knots in my stomach

[LadyNRedskinsfan]

i truly hope this is for depth purposes. holdman cannot start.....:banghead:

[3Taylor6]

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!

[redwolf1218]

This is terrific news. Holdman knows the system and has a long and storied history with the coaching staff. He is a veteran, but not too old at 30 years of age. He will be coming back into his 2nd full season after knee surgery, his 2nd year in Williams' defense, and could fill in as a backup or win the starting job if he returns to form...

...i'm just trying to look at the bright side.

[SpicyMcHaggis]

This is terrific news. Holdman knows the system and has a long and storied history with the coaching staff. He is a veteran, but not too old at 30 years of age. He will be coming back into his 2nd full season after knee surgery, his 2nd year in Williams' defense, and could fill in as a backup or win the starting job if he returns to form...

but.................he sucks.

[LATrueRedskin]

I like this signing. He'd be much better than Clemons because he's proven he can play his assignment. Not a big playmaker by any means, but considering what's left out in FA and what we have on the team, this helps me sit much easier. This also gives us some leverage in the draft, as we can draft either a CB or LB equally.

[redwolf1218]

I like this signing. He'd be much better than Clemons because he's proven he can play his assignment. Not a big playmaker by any means, but considering what's left out in FA and what we have on the team, this helps me sit much easier. This also gives us some leverage in the draft, as we can draft either a CB or LB equally.
good point, and depending on the outcome of Taylor's trial, we might be in the market for a safety on draft day as well.

[AliBabba]

I like this signing. He'd be much better than Clemons because he's proven he can play his assignment. Not a big playmaker by any means, but considering what's left out in FA and what we have on the team, this helps me sit much easier. This also gives us some leverage in the draft, as we can draft either a CB or LB equally.

WHAT??? you can't be serious. the man was never, ever in position. he sucks, he lost us the broncos game, he looked like he couldn't start for my flag football team against the Giants (the first time), and he's really bad.

I'd agree about leverage though

[LATrueRedskin]

WHAT??? you can't be serious. the man was never, ever in position. he sucks, he lost us the broncos game, he looked like he couldn't start for my flag football team against the Giants (the first time), and he's really bad.

I'd agree about leverage though

Oh I'm serious. He was in position tons more than he wasn't. I'd much rather have a guy who I've seen on the field in plays other than a bullrush assignment, then take chances with a guy who may or may not be capable of playing the position. I know he's not Marcus Washington, but he's not Robert McCune either. Considering what's left out there and what we had, this is a good pickup IMO.

[redwolf1218]

conspiracy theory: people think we need to replace Lavar, so over the past fews days, we've seen a couple of articles about how good Clemons is, we've brought in several corners/db's for interviews and let that news out as well, and now we sign Holdman. all this as we approach the draft, possibly posturing to make everyone think we dont need a linebacker. so i figure they want to draft a linebacker.

[AliBabba]

Oh I'm serious. He was in position tons more than he wasn't. I'd much rather have a guy who I've seen on the field in plays other than a bullrush assignment, then take chances with a guy who may or may not be capable of playing the position. I know he's not Marcus Washington, but he's not Robert McCune either. Considering what's left out there and what we had, this is a good pickup IMO.

I agree to disagree ... strongly disagree

[CNYSkinFan]

Oh I'm serious. He was in position tons more than he wasn't. I'd much rather have a guy who I've seen on the field in plays other than a bullrush assignment, then take chances with a guy who may or may not be capable of playing the position. I know he's not Marcus Washington, but he's not Robert McCune either. Considering what's left out there and what we had, this is a good pickup IMO.

Sure he was in position, the only problem is that position was on his arse after getting bocked by a wide receiver.

Holdman may have been in the right place but what good is that if he can not make the play to stop the offense.

This is a sign to get Dale Lindsey to shut up about Holdman. If he makes the squad great but if he is a starter we have a serious hole on the left side.

[whitskins]

The guy is a backup, that's obvious. No reason to get bent out of shape. I don't think he'll be starting unless there's an injury. And it's silly to blame him specifically for our defenses early season woes. They were all playing sub-par. Late in the year when Holdman subbed for Lavar against Arizona and Dallas, we hardly noticed the difference. He'll be fine as a backup.

[LATrueRedskin]

Sure he was in position, the only problem is that position was on his arse after getting bocked by a wide receiver.

Holdman may have been in the right place but what good is that if he can not make the play to stop the offense.

This is a sign to get Dale Lindsey to shut up about Holdman. If he makes the squad great but if he is a starter we have a serious hole on the left side.

