Returning from a torn ACL, Washington Redskins defensive back DeAngelo knows he’s got to diversify his value to the team.
The Washington Redskins are once again in a building year, and DeAngelo Hall’s chances of being part of that conversation were slim. He wants to be a part of the team this season so much he took a pay cut from making roughly four million to making $2.3 million, per Rich Tandler of CSN Mid-Atlantic.
Some may ponder his reasoning, but it’s not terrible difficult to infer. He’s being realistic about his situation. This isn’t the season he rides off into the sunset. It is a season where he’ll see new, fresh faces that may run a little faster and jump a little higher than him.
Those faces, of course, belong to Su’a Cravens and D.J. Swearinger — they’re for real.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Hall realized his position and presented a different option on his tenure. In other words, without saying it, he remains the leader of the pack, and gave the Redskins a few dollars to make some last-minute deals.
That could be crucial when you consider running back Matt Jones’ situation. He wants out. Any possible trade deal could use the dollars Hall saved the team to bring in another big name. ESPN’s John Keim reported Hall is ready to do what the team needs to make a winning season:
"“I don’t know where I fit in yet, and I don’t know if they know where I fit in yet. But I know when I’m healthy, I can help us win.”"
Hall has been a Redskin since 2008. Besides the 2014 season where he played in only three games (and last season), he’s consistent. He’s flexible, moving from cornerback to safety only a few years ago. Is he banged up? Yes. Is he on the other side of his career? Yes. However, there’s still plenty to offer as a veteran leader.
Next: Washington Redskins: 3 Things to watch at minicamp
As of this week, Tandler also reported that Hall may not be able to participate at Redskins training camp immediately due to a knee issue. You have to still respect his heart for the game, and for the Redskins. He deserves a spot on the roster.