Times wires
Monday, February 28, 2011
WASHINGTON — The Redskins released running back Clinton Portis on Monday, ending a sometimes contentious seven-year stay that at times made him the face of the franchise.
Injuries and money led to coach Mike Shanahan's decision. The former Hurricane played in 13 games over the past two seasons because of a severe concussion in 2009 and a torn groin muscle in 2010.
Portis, 29, was scheduled to make $8.3 million next season.
"We're going to let him test the market," Shanahan said, "and see what's out there for him."
Portis said he could have restructured his contract, but he said it would be "hard to accept not being the go-guy."
Portis is 77 yards shy of 10,000 career rushing yards and leaves Washington 648 shy of one of his oft-stated goal — Hall of Famer John Riggins' franchise record.
"If the record meant that much, I think I could stay in D.C. to get it," Portis said. "Although I wanted it, I don't think I wanted it bad enough to … continue to endure the area to get it."
Former buc dies: Shawn Lee, a sixth-round Bucs pick who played in Tampa Bay in 1988 and '89, died Saturday at 44. The defensive tackle also played for the Dolphins (1990-91), then six seasons for the Chargers, and ended his career with the Bears in 1998. A memorial service is set for Saturday in Raleigh, N.C.
Bears: Three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Tommie Harris, 27, was released. He struggled in recent years because of injuries.
Jaguars: Quarterback Luke McCown, 29, scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent, signed a one-year deal to remain as an experienced backup to David Garrard.