So we're going to take our chances with Chris Clemons? Who's only assignment for us his whole career is to rush the passer? I'm very uncomfortable with that. Signing a veteran is a very, very good idea, considering we have a pass rusher who has never covered anybody in his career in Chris Clemons, a special teams player in Robert McCune, and possibley a rookie who has never played in the NFL.

[meloveskinslongtime]

this is great news ... i mean now we can have holdman secure the WLB starting job. Its a good thing that we have him to take over arrington's depature. I wouldnt know what else to do since arrington left. ..... wait a minute, didnt holdman lose his job to arrington, who we all know that the coaches were reluctant to start him. hmmmmm, this is interesting

























p.s. you should look for the in between the lines sarcasm. i dont want holdman starting as our WLB.

[shally]

this is great news ... i mean now we can have holdman secure the WLB starting job. Its a good thing that we have him to take over arrington's depature. I wouldnt know what else to do since arrington left. ..... wait a minute, didnt holdman lose his job to arrington, who we all know that the coaches were reluctant to start him. hmmmmm, this is interesting

























p.s. you should look for the in between the lines sarcasm. i dont want holdman starting as our WLB.


you are making this too hard to deal with using raw emotions... LOL

[lakeskin]

The guy is a backup, that's obvious. No reason to get bent out of shape. I don't think he'll be starting unless there's an injury. And it's silly to blame him specifically for our defenses early season woes. They were all playing sub-par. Late in the year when Holdman subbed for Lavar against Arizona and Dallas, we hardly noticed the difference. He'll be fine as a backup.

Arizona had no running game and both of Dallas' offensive tackles were out that game. Not to mention the fact Dallas has no running game and they were behind big forcing them to throw for most of the game.

He started over a far superior athelete last year who made a boatload of money and was one of the most celebrated Redskins. This guy more than likely will start. The coaches are obviously comfortable with him. If they can start him over Lavar they'll have no problem starting him over a green rookie or a pass rush specialist. Unless we sign Adams (never mind, thanks shally), Holdman is the guy.

He'll be seeing a lot of action too when teams start running to his side almost exclusively.

[shally]

Arizona had no running game and both of Dallas' offensive tackles were out that game. Not to mention the fact Dallas has no running game and they were behind big forcing them to throw for most of the game.

He started over a far superior athelete last year who made a boatload of money and was one of the most celebrated Redskins. This guy more than likely will start. The coaches are obviously comfortable with him. If they can start him over Lavar they'll have no problem starting him over a green rookie or a pass rush specialist. Unless we sign Adams, Holdman is the guy.

He'll be seeing a lot of action too when teams start running to his side almost exclusively.

adams is long gone.. he signed with carolina

daniels had better play some awesome def end in front of him..

[whitskins]

Arizona had no running game and both of Dallas' offensive tackles were out that game. Not to mention the fact Dallas has no running game and they were behind big forcing them to throw for most of the game.

He started over a far superior athelete last year who made a boatload of money and was one of the most celebrated Redskins. This guy more than likely will start. The coaches are obviously comfortable with him. If they can start him over Lavar they'll have no problem starting him over a green rookie or a pass rush specialist. Unless we sign Adams (never mind, thanks shally), Holdman is the guy.

He'll be seeing a lot of action too when teams start running to his side almost exclusively.

Arizona and Dallas' offensive deficiencies aside, the overall defense clearly played at a much higher level at the end of the season. My point is when Holdman was struggling, much of the defense was struggling as well. When everyone stepped up their game a bit more, then we stopped seeing a lot of the big plays that were commonplace in the early half of the season.

And I don't see how Holdman starting last year has much to do with the situation this year. He started last year because Lavar was still extremely slow to recover from his injury. Holdman was benched midseason, he lost his job, so why would his previous starting stint provide any legitimate indicator towards this season?

I think the better indicator is this: free agency has been going on for over a month and we just now extended an offer to the guy. It seems like we weren't really all that concerned with keeping him or letting him go. We locked up Demetric Evans well before Holdman, it doesn't seem like we're treating Holdman anything like a starter so I will be shocked if he becomes one again for any reason other than injury (which is why he was a starter in the first place).

[shally]

conspiracy theory: people think we need to replace Lavar, so over the past fews days, we've seen a couple of articles about how good Clemons is, we've brought in several corners/db's for interviews and let that news out as well, and now we sign Holdman. all this as we approach the draft, possibly posturing to make everyone think we dont need a linebacker. so i figure they want to draft a linebacker.

could happen exactly that way... this is dis-information time all over the league

[darkwing99]

Well so much for my signature.... sigh :bangdesk:

[HanburgerBum]

For all the Holdman detractors, this is not the end of the world. Holdman is insurance, in case Clemons, Sykes or a rookie (I am not even putting McCune into the mix because I don't think he can play) can't nail down the starting job.

