Needing help on the defensive line during this 2011 NFL free agency period, the Washington Redskins may have found it very quickly. The team will sign former New York Giants defensive lineman Barry Cofield when free agency opens Friday, according to a report by Denver television anchor Josina Anderson. ESPN's Adam Schefter has confirmed the deal and reports that it is a six-year contract, and 106.7 The Fan's Grant Paulsen reports that the deal is for $36 million, with $12.5 million guaranteed.
Cofield had been linked to the Redskins before, but since he comes from a 4-3 defense in New York, many felt the Redskins would not go after him. If the move is true, perhaps it indicates the Redskins have changed their tune.
Cofield had 40 tackles, four sacks and two forced fumbles in 16 games for the Giants last season as a 4-3 defensive tackle. The 27-year old has a total of 10.5 sacks in his career. A six-year deal would pay him until he turns 33.
For more on NFL free agency, visit our StoryStream listing key 2011 NFL free agents the Redskins could target. For all your NFL free agency rumors, visit that StoryStream. Also, be sure to check out SB Nation's Redskins blog Hogs Haven.