Redskins owner Snyder says team is focused on future with measured free agency approach

Redskins’ Snyder supports free agency approach

VIENNA, Va. — Dan Snyder’s early verdict on Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen: “Great guys. Lucky to have ‘em.”

In brief remarks to reporters before a charity dinner, the Washington Redskins owner said Thursday night he supports the measured approach to free agency under his new coach and general manager, which differs from his aggressive style of years past.

“It’s really not about the past now,” Snyder said. “It’s really about the future. And when we look at the pedigree of Bruce and Mike and everything that they’ve experienced, we’re in good hands.”

The Redskins have signed three players in the first week of free agency: offensive lineman Artis Hicks, nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu and tight end Sean Ryan. Free agent running back Larry Johnson will meet with Shanahan on Friday.

The Redskins have been known as the champions of the offseason under Snyder, but the owner gave control of the roster to Shanahan when the coach was hired after a 4-12 season.

“We’ve got a game plan. It takes time,” Shanahan said. “And we’ve got a plan. It’s not going to happen overnight. You’ll just have to watch the plan take place.”

Shanahan said he expects 100 percent participation when the offseason conditioning program begins Monday. That includes running back Clinton Portis, whose preference is to stay home in Florida and avoid the extra work.

“Oh, I guarantee you Clinton’ll be there,” Shanahan said. “I know Clinton too well. He’ll be there, and he’ll kick off the offseason on the right note. I want my leaders to be there.”

Shanahan also said he met with cornerback Carlos Rogers, who was hoping to become an unrestricted free agent and find another team. Instead, the Redskins tendered Rogers, making him a restricted free agent.

“It was very positive,” Shanahan said. “I’m a big fan of Carlos, and he will be here for the offseason program.”