It is clear that Holdman won't have trouble adapting to the GW defense. Wouldn't you want someone there who at least has started at that spot in the NFL and would work for the veteran minimum (I am assuming that)? Besides, if you don't want Holdman around, what then is your solution in case the younger players are not ready or not worthy?

Also, re-signing Holdman doesn't mean the Skins won't use #53 on a WLB. If someone like McIntosh is still there, I am betting the Skins take him.

[lakeskin]

Arizona and Dallas' offensive deficiencies aside, the overall defense clearly played at a much higher level at the end of the season. My point is when Holdman was struggling, much of the defense was struggling as well. When everyone stepped up their game a bit more, then we stopped seeing a lot of the big plays that were commonplace in the early half of the season.

And I don't see how Holdman starting last year has much to do with the situation this year. He started last year because Lavar was still extremely slow to recover from his injury. Holdman was benched midseason, he lost his job, so why would his previous starting stint provide any legitimate indicator towards this season?

I think the better indicator is this: free agency has been going on for over a month and we just now extended an offer to the guy. It seems like we weren't really all that concerned with keeping him or letting him go. We locked up Demetric Evans well before Holdman, it doesn't seem like we're treating Holdman anything like a starter so I will be shocked if he becomes one again for any reason other than injury (which is why he was a starter in the first place).

Or we were pretty confident that no else would sign him. :)

It would be very easy for the coaches to fall back on Holdman as a starter because he has started for them and there doesnt seem to be anyone on the roster who would supplant him considering we have the same linebacking core minus Lavar. We could start a rookie but these coaches seem to like to bring rookies along slowly inserting them into the starting lineup midseason.

Lavar was ready to play for weeks, the coaches just chose to stick it out with the human blocking dummy for various reasons.

So either way I think theres a high probabilty that Holdman starts. Frankly, I hope they cut him in camp, but sadly he may be our most viable option at that spot. Hopefully, the other LB's on the roster will have improved dramatically from last season.

[whitskins]

Or we were pretty confident that no else would sign him. :)

It would be very easy for the coaches to fall back on Holdman as a starter because he has started for them and there doesnt seem to be anyone on the roster who would supplant him considering we have the same linebacking core minus Lavar. We could start a rookie but these coaches seem to like to bring rookies along slowly inserting them into the starting lineup midseason.

Lavar was ready to play for weeks, the coaches just chose to stick it out with the human blocking dummy for various reasons.

So either way I think theres a high probabilty that Holdman starts. Frankly, I hope they cut him in camp, but sadly he may be our most viable option at that spot. Hopefully, the other LB's on the roster will have improved dramatically from last season.

Lavar was ready to play for weeks according to Lavar. He was spouting off for weeks about how healthy he was, then when the coaches finally put him back in he admitted that they were right and he was still recovering from his injury at the beginning of the season.

I still don't think Holdman will start, but if he does it will likely be a short term fix until a rookie is ready to step in. Every move the team has made this year has been to get younger and fresher, so I don't know why they would look towards Holdman starting the entire year without a better solution.

Also, the recent article about Chris Clemons on Redskins.com makes it seem like Clemons has been in long contact with the coaches about the WLB spot and that they're getting him hyped up to compete for the spot very early. My money is on CC if we choose not to draft an LB in round two.

[shally]

Lavar was ready to play for weeks according to Lavar. He was spouting off for weeks about how healthy he was, then when the coaches finally put him back in he admitted that they were right and he was still recovering from his injury at the beginning of the season.

I still don't think Holdman will start, but if he does it will likely be a short term fix until a rookie is ready to step in. Every move the team has made this year has been to get younger and fresher, so I don't know why they would look towards Holdman starting the entire year without a better solution.

Also, the recent article about Chris Clemons on Redskins.com makes it seem like Clemons has been in long contact with the coaches about the WLB spot and that they're getting him hyped up to compete for the spot very early. My money is on CC if we choose not to draft an LB in round two.


clemons got both a pat on the back and a warning shot.. if they draft a linebacker in round 2 you can interpret it the same way ramsey's vote of confidence should have been received..

[whitskins]

clemons got both a pat on the back and a warning shot.. if they draft a linebacker in round 2 you can interpret it the same way ramsey's vote of confidence should have been received..

Sure, but Ramsey was eventually cast off and forgotten, Clemons could remain an important backup, and could also be above Holdman on the depth chart even if he's not starting.

[schmackledackle]

Too much hyperbole concerning how awful Holdman was last year. He started several games last season for a defense that was one of the best in the league. He is a solid, albeit unspectacular, contibutor to our defense.

