Redskins Sign Shaun Alexander (Merge) *updated*

Alexander is good veteran depth with Betts out up to a month, gives us a proven body as a backup to Portis, he knows the offense and has MUCH better hands than Rock as the primary backup. No downside here.

I thought they were saying 2 weeks for Betts, now it's a month?

Alexander has a chip on his shoulder, and would provide ample depth if Betts is out for an extended period of time. And if it doesn't work out, the Skins can cut their losses and be done with it. If it does work out, the Skins would then have 4 backs who can shoulder the load if need be.

Didn't read all of the posts, but why not Rock for #2? Alexander may be brought in for a #3 anyway. Rock deserves a shot. When given the opportunity he was pretty good.

Alexander has been called soft by our own team. Marcus Washington in so many words called him that after taking him out of that playoff game a couple years ago. I don't think you want a guy like that on your team.

Rock is too valuable on teams I'm guessing. If he were to get hurt we'd be down a backup RB and our primary return man on kicks.

I don't know how anyone can say that Mason is a "proven" runner. What has he proven? That he can run the ball in the PRESEASON against 2nd and 3rd stringers? Has he even touched the ball during the regular season?

I don't know how anyone can say that Mason is a "proven" runner. What has he proven? That he can run the ball in the PRESEASON against 2nd and 3rd stringers? Has he even touched the ball during the regular season?

I think a new poll is in order.

Most overrated preseason Redskins running back:

Sultan McCullough
Marcus Mason

As for Rock, to Matty's point if he goes down we're down not only another running back but our primary kick returner (and keep in mind Betts is usually his main backup on kickoffs, if not Thrash).

As for Alexander, first there's no guarantee he'll be signed. Secondly, if he is what's the harm? He knows the system better than any other back on the team and is only going to be asked to spell Portis for a few plays (if even that).

If you want to look at positives for signing Alexander here they are:

Hungry to prove he can still play
Great on screen passes
Knows coaching staff and most of the system
Cheap signing

This is a bad move. Shaun Alexander has been without a job for awhile and there is a reason why. He sucks. Every team in the NFL has passed on him because he is injury prone and does not run hard anymore. Whatever happened to Marcus Mason? He looked like a Clinton Portis clone in pre-season. The guy deserves a shot and Rock Cartwright deserves the opportunity to move up in the depth chart if Betts is unable to go. Let's not waste time, money or effort on a broke down back. The emphasis should be placed on getting a punter and a wide receiver if Malcolm Kelly is going the injured reserve.

any updates on this and/or the punters?