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News | Washington Commanders - Commanders.com

Smoot Signs, Returns to the Redskins

The Redskins have signed free agent cornerback Fred Smoot, the team announced on Sunday. The signing ended two busy days of negotiations with Smoot, the former Redskin who played in Washington from 2001-04.

Smoot made his first visit to Redskins Park on Friday afternoon, then joined several Redskins coaches and players in attending the Washington Wizards-Atlanta Hawks basketball game on Friday evening at Verizon Center.

On Saturday morning, Smoot was back at Redskins Park.

At one point, Smoot left to head to the airport for a flight home, but he was quickly summoned back before he got on the plane. A deal was struck on Saturday evening.

Smoot, a six-year NFL veteran, played with the Minnesota Vikings the last two years.

Last season, he started 11-of-14 games for the Vikings, recording 61 tackles (57 solo) and one interception, which he returned 47 yards for a touchdown.

Smoot, 5-11 and 178 pounds, began his NFL career as a second-round draft choice (45th overall) by the Redskins in 2001.

He was an immediate starter for the Redskins, playing opposite Champ Bailey from 2001-03 and Shawn Springs in 2004. He logged a team-high five interceptions in his rookie campaign.

Smoot led the Redskins in interceptions in each of his first three seasons, setting a franchise mark.

For his career, Smoot has 323 tackles (276 solo) and 19 interceptions. He earned the Ed Block Courage Award in 2003 after playing most of the season with a sternum injury.

Smoot left the Redskins for Minnesota via free agency following the 2004 season.

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