All that's being mentioned is the Denver game. Missed tackles and position flaws could be placed on a bunch of guys for those runs. Remember that Holdman also played when the D shut down the run against Chicago, the first Dallas game, Seattle (except for one big run by Alexander), Tampa, etc.

Lavar was playing when we got gashed for 200+ by LaDanian.

This is a solid signing to improve depth and maintain continuity.

[SkinsASchamps]

Too much hyperbole concerning how awful Holdman was last year. He started several games last season for a defense that was one of the best in the league. He is a solid, albeit unspectacular, contibutor to our defense.

All that's being mentioned is the Denver game. Missed tackles and position flaws could be placed on a bunch of guys for those runs. Remember that Holdman also played when the D shut down the run against Chicago, the first Dallas game, Seattle (except for one big run by Alexander), Tampa, etc.

Lavar was playing when we got gashed for 200+ by LaDanian.

This is a solid signing to improve depth and maintain continuity.

I agree. I like this move. The coaches wanted him back. That is good enough for me.

[RedskinsVision]

Holdman will fill in adaquately as a backup and on special teams. Probably get around 10-20 snaps a game to rest Clemons or whoever the starter is. Clemons haven't proven he can start an entire year yet so we need a veteran like Holdman who knows Williams/Lindsay's LB system to help teach the younger guys.

[RedskinRyan]

i knew at some point we were gonna make a bad signing this offseason...

[Death_Venom]

I think EVERYBODY needs to take a LONG DEEP BREATH..............Holdman is nothing more than an insurance policy...............Odds are he will start a few games and the WSLB position will be rotated between him & Clemons whom I think coaches are curious to how he performs in Training Camp.............And there is the possiblity we may move and grab us LB in the upcoming Draft...........All things considered it was smart move to keep a guy who is familiar with GW's defense-..............

[silverspring]

Well so much for my signature.... sigh :bangdesk:

feeling you on that one. My whole thing is that we all know holdman is at best a backup that knows the system. I just hope that the coaches see it that way too. Cause I am positive clemons can play as poor as holdman, but the difference is clemons has upside.

[redwolf1218]

could happen exactly that way... this is dis-information time all over the league
thanks, and i cant believe you remembered Sam Shade...cudos for that little blast from the past. that guy and "the sheriff" Stanley Richard...2 brilliant moves by Casserly. we've come a long way since then.

[PyroGenic]

omg whyyyyyyy????

This has made my bad day even worse

[skins111111]

looks like Williams is going to rotate Clemmons and Holdman at Will....we could possibly be grooming a draft pick but I'm hopeing our 53rd pick is a CB.
So whats the status on McCune?

[LATrueRedskin]

looks like Williams is going to rotate Clemmons and Holdman at Will....we could possibly be grooming a draft pick but I'm hopeing our 53rd pick is a CB.
So whats the status on McCune?

Not sure officially. My stand is that he's nothing but a special teams player. There's no way he should even be considered a starting linebacker, especially at Weakside Linebacker. He's a good teams player, but if he's starting next year, we would have to have a serious injury problem. I just don't think he's that good.

[Red Bear]

i think at this point in time this is a good signing. holdman is capable of providing solid depth or possibly starting. i think he might have more personal motivation to be successful this year after getting benched last year. i dont think were done looking at linebackers either, i bet gibbs and company will be keeping their eyes open

[Keino]

Too much hyperbole concerning how awful Holdman was last year. He started several games last season for a defense that was one of the best in the league. He is a solid, albeit unspectacular, contibutor to our defense.

All that's being mentioned is the Denver game. Missed tackles and position flaws could be placed on a bunch of guys for those runs. Remember that Holdman also played when the D shut down the run against Chicago, the first Dallas game, Seattle (except for one big run by Alexander), Tampa, etc.

Lavar was playing when we got gashed for 200+ by LaDanian.

This is a solid signing to improve depth and maintain continuity.

:goodpost:

[shally]

:goodpost:

i do not see it as a sign of depth.. he does not play special teams, so i sure hope he does not see the field very often.
he doesn't rush the passer and he doesn't hold the point very well

[shally]

Sure, but Ramsey was eventually cast off and forgotten, Clemons could remain an important backup, and could also be above Holdman on the depth chart even if he's not starting.

you are right about 1 thing for certain.... clemons wouldn't mind being a reserve if he gets beaten out as a starter starter-- he wants to make the squad.. whereas ramsey was not going to be happy if he wasn't starting

[Dept_of_Defense]

Holdman will prove to be a worthy backup for us. I still believe either McCune, Campbell, or Clemons will win the starting job.

