Washington Redskins Reed Doughty wants to stay
Washington Redskins safety Reed Doughty (37) runs back an interception against the New York Giants during the third quarter of a game at MetLife Stadium. The Giants defeated the Redskins 20-6. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Redskins veteran strong safety Reed Doughty will most likely hit the free agent market this offseason, as the team isn’t expected to re-sign him before free agency opens on the 11th. But that doesn’t mean he won’t be back next season, and I think the Redskins would be wise to keep him around for at least another year despite his limited upside. Doughty is a good deal better than the inconsistent duo of Brandon Meriweather and Bacarri Rambo, and he’s a great locker room guy who brings some nice special teams ability to the table.
Doughty recently told Tarik El-Bashir of CSN Washington that he would like to remain with the Redskins organization and then added, “I’m preparing like I’ve always prepared—and I’m all in. I’m preparing mentally and physically. I’ll let my agent and the rest of the teams figure out the business side. I’m anticipating [free agency], but it’s not hanging over my head.”
It’s not surprising to hear that Doughty, one of the team’s most experienced players, would like to stick around, and the 31-year-old should be able to find work as a backup if the Redskins decide to go younger at the position. I think it would be wise to keep him, as he was somewhat productive last season (80 tackles) and brings some experience and versatility to the table. But more importantly, Doughty is cheap, and his relatively low price tag should be appealing to GM Bruce Allen.