[LATrueRedskin]

i do not see it as a sign of depth.. he does not play special teams, so i sure hope he does not see the field very often.
he doesn't rush the passer and he doesn't hold the point very well

IMO Holdman is a utility player. He does everything fairly well, but he's not great at one thing. He's very capable of filling the role just like he did for LaVar Arrington. We're not talking Julian Peterson here, but we could have done worse digging from our own team or reaching out in FA. The guy has played here and knows what he's doing. And now that he's done with the usual 2 year recovery from surgery, he may even be better than what he was last year. Holdman can fill in while we draft a rookie LB and groom him during his first couple of games or the whole season. At the least, the very least, he'll provide veteran competition for Chris Clemons during TC and preseason.

My thinking is this: the linebacker market is very grim right now, so why not re-sign a guy who knows his teammates, knows his coaches and what they expect, and will be a positive, veteran voice in the lockerroom?

[PA Skins Girl]

He still has to make the team. No guarantees of that.

[bgforever]

He still has to make the team. No guarantees of that.

True, but I think this opens the door for less concentrated look at the LB's they would look at, likely in round 2. They may have a scoop on a pick that is getting courted quite intensy by a team and it is increasing the likelihood, that particular player is getting picked further up. Of course there can surprises, since Reggie Bush isn't likely to go as the #1 pick in Houston, who's refocused on defense instead and looking at Mario Williams as their #1. This pushes some players to other teams in the top 15, which may force a given player further into the 2nd round, that wasn't figured to be there, not because of his skills and talents, but by the drafting domino theory.

By signing Holman, we ensure we have at least a set of LB's with a very good LB coach, that will drill in Holdman's head, the help he'll need to be more improved this year. Playing time was tight and Holdman was FORCED in his role a bit sooner than Lindsey would have liked. However, like Jimoh, we may see surprise play from him and it may show up in TC and preseason.

Remember how some were impressed last season with Jimoh in PRESEASON, and honestly a lot of us thought, oh yeah, preseason big deal.
Well as the season progressed, so did Jimoh. Playing time in regular games does it. Although Holdman's not as impressive to most, including me, Lindsey, GW have to consider as much in all phases, to sign him. The comparisons showed we actually have a good backup, with knowledge somewhat of the defensive plan for him. This also bolsters his fellow LB's confidence to help each other along. MW, Marshall and Clemons are likely to lend as much as they can to help him (Holdman).

[redwolf1218]

holdman might be good this year. we'll see.

[GoDannyBoy]

Good signing.

Good comments, we will see when camp begins.

I hope we draft a LB and that we don't trade next years number one.

[shally]

IMO Holdman is a utility player. He does everything fairly well, but he's not great at one thing. He's very capable of filling the role just like he did for LaVar Arrington. We're not talking Julian Peterson here, but we could have done worse digging from our own team or reaching out in FA. The guy has played here and knows what he's doing. And now that he's done with the usual 2 year recovery from surgery, he may even be better than what he was last year. Holdman can fill in while we draft a rookie LB and groom him during his first couple of games or the whole season. At the least, the very least, he'll provide veteran competition for Chris Clemons during TC and preseason.

My thinking is this: the linebacker market is very grim right now, so why not re-sign a guy who knows his teammates, knows his coaches and what they expect, and will be a positive, veteran voice in the lockerroom?


i think you are correct that he is a good lockerroom presence.. he certainly is not trouble.
he just seems to get rolled a lot at the point of attack and i cannot recall a single "big" play he has personally made.
i just hope that clemons makes keeping him un-necessary and we can get younger and more athletic in the position

[bgforever]

i think you are correct that he is a good lockerroom presence.. he certainly is not trouble.
he just seems to get rolled a lot at the point of attack and i cannot recall a single "big" play he has personally made.
i just hope that clemons makes keeping him un-necessary and we can get younger and more athletic in the position

This is what is expected. Holdman to push Clemons, and it will show Clemons attitude, since we all know Holdman's not as great a challenge as some of the 1st and potentially top 2nd rounders available. With Help Holdman should be better, but by all means DON'T take the draft pick off the table yet. I feel there will be some surprises available in the 2d, but we must also be mindful of teams with multiple picks in rd 1 and 2, their needs. LB looks good, but not a lock, ditto for CB, TE, however, OL that are possible short term learning curve are available.

[shally]

This is what is expected. Holdman to push Clemons, and it will show Clemons attitude, since we all know Holdman's not as great a challenge as some of the 1st and potentially top 2nd rounders available. With Help Holdman should be better, but by all means DON'T take the draft pick off the table yet. I feel there will be some surprises available in the 2d, but we must also be mindful of teams with multiple picks in rd 1 and 2, their needs. LB looks good, but not a lock, ditto for CB, TE, however, OL that are possible short term learning curve are available.

there are some other threads here where people are guessing that the skins are targeting a CB with a trade up (i think that scenario is very probable)

[LATrueRedskin]

i think you are correct that he is a good lockerroom presence.. he certainly is not trouble.
he just seems to get rolled a lot at the point of attack and i cannot recall a single "big" play he has personally made.
i just hope that clemons makes keeping him un-necessary and we can get younger and more athletic in the position

You're right, he's not a big playmaker by any means. Heck, at the most, he could be just a body that gets in the way of the runner or takes up a lead blocker, enabling Marcus Washington or Sean Taylor to make the tackle. But I think Holdman's fairly adequete in coverage and he know's where he is supposed to be and what his job is on that play.

Clemons is an excellent pass rusher, but that's all we know of him. He came in on obvious pass rushing downs and bull rushed every time he was on the field. Holdman provides insurance during TC and preseason that we at least have somebody to put there if Clemons were to prove he can't cover anybody.

I'd much rather draft a linebacker with our 2nd rounder, and not give up anything else to move up.

[silverspring]

holdman might be good this year. we'll see.

i can be hopeful but there is nothing that points to a concrete reason why. He was once a formidable player but now he is in the declining side of his career, he is getting older and slower every year. I know he had an injury a couple years ago but as far as i know he was all good last year. Sure he knows the system and will be a dependable mediocre backup but never more.

I really hope we still draft a lb in the 2nd because we need some depth at this position and i really don't see us getting a potential #1 cb at #53 so why even bother. If we are going to draft a cb we need one that can replace springs and that is asking for a lot at #53. Although i guess moving up is still a possibility.

[shally]

i can be hopeful but there is nothing that points to a concrete reason why. He was once a formidable player but now he is in the declining side of his career, he is getting older and slower every year. I know he had an injury a couple years ago but as far as i know he was all good last year. Sure he knows the system and will be a dependable mediocre backup but never more.

I really hope we still draft a lb in the 2nd because we need some depth at this position and i really don't see us getting a potential #1 cb at #53 so why even bother. If we are going to draft a cb we need one that can replace springs and that is asking for a lot at #53. Although i guess moving up is still a possibility.


the excuse that i read (warpathinsiders.com) was that lindsay thought he was confused or reacted poorly to the system.
they were in essence giving him a mulligan. my guess it will push clemons, but also, holdman will be on a short leash and if he plays pooorly he will be gone...
taken inthat context he is not that bad a signing..

[MWballer]

Holdman is experienced depth at the WLB position in case Clemons or McCunne don't pan out. We wouldn't just want to have 3 in-experienced players as our WLB candidates(I'm counting the WLB many of you'll want us to draft added to Clemons and McCunne). Holdman gives us a vet back up if Clemons or McCunne fall through. Plus he's a great utility guy for us whose already been in the system.

I think this signing does however affect the chances of us picking up a WLB with the #53 pick though.
Because why would we want 3 inexperienced players in there competing for the position all around the same talent ability. When we could have two and a vet like we do competing. If it doesn't work out well get a high caliber replacement next year.

[shally]

Holdman is experienced depth at the WLB position in case Clemons or McCunne don't pan out. We wouldn't just want to have 3 in-experienced players as our WLB candidates(I'm counting the WLB many of you'll want us to draft added to Clemons and McCunne). Holdman gives us a vet back up if Clemons or McCunne fall through. Plus he's a great utility guy for us whose already been in the system.

I think this signing does however affect the chances of us picking up a WLB with the #53 pick though.
Because why would we want 3 inexperienced players in there competing for the position all around the same talent ability. When we could have two and a vet like we do competing. If it doesn't work out well get a high caliber replacement next year.


i do agree with you that it points towards the skins using their pick on a position other than linebacker...

[FanFromArizona]

This was our plan B option for backup WLB, the first one signed with Carolina Panthers. It did not cost all that much either:


Redskins | Contract update: W. Holdman
Tue, 18 Apr 2006 18:51:35 -0700

ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli reports Washington Redskins LB Warrick Holdman signed a one-year contract with a base salary of $710,000 to remain with the team.


Just because we signed Holdman, I think it should be viewed as a veteran, familiar with the system, and providing depth signing. I still think we will go in the LB or Lineman direction with our 2ND rounder.

[shally]

This was our plan B option for backup WLB, the first one signed with Carolina Panthers. It did not cost all that much either:



Just because we signed Holdman, I think it should be viewed as a veteran, familiar with the system, and providing depth signing. I still think we will go in the LB or Lineman direction with our 2ND rounder.

and that should leave us about 3 million left in cap space for the draft and any other free agents...

[FanFromArizona]

and that should leave us about 3 million left in cap space for the draft and any other free agents...

If you figure we will use about 1 Million of that on our draft picks assuming we draft from the positions we are at currently, that leaves about 2 million left. I would like to see that extra money either moved into next year's cap figure or used to extend the contract of either Cooley or Betts next offseason.

[shally]

If you figure we will use about 1 Million of that on our draft picks assuming we draft from the positions we are at currently, that leaves about 2 million left. I would like to see that extra money either moved into next year's cap figure or used to extend the contract of either Cooley or Betts next offseason.

i think betts is a goner after next year... either cooley or dockery represent the best value for that money...

[ConradCountry]

This is a who cares move, Holdman can start in a pinch.

[lakeskin]

This is a who cares move, Holdman can start in a pinch.

I think thats exactly why people care.

[OCSKINSFAN]

IMO Holdman is a utility player. He does everything fairly well, but he's not great at one thing. He's very capable of filling the role just like he did for LaVar Arrington. We're not talking Julian Peterson here, but we could have done worse digging from our own team or reaching out in FA. The guy has played here and knows what he's doing. And now that he's done with the usual 2 year recovery from surgery, he may even be better than what he was last year. Holdman can fill in while we draft a rookie LB and groom him during his first couple of games or the whole season. At the least, the very least, he'll provide veteran competition for Chris Clemons during TC and preseason.

My thinking is this: the linebacker market is very grim right now, so why not re-sign a guy who knows his teammates, knows his coaches and what they expect, and will be a positive, veteran voice in the lockerroom?

I just don't see this as justification for the signing. Holdman does nothing well. Even if he was in the right position, he never made a play. He never got away from a block. He might as well have been a cigar store indian. If he plays, even as a backup, we are in trouble. Maybe the only reason I have seen on this string that makes some sense for this is to provide some competition for Clemons, possibly a rookie, or McCune.

[HanburgerBum]

Holdman will prove to be a worthy backup for us. I still believe either McCune, Campbell, or Clemons will win the starting job.


I believe Khary Campbell is Marshall's backup at MLB. Forget McCune, he is not a position player. With the present group, I think it will have to be Clemons or Sykes. If neither of these two can be a three-down WLB, don't be surprised if the Skins go to that rotation of Holdman on running downs and Clemons on passing downs.

[Skinsfan1311]

i truly hope this is for depth purposes. holdman cannot start.....:banghead:

Everyone said the same thing about Brunell, last year.

Maybe Lindsey sees something in Holdman that the rest of us don't. I sincerely hope so!

[shally]

Everyone said the same thing about Brunell, last year.

Maybe Lindsey sees something in Holdman that the rest of us don't. I sincerely hope so!

the concern is that what lindsay sees in holdman is what once was there while he was a bear, and no longer is there..

i tend to agree that the fall back position is linebacker by committee on the weak side..

[redwolf1218]

i'm intrigued by this Jashon Sykes guy. sounds like he was pretty incredible in college early on, then had some injuries and entered the draft a year early, which might have been a mistake. he could develop into something special.

http://www.houstonprofootball.com/draft/2002/prospects/sykes.html

[smoak]

I can't say I am excited about this move in the least. I'll support Holdman b/c I trust the coaching staff, but I graded his performance as very poor in '05.

[shally]

i'm intrigued by this Jashon Sykes guy. sounds like he was pretty incredible in college early on, then had some injuries and entered the draft a year early, which might have been a mistake. he could develop into something special.

http://www.houstonprofootball.com/draft/2002/prospects/sykes.html


also, he had one terrific year with the broncs.. i think he lost his job when ian gold returned to them.

he is supposed to be a killer special teams player

[CNYSkinFan]

also, he had one terrific year with the broncs.. i think he lost his job when ian gold returned to them.

he is supposed to be a killer special teams player
Thats all great but why was he out of football for a year.

I am very suspect of anyone out of football for a year when there is no injury or reasonable explanation besides not being able to make a squad.

[shally]

I can't say I am excited about this move in the least. I'll support Holdman b/c I trust the coaching staff, but I graded his performance as very poor in '05.

i think the holdman signing is definitely a glass half full/half empty scenario depending upon how you view his abilities

[shally]

Thats all great but why was he out of football for a year.

I am very suspect of anyone out of football for a year when there is no injury or reasonable explanation besides not being able to make a squad.

i know he had an injury, but i am not sure whether that was the reason he sat out.. i do agree with you that it casts him in a negative light, since he was a starter..
wasn't demetric evans out for a year?

sometimes guys need a kick in the pants to "get it"

[redwolf1218]

correct me if i'm wrong, but wasnt Clemons in Cleveland a couple of years ago at the same time Holdman spent a year as the starter there? i think Holdman will win the starting position again this year. he went from Chicago, then injured, to Cleveland, then here, so he really hasnt had much time to recover fully and get totally familiar with a new system. this year he might be in better playing shape with the knee all healed, plus he'll have a year in this system. he really might be a lot better, and he's only 30.

[Redskinmayhem]

holdman was a good player in chicago. when colvin was there along with ole #54, the three of them were a formidable LB corps. I think he'll be ok. He just needs to be more agressive.

[smoak]

i think the holdman signing is definitely a glass half full/half empty scenario depending upon how you view his abilities

In this case I view the glass as "half full" with a major crack in it.

[redwolf1218]

he could either start and get 100 tackles or be a solid backup. i think he'll start. for depth, we have Clemons, Campbell, Sykes, McCune and some guy named Nick McNeill. whatever happened to Jared Newberry? i cant remember if he was hurt or just got cut. i saw Zack Keasay on the Titans roster.

[The Skinsinator]

In this case I view the glass as "half full" with a major crack in it.LMAO. I wholeheartedly agree. We need depth and we have it I suppose. Holdman played very averagely last season. Frankly, I expected a bit more and I hope to see it in 2006.

[shally]

correct me if i'm wrong, but wasnt Clemons in Cleveland a couple of years ago at the same time Holdman spent a year as the starter there? i think Holdman will win the starting position again this year. he went from Chicago, then injured, to Cleveland, then here, so he really hasnt had much time to recover fully and get totally familiar with a new system. this year he might be in better playing shape with the knee all healed, plus he'll have a year in this system. he really might be a lot better, and he's only 30.

clemons was claimed off our practice squad and signed to the cleveland regular roster. he bounced back to their practice squad and we returned the favor signing him to our regular roster. he has stuck since then.. i do not know how much the cleveland experience effected him.. my guess is not too much

i think that holdman's issues now are mental as much as physical. lindsay about said as much and that was why he was for giving him another chance.

i am not sure how much i agree about that. he sure seemed to get buried at the point on runs when he was in...

[redwolf1218]

clemons was claimed off our practice squad and signed to the cleveland regular roster. he bounced back to their practice squad and we returned the favor signing him to our regular roster. he has stuck since then.. i do not know how much the cleveland experience effected him.. my guess is not too much
i think that holdman's issues now are mental as much as physical. lindsay about said as much and that was why he was for giving him another chance.

i am not sure how much i agree about that. he sure seemed to get buried at the point on runs when he was in...
Clemons:
"I wanted to be here and I didn't want to go anywhere else," he said. "I love the defensive system here and I love the coaches. Even when I was in Cleveland, I was missing it every day. I wanted to be here. These coaches are kind of like father figures for me. I talk to all of them, but Coach Lindsey has given me the most advice on a lot of things because I'm with him most of the time. He was one of the main reasons I decided to come back."

[shally]

Clemons:
"I wanted to be here and I didn't want to go anywhere else," he said. "I love the defensive system here and I love the coaches. Even when I was in Cleveland, I was missing it every day. I wanted to be here. These coaches are kind of like father figures for me. I talk to all of them, but Coach Lindsey has given me the most advice on a lot of things because I'm with him most of the time. He was one of the main reasons I decided to come back."


don't get me wrong, i like clemons and i am glad he is a redskin.. but don't you think if he had stuck on the cleveland regular roster he would be saying the same things about them ?

[shally]

i'm intrigued by this Jashon Sykes guy. sounds like he was pretty incredible in college early on, then had some injuries and entered the draft a year early, which might have been a mistake. he could develop into something special.

http://www.houstonprofootball.com/draft/2002/prospects/sykes.html


like clemons, in that way.. he was advised to stay in college another year and came out against advice...

[Dept_of_Defense]

Thats all great but why was he out of football for a year.

I am very suspect of anyone out of football for a year when there is no injury or reasonable explanation besides not being able to make a squad.
Maybe he's been hanging out with Ricky Williams....

[bgforever]

Maybe he's been hanging out with Ricky Williams....


Man you are so funny! Its almost as if that picture of Portis below is you. :lol1:

[helimech24]

I think Holdman was added just to challenge the young guys and for insurance instead of paying big money to an average LB. GW will try and develop another LB, and Holdman is there just in case. Lets all hope he doesn't play a down,lol.

[redwolf1218]

don't get me wrong, i like clemons and i am glad he is a redskin.. but don't you think if he had stuck on the cleveland regular roster he would be saying the same things about them ?
maybe so, but i dont know. he said he missed it here and loved the coaches. either he is a good con artist or he sincerely loves it here. i have been to Cleveland once and i never want to go back.

[Dept_of_Defense]

Man you are so funny! Its almost as if that picture of Portis below is you. :lol1:
Thanks man I appreciate it.